Iran Reveals New Underground Naval Base Amid Rising Tensions with Israel

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Iran has unveiled a new underground naval base designed to counter perceived threats, particularly from Israel. Footage broadcast on state television shows a significant number of speedboats positioned within an expansive underground tunnel, reportedly constructed at a depth of 500 meters in an undisclosed location in the Gulf.

General Hossein Salami, the chief of the Revolutionary Guards, along with naval commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, visited the base, emphasizing its capability to confront "enemies big and small." The base is equipped with vessels capable of launching long-range missiles and executing distant attacks. Salami assured the Iranian populace that their forces are prepared to defend the nation effectively.

The revelation comes at a time of heightened concern among Iranian leaders regarding the potential for escalated military action from Israel, particularly with Donald Trump set to be inaugurated as U.S. President. Analysts speculate that Trump's presidency may embolden Israel, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to target Iran's nuclear infrastructure.

In recent months, Iran has conducted military drills focused on air defense near its critical nuclear facilities, amid fears of an Israeli strike. The conflict dynamics have intensified since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, with increasing exchanges of strikes between Iran and Israel, leading both sides to avoid a full-scale war. Iranian proxy forces in various regions have also targeted Israeli interests as part of their retaliatory strategy.

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