What’s happening
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran attributed a deadly attack by Hamas on Israel to the 2020 killing of the former head of IRGC’s Quds Force, Qassem Soleimani. Hamas, however, has denied this motivation, insisting its actions were to defend the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Why it matters
This significant accusation potentially reveals a retaliatory aspect and underscores Iran’s ongoing conflicts with Israel. It could also indicate a deepening of the proxy dynamics in regional conflicts.
The details
Iran’s IRGC has referenced the destructive October 7th attack by Hamas on Israel as a reprisal for the assassination of Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani by a US drone strike two years prior. The claim comes in tandem with the recent killing of Brig. Gen. Razi Mousavi in a strike in Damascus, which Tehran blames on Israel. Mousavi was said to be vital in coordinating military efforts between Iran and Syria and was heavily involved in funneling arms to regional proxies.
Response and Denial
The IRGC vowed to retaliate “at the right time and place” for their officer’s assassination. Nevertheless, Hamas explicitly denied connection to the IRGC’s claims, reaffirming that its operations, particularly the attack named “Operation Al-Aqsa Deluge,” were in response to perceived Israeli aggressions against the holy sanctuary.
On the Ground Consequences
The October 7 attacks led by Hamas penetrated Israel’s border defenses, resulting in over 1200 civilian casualties and multiple abductions. Israel responded forcefully aiming to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages, while concurrently facing Hezbollah assaults on its northern frontier.
Backdropping Tensions
Iran remains a pivotal player allegedly bolstering Hamas, evident from reports of military training in Iran prior to the attack. Tehran continues to pronounce its intentions to retaliate for Mousavi, paralleling similar aftermath reactions following Soleimani’s assassination. The situation points to unresolved tensions and the potential saga of reprisals which could destabilize the region further.
Big Picture
This unfolding narrative is situated within the broader context of Iranian influence and proxy strategies across the Middle East, particularly against the backdrop of Tehran’s adversarial relationship with Israel. The line between state-orchestrated moves and militant groups’ independent resolutions continue to blur, raising concerns about escalating conflict dynamics and regional instability.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.