Iran’s Hidden Threat Exposed: Why Israel’s War Is Far From Over
Israel’s military campaign against Iran, detailed through Operation Am Kalbi, reveals significant intelligence successes and ongoing threats, as explained by former NSC head Giora Eiland. The conflict’s outcome hinges on precise military operations and the potential for decisive U.S. involvement.
In an exclusive interview with Yishai Cohen on Kikar Shabbat, Major General (Res.) Giora Eiland, former head of Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) and Operations Directorate, provided a detailed analysis of Israel’s ongoing conflict with Iran. Eiland addressed the dramatic military operation, the persistent dangers posed by Iran, and the critical role of international involvement, particularly from the United States.
Eiland began by reflecting on the initial fears surrounding Israel’s home front vulnerabilities before the war began. He noted that while pre-war estimates anticipated a higher casualty toll, Iran’s capabilities should not be underestimated. “We expected more significant losses, but this doesn’t mean we can dismiss Iran’s potential for devastating attacks in the future,” he cautioned, emphasizing the need for vigilance as the conflict continues.
Delving into the objectives of Israel’s operation, Eiland highlighted the intelligence breakthroughs that exposed critical Iranian targets. However, he stressed that the core threat from Iran remains intact. “The true danger, the strategic assets that give Iran its edge, has not yet been neutralized,” he explained, underscoring the complexity of dismantling Iran’s military infrastructure.
Eiland praised the precision and coordination of Israel’s opening strike in Operation Rising Lion, which involved hundreds of fighter jets executing a synchronized assault. “The success of this strike was the result of meticulous planning and flawless execution,” he said, describing the operation as a historic achievement. He also addressed speculation about U.S. President Donald Trump's potential involvement, specifically whether Trump might order an attack on Iran’s central nuclear facility in Pardo region. Eiland suggested that U.S. involvement, both militarily and diplomatically, could prove decisive. “The Trump administration’s stance will heavily influence the trajectory of this campaign,” he noted, pointing to the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
The interview also touched on Iran’s regional influence, particularly through proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, which continue to challenge Israel’s security. Eiland’s analysis underscored the multifaceted nature of the conflict, requiring Israel to balance immediate military objectives with long-term strategic goals.