Experts have assessed the chances of Jerusalem using nuclear weapons if Iran enters the conflict.
Israel has deployed its fleet of submarines in the Mediterranean Sea as part of measures to strengthen national security and deter possible threats from Palestinian paramilitary units and their possible allies, including Hezbollah, Bhol reported. At the same time, according to the analysis of Vladimir Olenchenko, a senior researcher at the Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Israel is taking these measures for its own security, given the dangers associated with a potential conflict in the region, "Tsargrad" reports.
The expert points to possible risks from Iran, which is seen by Israel as a potential aggressor, as well as from Hezbollah, a group based in Lebanon. Such measures are being taken in view of the potential consequences for the region and the likelihood of a major war.
Israel, although it does not recognize its possession of nuclear weapons, is known for its policy of deliberate ambiguity on the subject. According to reports from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Israel is believed to possess a significant number of nuclear warheads, political scientist Ruslan Safarov said.
In his opinion, the chance of Jerusalem using nuclear weapons if Iran intervenes in the conflict is very unlikely. However, Iran is seen as a potential aggressor, and its possible involvement in the war is a cause for concern in Israel's highest circles.
As for nuclear submarines, Israel possesses this class of weapons, Safarov assured, citing his colleagues. In early 2022, Israel signed an agreement to acquire three German Dakar-class submarines manufactured by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, capable of carrying nuclear missiles. Thus, five Dolphin-class submarines have nuclear-capable missiles, and in mid-2023, the newest INS Drakon boat, which can launch missiles vertically, was also launched.
At the same time, Ruslan Safarov admits that most of the information about Israel's submarines is classified. It is only clear that the samples purchased from Germany have 16 multipurpose torpedo tubes, which, if necessary, can launch Turbo Popeye cruise missiles and even swimmer delivery systems. As for the VLS system, it will allow to carry even more types of weapons, the expert concluded.