Iran’s Armed Proxy Forces: History and Role in the Region
Iran has long relied on armed proxy forces to counter the threat posed by more advanced weapons in the region. These militias, armed and supported by the Islamic Republic, play a crucial role in Iran’s military strategy. Let’s delve into the history of Iran’s armed militias, their regional allies, and the potential consequences of their actions.
Origins of Iran’s Armed Proxy Forces
Iran’s policy of arming militias dates back to the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. With the halt of major weapons shipments from the United States and the destruction of its arsenal during the Iran-Iraq war, Iran turned to militias as an asymmetric threat. These militias serve as a tool to counter the advanced weaponry possessed by Israel and U.S.-aligned Gulf Arab states.
Iran’s Regional Allies and Militias
Iran’s support for armed groups in the region includes Lebanese Hezbollah, Iraqi militias like the Popular Mobilization Forces, Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, and the Yemeni Houthi rebels. These militias, managed by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, form the “Axis of Resistance” against perceived external threats. Each group plays a critical role in Iran’s regional ambitions.
Potential Retaliatory Strikes and Consequences
In light of recent events, including the alleged assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Iran has threatened retaliation. These retaliatory strikes could involve a coordinated effort by Iran and its allied militias to target Israel. The consequences of such an attack could escalate tensions in the region and lead to a wider conflict.
Overall, Iran’s armed proxy forces and their regional allies continue to shape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, with the potential for further conflict and instability.
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