August 12, 2024

As Israel reportedly assessed on Sunday that Iran's retaliation could occur "in the coming days," experts said on Monday that Tehran has to strike a difficult balance, as it is expected to seek revenge on Israel while also treading carefully to prevent the situation from spiraling into a regional conflict, particularly to avoid a direct confrontation with the US.

According to the Times of Israel on Sunday, Israel's current assessment is that "Iran will launch a direct attack on the country" in response to the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the coming days. The attack may occur before ceasefire-hostage deal talks scheduled for Thursday, the report said, citing sources.

The Israeli media outlet also said the issue is divisive within Iran, as President Masoud Pezeshkian wants to "avoid a harsh response," while the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps wants to "launch a larger attack" than it did in April.

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