Iran Prepares for War with Israel

Iran has conducted a test of the advanced Russian S-400 air defense missile system within its territory, signaling a potential escalation in its military preparations against Israel. The test, reported by Maariv, marks the first known instance of Iran deploying and evaluating this sophisticated weaponry, capable of intercepting a wide range of aerial threats.

According to the report, Iranian soldiers tested the S-400 Triumph system on July 26 in the Isfahan region, likely involving a battery of the systems, a combat control post, radar installations, launchers, and transport vehicles. The S-400 was equipped with 48N6E3 guided anti-aircraft missiles, designed to counter various aerial threats. Sources in Isfahan noted increased radar emissions, indirectly indicating military exercises, with regional military analysts dubbing this "the first test of the S-400 air defense system." The Iranian Ministry of Defense has not officially confirmed or documented the test.

This development comes amidst revelations by Seyed Hossein Mousavian, former Iranian Ambassador to Germany, that Moscow refused to supply Tehran with the S-400, despite Iran's long-standing threats from nuclear powers like the U.S. and Israel. Mousavian highlighted Russia's decision to offer the S-400 and Su-35 fighter jets to U.S. allies like India, suggesting a strategic calculus that prioritizes other partnerships. However, the test suggests Iran may have accessed the system through other means, possibly as a sales demonstration by Russian space forces.

Iran's test of the S-400, if confirmed, could significantly alter the military balance in the region. The system, known for its advanced capabilities, was previously supplied to Iran in a less advanced form (S-300) in 2016 after a billion-dollar payment. The current test, occurring as Russia and Israel discuss Middle East stability, including Syria's sovereignty, adds another layer of complexity. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing support for diplomatic solutions to the Iranian nuclear program, amidst ongoing conflicts.

There's also the issue of Iran being humiliated in the recent 12-day war with Israel, assisted by Trump and US B-2's striking key nuclear facilities in Iran. There are rumors that they have become obsessed with the concept of avenging themselves, even as basic infrastructure in their country collapses.