Residents in Isfahan, Iran, cheered Iranian rockets fired into Israel, only to be jolted by Israeli strikes just a week later. Early last Friday, Israeli strikes triggered air defense systems in Isfahan and Tabriz after three explosions near a military airbase close to Isfahan. The strikes inflicted unclear damage, with Iran reporting no casualties. Analysts noted that the strikes demonstrated Israel’s ability to bypass Iran’s air defense, raising questions about the reliability of Iran’s defenses given Isfahan’s central role in the regime’s illicit atomic weapons program.
Isfahan is a key location for Israeli forces due to its significance in Iran’s missile production and atomic weapons program. This area is where powerful Shahab medium-range missiles are made, and it serves as a testing ground for missile systems capable of reaching Israel. Israeli strikes against Iran are typically ambiguous to avoid leaving fingerprints on the missions, as seen in a drone strike allegedly targeting a weapons factory in Isfahan in January 2023. The recent strikes were seen as retaliation for previous attacks, with Israel sending a message of “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” to Tehran’s rulers.
Isfahan is also known for its antisemitism and Holocaust denial, with officials promoting the destruction of Israel at events like Al-Quds day. The city has been a focal point for the regime’s military and nuclear activities, with rockets fired at Israel reportedly originating from bases in Isfahan. Dissidents and experts have highlighted the impact of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ activities in Isfahan, which have led to health issues and concerns for residents. While the U.S. and allies have supported Israel’s actions, some experts feel the response represented a missed opportunity to impose a more significant cost on Iran.
Iran’s reliance on Isfahan for its military and nuclear activities underscores the strategic importance of the city in the region. The recent strikes have exposed vulnerabilities in Iran’s air defense systems and raised concerns about the regime’s ability to deter future attacks. Despite the ambiguity surrounding Israeli strikes, the actions signal a willingness to respond to threats and send a message to Tehran. As tensions between Iran and Israel escalate, the situation in Isfahan and its role in the conflict will continue to be closely monitored by experts and observers.
