Iran Plans Major Retaliatory Strike From Iraq: Israeli Officials

According to a report from Axios on Thursday, Iran is allegedly preparing a significant retaliation in response to the Israeli aerial attack which occurred in the early hours of last Saturday. Israel's strikes on missile and military facilities were a response to the October 1st ballistic missile attack.

Anticipated Iranian Attack

Despite many regional observers believing that tensions have cooled down, as evidenced by declining oil prices this week, the Axios report cites two Israeli officials stating that Israeli intelligence suggests Iran is planning to attack Israel from Iraqi territory in the coming days, possibly before the US presidential election. The officials suggest that the attack could involve a large number of drones and ballistic missiles. Throughout the Gaza war, Iran-backed paramilitary units in Iraq have launched sporadic drones, but nothing on a major scale.

Movement of Ballistic Missiles

On Thursday, Israeli sources suggested that Iran is moving ballistic missiles in preparation for such an attack. Additionally, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander, Hossein Salami, has been quoted saying that Iran's response will be "different from any scenario" Israel might expect.

Reports of Fresh Threats

CNN has also reported on these fresh threats, writing on Wednesday that a high-ranking source told them Iran’s recent attacks on Iran will be met with a “definitive and painful” response that will likely come before the US presidential vote. This marks a departure from Iran’s initial attempts to downplay the severity of the strikes carried out by Israel on October 25, which was the first time Israel has openly acknowledged striking Iranian targets.

Response from Iraq

Meanwhile, the Iraqi government has expressed anger over Israeli warplanes violating its airspace during last weekend's attack. It has lodged an official protest note with the United Nations about the illegal breach. It has been reported that around one hundred Israeli jets used in the attack fired on Iran from over neighboring Iraqi airspace. This tactic has long been utilized by the Israeli Air Force in attacking Syria, as it typically fires from over undefended Lebanese airspace.

Potential Impact on Ceasefire Negotiations

At present, US and Israeli negotiators say they are close to achieving a ceasefire with Hezbollah. However, any new large-scale attack from the 'Iranian axis' could potentially jeopardize such a deal.

Bottom Line

The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, and the potential for a significant retaliatory attack from Iran, raises many questions about the stability of the region and the future of international relations. What are your thoughts on this development? Feel free to share this article with friends and engage in a discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.