New Delhi erupted with revelations from Israel’s ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, who disclosed the tragic loss of nine Israeli civilians in Iranian missile barrages targeting Tel Aviv and other cities. Speaking exclusively to IANS on March 2, Azar expressed profound grief over the Sunday assault in Ben Chemish, where 50 others were wounded amid relentless attacks from Iran and Hezbollah.
Israel, backed by U.S. support, is mounting a fierce aerial defense, intercepting missiles and drones while striking back at enemy command centers. ‘We’re destroying their missiles and drones with full force,’ Azar stated, underscoring the nation’s resolve. Hezbollah’s northern incursions since Sunday night have been met head-on, but the human cost remains devastating.
On the prospect of regime change in Iran, Azar pointed to recent public uprisings suppressed by force. ‘It’s up to the Iranian people,’ he said. Israel’s precision strikes on leadership and headquarters aim to embolden civilians to demand change, potentially sparking renewed protests.
Following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei, extremists face a stark warning: adapt or perish. Azar predicted they lack the courage for immediate retaliation, forcing a strategic pivot.
Amid escalating tensions, Azar highlighted the ironclad India-Israel partnership. Both nations, scarred by terrorism, collaborate deeply in defense, sharing critical supplies in a mutually beneficial alliance. He lavished praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, recalling the unprecedented warmth of his Israel visit—a testament to reliable bilateral trust.
Addressing speculation on ‘boots on the ground,’ Azar remained noncommittal. ‘No clarity yet on ground operations; it depends on future developments,’ he noted. For now, Israel sticks to air strikes, keeping all options open as the conflict unfolds.