Israel's Deadly Assassinations: A High-Risk War Strategy Exposed

Israel's strategy in its ongoing conflict with Iran has become increasingly reliant on targeted assassinations of key figures. As the war enters its fourth week, this tactic has drawn both praise and criticism from experts and observers alike. NPR's Adrian Ma spoke with Yossi Melman, a renowned reporter on Israeli intelligence, to unpack the state of the conflict and the potential consequences of this approach.

Melman explains that Israel's use of assassinations is not a new development, but rather a longstanding component of its broader intelligence and military operations. "Israel has a long history of carrying out targeted killings, both against individual terrorists and against senior enemy figures," he notes. "This is seen as an effective way to disrupt the enemy's operations and leadership."

However, the current wave of assassinations has taken on a new level of intensity and risk. Recent targets have included high-ranking officials within the Iranian government and military, as well as scientists and engineers believed to be involved in the country's nuclear program. Israel has been accused of orchestrating several daring attacks, including the assassination of a top Iranian general and the bombing of a prominent nuclear scientist's vehicle.

While these operations have dealt blows to Iran's leadership and capabilities, they have also drawn significant backlash and raised concerns about the potential for further escalation. "Iran has vowed to retaliate, and there are fears that this could spark a broader and more dangerous conflict," Melman cautions. "Israel may be winning some battles, but the ultimate question is whether this strategy can lead to a clear and lasting victory."

Experts argue that Israel's reliance on assassinations is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can disrupt the enemy's operations and morale, and send a message of strength and resolve. On the other hand, it can also galvanize support for Iran and its allies, and lead to retaliation that could spiral out of control.

Moreover, the legality and ethics of these targeted killings have been widely debated. While Israel and its allies argue that they are justified as acts of self-defense, critics contend that they violate international law and human rights norms.

As the conflict continues to unfold, the success or failure of Israel's assassination strategy will have far-reaching implications. Melman suggests that Israel may need to consider alternative approaches, such as diplomatic efforts and economic pressure, to achieve its goals without risking further escalation and bloodshed.

"At the end of the day," he concludes, "the true test of this strategy will be whether it can bring about a lasting resolution to the conflict, or whether it will only perpetuate a cycle of violence and retaliation."