An Israeli sabotage attack on an Iranian natural gas pipeline has been alleged by Iran's oil minister to be the cause of multiple explosions that struck it a week ago. The comments by Iran’s Oil Minister come amidst escalating tensions between the two regional adversaries, particularly in light of Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The Oil Minister stated that the explosion of the gas pipeline was part of an Israeli plot to disrupt gas service in Iranian provinces and jeopardize gas distribution for the people. However, no evidence was provided to support these claims.
Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack, as it typically does not acknowledge its espionage missions abroad. The recent blasts on the natural gas pipeline occurred on February 14, affecting a pipeline running from Iran’s western province to cities on the Caspian Sea.
Iran has previously experienced unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines, with the Oil Minister drawing parallels to similar incidents in 2011. These attacks coincided with significant dates in Iran's history, such as the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.
Israel has a history of carrying out attacks in Iran, primarily targeting its nuclear program. Recent concerns over Iran's nuclear activities have been raised by the head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, citing lack of transparency in Iran's atomic program.
Furthermore, tensions have been heightened by Iran's support for groups in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have launched attacks against Israel. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has further exacerbated hostilities between the parties.
Recent incidents, including suspected Israeli strikes in Syria's capital, Damascus, have underscored the volatile situation in the region. The geopolitical landscape remains fraught with military actions and retaliatory measures, signaling ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel.
