Iran’s response to the recent killing of a top Hamas leader in Gaza by Israel has been surprisingly measured and restrained. Despite widespread outrage and calls for retaliation from various factions within the country, including the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran has so far refrained from launching a direct military response against Israel.
There are several reasons why Iran may have chosen to wait before retaliating against Israel for the killing of Hamas leader Abu Obaida. Firstly, Iran is currently engaged in delicate negotiations with world powers over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Any hasty or aggressive action against Israel could jeopardize these negotiations and further isolate Iran on the international stage.
Secondly, Iran is already facing a host of challenges on multiple fronts, including economic sanctions, internal political unrest, and ongoing military conflicts in the region. A direct confrontation with Israel, a close ally of the United States, could escalate into a full-blown war that Iran can ill afford at this time.
Furthermore, Iran may be biding its time and carefully planning its response to maximize its impact and minimize the risk of a wider conflict. The IRGC, which oversees Iran’s military operations abroad, is known for its strategic patience and meticulous planning. It is possible that Iran is waiting for the right opportunity to strike back at Israel in a way that sends a clear message without escalating tensions further.
Additionally, Iran may be using this incident to rally support and solidarity among its allies and proxies in the region, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. By demonstrating restraint and avoiding a knee-jerk reaction, Iran may be positioning itself as a responsible and measured actor in the eyes of its allies and the broader Muslim world.
Overall, Iran’s decision to wait before retaliating against Israel for the killing of Hamas leader Abu Obaida reflects a calculated strategy aimed at avoiding further escalation and preserving its broader strategic interests. While the situation remains fluid and tensions are high, Iran’s measured response may ultimately serve to de-escalate the situation and prevent a wider conflict in the region.