Israel-Iran Conflict: Second Phase of Air Assault
Overview
Israel's military campaign in Iran is progressing into a second phase, focusing on underground ballistic missile sites. The collaboration with the US aims to neutralize Iran's capability of launching aerial attacks.
First Phase Achievements
- Joint air strikes with the US have already attacked surface missile launchers in Iran.
- Operations have taken control of much of Iran's airspace.
- Focus has been on Iranian leadership and missile capabilities.
Second Phase Objectives
- Targeting underground bunkers storing ballistic missiles and related equipment.
- Aim to end Iran's capacity to launch aerial attacks by war's end.
Iran's Response and Capabilities
- Tehran continues missile attacks across the region.
- Estimates of Iran's missile stockpile vary, critical to war's progression.
- The International Institute for Strategic Studies notes Iran still has land-attack cruise missiles.
Military Actions and Tactics
- Israeli jets have conducted constant sorties, hitting targets in both Iran and Lebanon.
- Decreased ballistic missile and drone launches from Iran observed.
Strategic Implications
There is a hope that initial strikes will cause Iran's ruling system to disintegrate quickly, although this has not yet occurred. Continuous degradation of Iran's military system is deemed necessary.
