Optimism for De-escalation Amidst Carefully Calibrated Actions
The geopolitical landscape in the Middle East shifted over the weekend as Irán lanzó un importante ataque contra Israel, marking the largest offensive Tehran has executed in recent times. This move follows a series of drone attacks on Saudi oil refineries in 2019 and Iraqi air bases in 2020, which were responses to the assassination of Qassem Suleimani. The attack was anticipated as a form of retaliation for the recent bombing of the Iranian consulate in Damascus, signaling to both domestic and international audiences that Israel had crossed certain boundaries.
Despite the tensions, there is a
US officials noted to Foreign Policy that “The drones that Iran chose to launch at Israel included slower-moving drones designed for tactical use,” suggesting that Iran intentionally moderated its response to prevent further escalation. Moreover, Iran’s early notification about the attack gave Israel and its allies sufficient time to bolster their air defenses, hinting at a deliberate effort to minimize risks of escalation.
Professor Kostas Yfantis of International Relations at Panteion University shared with MEGA Greece that
Rational thinking suggests that Iran is unlikely to escalate further, considering the severe repercussions it would face. Nevertheless, the situation remains delicate with two regional powers at odds: one fighting for survival and the other contending with numerous adversaries. Such dynamics necessitate continued vigilance from authorities and security forces in anticipation of potential developments following the Iran attack, retaliation, and hopes for de-escalation.
