WSJ: Can A Single Air Force Bring Victory To Israel?

The conflict between Israel and Iran is historically unique.

Israel is conducting massive airstrikes against Iranian targets, hoping to achieve strategic objectives without a full-scale ground operation. It's a rare case of a conflict where the confrontation is conducted almost exclusively from the air - and it could change perceptions of future wars, writes The Wall Street Journal (translated by Charter97.org).

Israel's goal is to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, either by physically destroying key facilities or forcing Tehran to abandon the program through negotiations. Some Israeli politicians also speak of eliminating Iran's theocratic regime.

Other experts, however, doubt that airpower alone can win such a war. As historian Phillips O'Brien notes, without a presence on the ground, you can't seize territory - only destroy it.

Israel relies on precision weapons, drones and intelligence. Possible U.S. involvement, especially with its penetrating bombs, could play a key role - for example, in a strike on Fordow's underground uranium enrichment center. The White House has said a decision on participation will be made in the coming weeks.

Iran, despite its limited capabilities, is not giving up. Its missiles have not caused significant damage thanks to Israeli air defenses, and the Israeli Air Force continues to dominate the skies over western Iran.

There are several scenarios for ending the conflict: destruction of Iran's nuclear program, concessions by Tehran, regime change - or a prolonged stalemate. Even partial success may buy Israel time, but will not solve the problem definitively.

For the first time in history, it is possible that the outcome of a major war will be decided without occupation - only by air strikes.

You can support the website Charter97.org

MULTI-CURRENCY ACCOUNT FOR ASSISTANCE:

Bank's name: Bank Millennium S.A.
Address: ul. Stanislawa Zaryna, 2A, 02-593, Warszawa
IBAN: PL97116022020000000216711123
SWIFT: BIGBPLPW
Name of the account holder: Fundacja “KARTA ‘97”
Purpose/title of payment: Donation for statuary aims

You can contact us by the e-mail charter97@gmail.com