Feb 16 • 17:56 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Political Analyst: Israel Seeks to Involve Washington in a Confrontation with Iran

Political analyst Marwan Kablane predicts that Israel aims to involve the U.S. in a potential confrontation with Iran, taking a supporting role unlike previous military engagements.

Political analyst Marwan Kablane from the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies has suggested that Israel may seek to position the United States at the forefront of any potential confrontation with Iran. Unlike previous conflicts where Israel bore a significant portion of the military burden, Kablane anticipates that Israel would take on a supportive role while relying on Washington to lead any military response. This shifting dynamic highlights Israel's strategic desire to utilize the U.S. military capabilities and resources while minimizing its own direct involvement.

Kablane further elaborated on the possibility of war during his appearance on Al Jazeera's "Ninth" program, indicating that while Washington favors a decisive and swift military action, Iran has threatened to broaden the scope of any confrontation right from the outset to prevent a quick resolution. He compared the current situation to a game of 'chicken,' where the odds of war and peace are roughly equal due to mutual pressure tactics being employed by both sides. This precarious balance increases the risk of miscalculation, as both nations navigate their strategic interests in the region amidst rising tensions.

In discussing military comparisons, Kablane acknowledged that conventional military capabilities favor the United States, particularly in terms of budget and technology. However, he highlighted two critical cards in Iran's hand: its ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and its substantial ballistic missile inventory, estimated at around 2,000 missiles, some of which may circumvent Israeli and American defenses. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, while a tactical advantage for Iran, also poses significant risks and challenges, underscoring the complexity of any military action in the region.

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