Iran Reportedly Preparing Attack on Israel Using Drones and Missiles from Iraq

Israeli intelligence indicates that Iran may be preparing an attack on Israel from Iraqi territory in the coming days, using a combination of drones and ballistic missiles, according to a report by Axios.

The report, citing two unnamed Israeli sources, suggests the strike could occur before the U.S. presidential election on November 5.

The potential strike, to be launched from Iraq, may involve large numbers of drones and missiles operated by pro-Iranian militias.

According to analysts, using Iraqi territory and militia forces could allow Iran to avoid direct responsibility and reduce the likelihood of retaliatory strikes on its own territory.

This approach would align with Iran’s previous strategies of utilising allied groups across the region to advance its interests while maintaining plausible deniability.

Later on Thursday, a New York Times report, citing three Iranian sources, stated that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had ordered Iran’s Supreme National Security Council to prepare for an attack on Israel. This directive reportedly came on Monday after an assessment of recent damage inflicted on Iran’s missile production and air defense systems due to Israeli airstrikes.

Khamenei’s decision followed reports of significant losses in Iranian defense capabilities, according to the New York Times report.

Last week, Israel reportedly conducted a strike that compromised parts of Iran’s missile production infrastructure and air defence systems. The apparent move to involve Iraqi militias may be an attempt by Tehran to retaliate indirectly while avoiding further direct conflict with Israel on its soil.

The evolving situation highlights the complex interplay of regional power struggles, with Iran and Israel frequently engaging in a shadow war involving proxy forces and indirect confrontations.

Should an attack from Iraq materialise, Israel is expected to respond forcefully, potentially targeting Iranian interests across Iraq or Syria.

The timing of the potential attack, ahead of the U.S. election, could carry geopolitical implications, likely drawing attention from U.S. officials given the close U.S.-Israel alliance.