In a bold move on 26 October 2024, Israel conducted airstrikes in Iran, targeting facilities involved in missile production and remnants of its nuclear weapons programme. These targeted strikes have raised international concerns regarding regional security and Iran’s capabilities.
Details of the Airstrikes
According to assessments from David Albright, a former UN weapons inspector, and Decker Eveleth from CNA, multiple strike waves hit the Parchin military complex, located near Tehran. Satellite imagery from Planet Labs confirmed that the Israeli military targeted buildings used for mixing solid fuel for ballistic missiles.
- Strikes were reported to have targeted:
- Three ballistic missile mixing buildings at Parchin.
- Two facilities at Khojir, a missile production site.
Mr Eveleth stated that the strikes may considerably hinder Iran’s missile production capabilities, marking a significant tactical victory for Israel.
Impact on Iran’s Missile Arsenal
The Israeli airstrikes followed an earlier missile barrage from Iran on 1 October, which involved over 200 missiles aimed at Israel. The quick retaliation by the Israeli Air Force demonstrates a determined stance against threats from Tehran.
Albright noted that facilities hit during the strikes had the potential to support not only conventional military capabilities but could also facilitate future nuclear weapons-related activities, underlining the multifaceted nature of the threat.
Ongoing Tensions
Iran maintains that its nuclear programme is peaceful, claiming it was shuttered in 2003. Nevertheless, the complexity of its military operations has drawn scepticism from international observers. Recent intelligence suggests Iran has the largest missile arsenal in the Middle East, and its ties with Russia have also raised alarms regarding the transfer of military technology.
- Iran’s missile capabilities are a concern for:
- Regional stability.
- International alliances, particularly in relation to Russia and Houthi rebels in Yemen.
As the situation unfolds, both Israel and Iran appear to remain on edge, with each side viewing the other’s actions as a direct challenge to their national security.