Warship “Saar” Delivered to Israel
As Israel faces heightened tensions with Iran, it has acquired its most advanced warship. The “Saar,” a German-built naval vessel that anchored in Haifa on Wednesday evening, has been described as a fortress for protecting vulnerable gas platforms in the Mediterranean.
On Wednesday, December 2, Israel took delivery of its most modern warship, which it had commissioned from Germany. Reuters reported the news, stating: “The Saar corvette was handed over to Tel Aviv amid escalating tensions with Tehran over the killing of Iran’s nuclear expert.”
Reuters added that the warship docked at the Port of Haifa, and three similar models are set to join Israel’s Navy next year. With the delivery of this vessel and three subsequent ones, the “Saar-6” fleet will be completed, increasing the capabilities of Israel’s Navy missile boats for extended missions in the Red Sea.
According to Reuters, Israel is seeking to protect its natural gas fields, which are located near Lebanon. The news agency reports that U.S.-mediated negotiations to determine maritime borders with this longtime adversary have failed.
Israel’s President had stated at a ceremony unveiling these gas fields in Haifa that a series of protective measures were necessary in this regard.
According to Reuters, Israel fears that Lebanon’s Hezbollah, following threats by Islamic Republic officials to retaliate for the killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, may conduct retaliatory operations against this country’s gas platforms.
Citing an Israeli security official, the news agency wrote: “The Iranians are looking for ways to restore their honor with minimal casualties and limited scope, but the question is whether Hezbollah will act now or not.”
While Lebanon’s Hezbollah had previously threatened Israel with attacks on gas platforms, it has stated that Iran itself should respond to Fakhrizadeh’s killing. Beirut has urged both sides to remain calm and restrained.
Iran has accused Israel of being involved in the killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. Tel Aviv has neither denied nor confirmed this accusation.
Source: DW
