Iran has vowed to retaliate against Israel for the alleged assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in its territory. The predawn airstrike against Haniyeh has sent shockwaves across the Middle East, with Tehran threatening to respond in kind. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Israel would receive a response for its crimes and insolence, hinting at the use of regional militias and allies.
Iran has a history of arming militias and allies in the Middle East, which it could potentially call upon for a strike against Israel. Groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, Iraqi militias, Palestinian militant forces, and Yemen’s Houthi rebels have all received support from Iran. These groups pose a threat to Israel with their weaponry and capabilities.
Israel remains wary of Hezbollah, particularly due to its vast arsenal of rockets and missiles, estimated at 150,000. Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have also targeted US personnel in Iraq, leading to US airstrikes in response. Palestinian militant forces like Hamas and Islamic Jihad have received support from Iran, despite being Sunni.
The Houthi rebels in Yemen, with Iran’s support, have been able to launch drone and missile attacks disrupting shipping in the Red Sea corridor and reaching Israel. There is speculation that Iran could launch a retaliatory strike similar to the one in April when 170 bomb-carrying drones and other projectiles were launched towards Israel. Experts fear that such an assault could escalate into a wider regional war.
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