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JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images
- Israel is contemplating its response after Iran’s missile barrage on Tuesday.
- Analysts indicate that Israel’s counteraction could economically target Iran’s oil infrastructure.
- Some experts propose that key Iranian figures might be targeted instead of energy assets.
In the wake of an aggressive missile assault by Iran involving nearly 200 projectiles, Israel is deliberating its next steps. The attack occurred on Tuesday and has raised significant concerns about regional stability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu quickly vowed to retaliate, asserting that Iran “will pay” for what he termed a grave error. The international community now watches closely as tensions escalate.
The financial markets reacted negatively, with global stock indices declining and oil prices surging as investors brace for potential wider conflict in the Middle East. Analysts predict that a military response could occur within days; however, specifics regarding timing and scale remain uncertain.
The fear among observers is that an assertive Israeli response may exceed previous actions. Shahram Akbarzadeh, a professor specializing in Middle Eastern politics at Deakin University in Australia, noted that Netanyahu has long advocated for strikes against Iran and may now have justification to involve the United States further into this conflict.
Targeting Oil Infrastructure
A primary focus of potential Israeli retaliation could be aimed at disrupting Iran’s oil production capabilities. Currently producing approximately 3.2 million barrels per day—accounting for around 3% of global supply—Iran’s oil sector represents a critical economic asset vulnerable to military action.
Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the Biden administration and Israel to deliver a decisive blow against Iranian refining capabilities. He stated unequivocally that ”Iran’s refineries should be hit hard.”
An insider familiar with ongoing discussions revealed to the Financial Times that targeting these facilities is gaining traction among decision-makers in Jerusalem.
Reuters
The rise in oil prices continues unabated; Brent crude futures increased by $1.41 (1.91%) reaching $75.31 per barrel while West Texas Intermediate rose by $1.45 (2.07%) settling at $71.55 according to Reuters reports from Thursday morning.[source]
Assassination Strategies Considered
A number of Israeli officials have indicated through Axios reports that targeted assassinations are also under consideration as part of their strategic options against Iranian leadership or military personnel involved in orchestrating attacks against Israel.
Beni Sabti from Tel Aviv’s Institute of National Security Studies remarked on this strategy but noted it would likely not extend directly towards Ayatollah Ali Khamenei himself; rather it might focus on members within his Revolutionary Guard or close advisors who play pivotal roles within his regime.
“If they are eliminated,” he explained, “the leader loses significant power.”
Nuclear Facilities Under Scrutiny
A former prime minister Naftali Bennett suggested leveraging this momentous occasion as an opportunity to launch extensive operations targeting Iran’s nuclear program—a sentiment echoed by many who believe such actions could reshape geopolitical dynamics significantly.
“This is our greatest chance in half a century,” Bennett expressed via social media platforms advocating immediate action against nuclear sites crucial to Tehran’s ambitions.
Meanwhile Lt Gen Herzi Halevi confirmed capabilities exist within IDF ranks allowing strikes across any point throughout the region according to statements made during recent interviews with various news outlets including The Guardian.
Potential Military Base Targets
Another avenue available involves striking bases utilized during missile launches directed towards Israeli territory . Farzan Sabet ,an expert affiliated with Geneva Graduate Institute ,suggested possible targets include drone facilities linked directly back those responsible attacks . However ,he cautioned coordination efforts must prioritize larger scale operations encompassing both leadership sites alongside nuclear installations . “We’re already witnessing elements indicative regional warfare unfolding before us ” Sabet concluded emphasizing importance forthcoming decisions determining escalation levels moving forward .
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