US Operation Against Iran: Weapons and Potential Targets

A potential new US operation against Iran could involve cruise missiles, stand-off weapons, and drones, according to an analysis. While such a military strike would send a strong message, its political effectiveness remains questionable.

Unlike nuclear facilities, the structures supporting Iran's security apparatus are largely located within cities, including command centers, security bases, communication facilities, and economic hubs. This increases the potential for collateral damage.

An alternative operational field concerns the regime's economic power base, including infrastructure related to trade networks, energy revenues, and financial mechanisms. Economic pressure, however, can have unforeseen political consequences.

At the operational level, the range of potential targets favors the use of stand-off weapons, such as Tomahawk cruise missiles, JASSM, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The operation, if carried out, would be designed as a short raid, without prolonged presence or ground engagement.

The open question is whether such an action can change the dynamics within Iran without reinforcing the narrative of an external threat.