The recent direct military confrontation between Iran and Israel has drawn attention to Iran’s armed forces. Earlier this month, Israel launched an attack on a building in Iran’s diplomatic compound in Damascus, Syria, resulting in the deaths of seven senior Iranian commanders and military personnel.
Iran promised retaliation and, about two weeks later, initiated a widespread aerial assault on Israel involving hundreds of drones and missiles targeting areas within Israel and its controlled territories.
This has put a spotlight on Iran’s military capabilities.
Why is Iran’s military relevant right now?
Israeli officials had previously stated that any attack from Iran would be met with a counterattack, potentially leading to further retaliation and escalating into a larger regional conflict. There is a possibility that such a conflict could involve the United States, although Washington has denied involvement in the Damascus attack.
Analysts suggest that Iran’s adversaries, particularly the United States and Israel, have refrained from direct military strikes on Iran for years, recognizing the complexity of Tehran’s military capabilities. Instead, they have engaged in a prolonged shadow war through various means.
According to Afshon Ostovar, an expert on Iran’s military, there is a reluctance to engage in a war with Iran due to the serious nature of such a conflict.
What sort of military threat does Iran pose?
Iran’s armed forces are among the largest in the Middle East, with a significant number of active-duty and reserve personnel. They consist of separate army and Guards units with various ground, air, and naval capabilities.
The Guards oversee the Quds Force, responsible for supporting proxy militias across the Middle East, forming what is known as the “axis of resistance.”
The supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, serves as the commander in chief of Iran’s armed forces and holds authority over major decisions.
What kinds of weapons does Iran have?
Iran’s military strategy focuses on deterrence through the development of precision missiles, drones, and air defenses. They possess a significant arsenal of ballistic missiles, drones, and other advanced weaponry.
Iran faces challenges in acquiring high-tech weaponry due to international sanctions, which have led them to develop a domestic weapons industry. Their air force is considered a weak point, with outdated aircraft and limited naval capabilities.
Will Israel’s attack disrupt Iran’s military?
The recent assassinations of senior military officials may temporarily impact Iran’s regional operations, but the chain of command within the armed forces remains intact.
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