Jerusalem, October 2024 — A recent poll conducted by Channel 14 reveals that 54% of Israelis believe the only effective way to achieve “victory” over Iran is through a direct assault on the country’s nuclear facilities. This sentiment reflects growing concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions amid escalating tensions in the region.
In an interview, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak suggested that Israel may conduct a large-scale airstrike targeting Iran’s oil industry, as well as a symbolic strike on military facilities related to its nuclear program. Barak expressed that it is too late to significantly impede Tehran’s nuclear efforts and emphasized the need for a robust Israeli military response following Iran’s recent missile attack, which involved over 180 ballistic missiles—most of which were intercepted, though some struck populated areas and military bases in Israel.
Also Read: EU Imposes Sanctions on Iran Over Missile Transfers to Russia
“There is a compelling need, even an imperative, for Israel to respond,” Barak stated, asserting that no sovereign nation could overlook such an attack. He pointed to Israel’s recent airstrikes against Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen as a potential model for its response to Iran.
Barak speculated that the Israeli response might involve multiple and significant strikes, drawing parallels with the recent military actions in Yemen. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged discussions in Washington regarding a possible Israeli assault on Iran’s oil sector but did not provide specific details or clarify the level of U.S. support for such actions.
As tensions continue to rise, the potential for military engagement remains a focal point of concern for both Israeli officials and the international community.
Key Points:
- Poll Results: A Channel 14 poll indicates that 54% of Israelis support a direct attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities to achieve “victory” over the Islamic Republic.
- Ehud Barak’s Predictions: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak suggests that Israel may launch large-scale airstrikes against Iran’s oil industry and conduct symbolic attacks on military targets related to its nuclear program.
- Response to Iranian Attacks: Barak emphasizes the necessity of a military response following Iran’s recent missile strikes, which involved over 180 ballistic missiles, some landing near populated areas in Israel.
- Comparison to Recent Strikes: Barak draws parallels to Israel’s recent airstrikes against Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, suggesting a similar approach could be taken against Iran.
- U.S. Position: President Joe Biden has confirmed that discussions are ongoing in Washington regarding a potential Israeli attack on Iran’s oil sector, though specifics and the level of U.S. support remain unclear.
