Gen. Keane: The damage to Iran is beyond what's being reported
News & Politics
Introduction
A new Fox News Alert has emerged detailing a retaliatory threat from Iran, just days following Israel's counter-strike against the regime. The Ayatollah has stated that last Saturday's IDF strike was "too big to ignore," suggesting that Iran could deliver on its threats before the upcoming U.S. elections. Sources from Iran added that the response of the Islamic Republic to what they refer to as the "Zionist regime's aggression" will be both "definitive and painful."
Retired four-star General Jack Keane, senior strategic analyst for Fox News and chairman of the Institute for the Study of War, commented on the implications of the recent military actions. He noted that Israel's recent airstrike had significant military effects, which go beyond what is being reported. The Israeli forces reportedly took down a majority of the Russian S-300 air defense systems that Iran had acquired, leaving the regime vulnerable by removing a critical protective barrier for strategic assets, including their nuclear facilities and missile production capabilities.
Keane emphasized that Iran is now left "essentially naked" in terms of defense, knowing that a substantial retaliatory attack on Israel could invite severe repercussions. He believes that any significant attack could have broader economic impacts on Iran and that while military targets might be at risk, critical nuclear facilities likely would not be struck due to the necessity of U.S. support in undertaking significant damage.
The conversation also touched on Iran’s potential strategy, mentioning that they might use Iraq as a launching point for attacks. However, this would not significantly change the scenario from Israel's perspective, as the coordination and execution would still stem from Iranian leadership. The general described Iran's situation as precarious and questioned whether their threats would culminate in action or remain mere bluster.
Switching gears, the discussion addressed the involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict. Recent reports suggest that between 8,000 and 10,000 North Korean soldiers are now on the battlefield, allegedly fighting for Russia. General Keane pointed out that these North Korean forces lack battle experience, and the quality of their training remains uncertain. The troops deployed are presumed to be among the elite forces, but their effectiveness in the conflict is doubtful.
He argued that while Russian forces seek reinforcements due to significant casualties—reportedly 30,000 killed and wounded in just October—the addition of North Korean troops is unlikely to make a decisive difference in Russia's overall military efforts in Ukraine.
Keane concluded the discussion by emphasizing the need to monitor the situation closely, including what benefits Russia could provide to North Korea in exchange for their involvement in the conflict, such as enhanced cyber-intelligence capabilities.
Keywords
Iran, Israel, counter-strike, Ayatollah, military effects, S-300 air defense system, nuclear facilities, North Korea, Russia, battlefield, economic impact, vulnerability.
FAQ
Q: What prompted the Iranian threat against Israel?
A: The threat was motivated by a significant Israeli counter-strike that the Ayatollah stated was "too big to ignore."
Q: How has the military situation affected Iran's defense capabilities?
A: The Israeli airstrike reportedly destroyed much of Iran's Russian-supplied S-300 air defense systems, leaving them exposed and vulnerable.
Q: What implications could an Iranian attack on Israel have?
A: A significant Iranian attack could lead to considerable economic and military repercussions for Iran, especially given its current vulnerability.
Q: What role are North Korean troops playing in the conflict?
A: Between 8,000 and 10,000 North Korean troops are reported to be in Ukraine fighting for Russia, though their effectiveness is questioned due to a lack of battle experience.
Q: What potential aid could Russia be providing to North Korea?
A: Russia might provide North Korea with advanced cyber-intelligence and military resources to enhance their capabilities in the conflict.