Israel Prepares for Retaliatory Attack Amid Fears of Iranian Kamikaze Drones

tel aviv - Israel is facing challenges in defending the country against potential large-scale counterattacks, as the supply of defense ammunition is running low.

Israeli weapon manufacturers are working around the clock to provide various air defense systems with interceptors. Since October 7, more than 23,000 projectiles have been fired at the country, depleting the supply of defense ammunition. The United States is also supplying defense missiles, but is struggling to keep up with the demand. 'We are approaching a turning point,' says former defense official Dana Stroul. 'Israel's ammunition problem is serious.' Israel's defense is at risk of being overwhelmed if Iran responds to an Israeli attack and Hezbollah joins in.

Iran's recent attack saw some of the over 180 rockets bypass the defense system and hit targets in Israel. The military had to prioritize defending certain cities and facilities due to the magnitude of the barrage. The situation may become even more challenging if Iran launches a larger number of rockets.

As a response, the United States is sending the THAAD, an advanced air defense system expected to arrive in Israel by Tuesday. It could be operational within 24 hours. Israeli media anticipate a retaliatory attack on Iran shortly after, despite the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles beginning Wednesday evening.

An Israeli official told the Washington Post that a military operation is planned before the November 5 U.S. presidential elections. Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly informed Joe Biden in a recent phone call that Israel intends to target only military sites in Iran. Biden is against Israel targeting Iran's oil or nuclear facilities, concerned about the risk of a major war and a spike in oil prices.

Israel aims to ensure that the attack on Iran does not impact the U.S. election. However, many in Israel prefer a victory for Donald Trump. Despite their support for Israel since October 7, Biden and Harris are still viewed by some as obstacles, particularly regarding previous invasions.

Israel faces a dilemma: it wants to restore deterrence against Iran without escalating into a major war. In a previous Iranian attack in April, Israel held back under pressure from Biden. Now, Israel seeks to send a clear message to Iran.

The military is concerned about Iranian retaliatory missiles and the increasing threat from small drones claiming lives in Israel. These drones, used by pro-Iranian militias, have caused casualties, including an attack that killed four Israeli soldiers this week. Since October 7, around 1200 drones have been fired at Israel, with 221 landing on Israeli soil. Drones pose a challenge as they are difficult to detect and intercept, unlike missiles.

Israel has decided to enhance its air raid alarm system following recent drone attacks. Although false alarms may increase, the priority is to neutralize Hezbollah's drone unit. Most drones used by the Lebanese group originate in Iran, also supplied to Russian forces in Ukraine by Tehran.