On Thursday, Israeli forces carried out air raids against Iranian forces in Syria. According to the article, this bombardment was out of retaliation for Iranian fire on Israeli occupied Golan Heights. Iran has made nor remarks on the air fire strikes made upon Golan Heights, yet this marks the first time Iranian forces have directly attacked Israeli territory.
Foreign leaders, especially Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, have cautioned Israel to restrain from further attacks, although Israel has explicitly stated in past events it would “not accept Iran entrenching itself militarily in Syria” (aljazeera article). With the withdraw of the United States from the Iran nuclear deal of 2015, Israel has become more emboldened in regards to their dealings with Iran in Syria. The reason behind their harsh dealings with Iran is the fear that Iranian involvement in Syria is intended to start a war with Israel.
It will be interesting to see the events that transpire after the Israeli air strike as this is occurring during a period of time where the United States, who is Israel’s closest ally, and Iran are experiencing a tense relationship. However, I do not believe the United States will be willing to enter a war with Iran, especially considering the lack of international backing of the nuclear argument. It is reasonable for Israel to be fearful of Iranian influence in Syria, however, it is very unlikely any major hostile action will occur outside of the Syrian boarders.