By Henry Gabriel
Avi Melamed, a former Israeli intelligence official and regional analyst, has revealed that the Israeli armed forces are formulating a strategy to respond to the 180 ballistic missiles launched into its territory by Iran.
According to the intelligence official, Israel’s response will be targeted, particularly focusing on entities affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Melamed, who previously served as a deputy and then as a senior adviser on Arab affairs to Jerusalem’s mayors Teddy Kollek and Ehud Olmert, engaged as a negotiator during both the first and second intifadas.
In an email regarding the current situation in the Middle East, Melamed stated that Israel is developing its strategy in light of last week’s Iranian assault, and it increasingly appears likely that the nation will seek to execute a significant strike against an IRGC-affiliated target.
At present, it seems that Israel is finalising its operational plans, whilst the United States prepares munitions to defensively counter any potential Iranian retaliation.
Melamed remarked, “As Israel develops its strategy in response to last week’s Iranian attack, it increasingly seems probable that the country will aim for a substantial strike against an IRGC-affiliated target.”
He further noted, “This matter likely arose during today’s visit by CENTCOM Commander General Michael E. Kurilla and is expected to be a pivotal topic of discussion between Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and U.S. officials later this week.”
“Israel’s response must strike a balance between demonstrating military strength and the imperative to avoid further escalation of tensions, which could result in a cycle of missile exchanges,” he cautioned.
Expounding on the situation, he added that the launch of over 180 ballistic missiles by Tehran necessitates a decisive reaction to deter future assaults.
“Currently, it appears that Israel is finalising its operational plans while the U.S. prepares munitions to defensively counter any potential Iranian counterstrike,” he concluded.
