Iran's recent launch of approximately 180 ballistic missiles at Israel marks a significant escalation, prompting immediate vows of retaliation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This shift reflects Iran's need to assert its leadership in the "axis of resistance" against Israel, moving away from a period of proxy engagements. Four key points.

*The missile strikes signify a departure from Iran's traditional reliance on Hezbollah and Hamas.

* Internal dissent in Iran could poses risks, as public opposition to conflict with Israel could grow because of its economic costs.

*Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and the IRGC are pushing for more aggressive actions.

*The potential for Israeli retaliation increases tensions in the Persian Gulf.

Iran accepts the costs of escalation, risking wider regional conflict.