Is Iran Against Israel? Unpacking A Complex Rivalry

Gordon Muller 21 Jun 2025

The question, "is Iran against Israel?" delves into one of the most enduring and volatile geopolitical rivalries in the Middle East, a conflict marked by decades of escalating tensions, proxy wars, and direct military exchanges. This deep-seated animosity extends far beyond mere political disagreement, touching upon historical grievances, ideological clashes, and a fierce competition for regional dominance. Understanding the multifaceted nature of this antagonism is crucial for comprehending the broader dynamics of stability and conflict in a highly strategic part of the world.

From covert operations and cyberattacks to overt missile strikes and the arming of proxy forces, the confrontation between Iran and Israel has consistently pushed the region to the brink of wider conflict. Both nations perceive the other as an existential threat, fueling a dangerous cycle of retaliation and pre-emptive action. This article will explore the historical roots, key flashpoints, military capabilities, and international dimensions of this complex and often perilous relationship, shedding light on why the answer to "is Iran against Israel?" is unequivocally yes, and why this rivalry continues to be a primary source of global concern.

Historical Roots of Animosity
- US Role and Historical Grievances
The Nuclear Dimension: A Core Concern
- Israel's Stance on Iran's Nuclear Program
Proxy Warfare: A Regional Chessboard
- Iran's Network of Allies
Direct Confrontations: Escalation and Retaliation
- Recent Exchanges and Their Impact
Military Capabilities and Defenses
International Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts
The US Stance: An Unwavering Ally
Understanding the Future of the Conflict
Conclusion

Historical Roots of Animosity

The deep-seated animosity that defines the relationship between Iran and Israel today is a relatively modern phenomenon, distinct from the historical ties that once existed between the Persian and Jewish peoples. Prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, the two nations maintained diplomatic relations, driven by shared strategic interests, particularly against Arab nationalism. However, the revolution fundamentally reshaped Iran's foreign policy, transforming it into an Islamic republic founded on anti-Zionist principles. The new Iranian regime, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, declared Israel an illegitimate entity and a "cancerous tumor" in the Middle East, calling for its destruction. This ideological shift laid the groundwork for the enduring question: is Iran against Israel? From that point forward, Iran began to actively support Palestinian militant groups and other anti-Israel factions across the region, viewing the Palestinian cause as a central tenet of its revolutionary ideology. This support manifested in financial aid, military training, and arms supplies, directly challenging Israel's security. Israel, in turn, perceived Iran's revolutionary rhetoric and actions as an existential threat, necessitating a robust defense and proactive measures to counter Iranian influence. The initial ideological clash quickly evolved into a tangible strategic rivalry, marked by proxy conflicts and a constant state of vigilance from both sides. This historical trajectory explains why the current state of affairs between Iran and Israel is one of deep mistrust and open hostility.

US Role and Historical Grievances

The United States has played a significant, albeit complex, role in shaping Iran's historical grievances, which in turn feed into its anti-Israel stance. Israel's closest military ally, the United States, has a long history of intervention in Iran, including the August 1953 overthrow of the Mossadegh government by U.S. covert operatives, and the decades-long U.S. support for the authoritarian rule of the Shah. These actions are deeply etched in the collective memory of the Iranian leadership and populace, fostering a narrative of Western interference and a desire to assert regional independence. From Tehran's perspective, Israel is often viewed as an extension of U.S. power and influence in the region, further entrenching the belief that a confrontation with Israel is part of a broader struggle against Western hegemony. Moreover, Iran and its proxies have targeted American water and energy systems, hit global shipping, and plotted attacks in New York, actions which Washington attributes to Tehran's aggressive regional posture. This history of confrontation with the U.S. directly impacts the dynamic between Iran and Israel, as the U.S. remains Israel's top weapons supplier and primary diplomatic backer. The intertwined nature of U.S.-Iran relations and U.S.-Israel relations means that any escalation between Iran and Israel inevitably draws in Washington, as evidenced by statements like "Israel's war against Iran is America's war, too." This complex web of historical grievances, ideological differences, and strategic alliances forms the bedrock of the current tensions, making the question "is Iran against Israel?" a deeply layered one.

The Nuclear Dimension: A Core Concern

At the heart of the ongoing confrontation, and a primary driver behind the question of "is Iran against Israel," is Iran's nuclear program. Israel views a nuclear-armed Iran as an unacceptable existential threat, citing Iran's revolutionary ideology, its calls for Israel's destruction, and its development of long-range ballistic missiles. For Israel, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability is a top national security priority, one it has repeatedly stated it will achieve by any means necessary. This conviction has led to a series of covert operations, cyberattacks, and targeted assassinations against Iranian nuclear scientists and facilities, often attributed to Israeli intelligence. The international community, particularly Western powers, has also expressed grave concerns about the nature and intent of Iran's nuclear activities. While Iran maintains its program is for peaceful purposes, its past lack of transparency and continued enrichment of uranium to higher levels have fueled suspicions. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or Iran nuclear deal, was an attempt to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief, but its future remains uncertain, particularly after the U.S. withdrawal under the Trump administration. The perceived threat of a nuclear Iran continues to be a major catalyst for direct and indirect confrontations, solidifying the perception that Iran is indeed against Israel.

Israel's Stance on Iran's Nuclear Program

Israel's stance on Iran's nuclear program is unequivocal: it cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Netanyahu has repeatedly stated that Iran cannot retain any nuclear or missile threat, underscoring the severity with which Israel views this issue. This firm position is not merely rhetorical; Israel has demonstrated a willingness to act unilaterally to neutralize perceived nuclear threats. For instance, Israel struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear, missile, and military complex early Friday, in an unprecedented attack that reportedly killed three of Iran’s most powerful figures and plunged the region into further uncertainty. Such actions highlight Israel's proactive approach to what it considers an existential danger. The strikes on Iran's military establishment and nuclear program are often in retaliation for perceived Iranian aggressions or as pre-emptive measures. These attacks have alarmed Israel and the United States, with leaders closely monitoring the situation. The consistent Israeli military and intelligence operation against Iran, sometimes unprecedented in scale and scope, prompts Iran to vow a “crushing response” as the escalating conflict risks wider regional instability. The ongoing cycle of action and reaction, particularly concerning the nuclear program, clearly illustrates the deep-seated antagonism and the core reason why the question "is Iran against Israel?" yields a definitive answer.

Proxy Warfare: A Regional Chessboard

The conflict between Iran and Israel is largely fought through a complex web of proxy forces across the Middle East, transforming the region into a strategic chessboard. Instead of direct, large-scale military engagements, both nations leverage non-state actors to advance their interests, exert influence, and undermine their adversary. Iran has cultivated a "Shiite Crescent" of allied militias and political groups stretching from Lebanon to Yemen, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, various Shiite militias in Iraq and Syria, and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. These proxies serve as extensions of Iran's foreign policy, allowing Tehran to project power and threaten Israel's borders without directly engaging its military. For Israel, these Iranian-backed proxies represent a significant and immediate threat. Hezbollah, heavily armed by Iran, possesses a vast arsenal of rockets and missiles capable of striking deep into Israeli territory. Similarly, Iranian-backed groups in Syria and Iraq pose a persistent danger along Israel's northern and eastern frontiers. Israel consistently conducts airstrikes in Syria and, at times, Iraq, targeting Iranian weapons shipments and military infrastructure to prevent the entrenchment of these forces near its borders. This indirect but constant confrontation through proxies is a defining characteristic of the rivalry, making it clear that Iran is indeed against Israel through its strategic deployment of these non-state actors.

Iran's Network of Allies

Iran's network of allies is a crucial component of its regional strategy and a direct challenge to Israel's security. Hezbollah, arguably Iran's most potent proxy, has been instrumental in extending Tehran's influence into Lebanon and posing a formidable threat to Israel. In the past, these militias have periodically attacked U.S. interests and allies, further complicating regional dynamics. Beyond Lebanon, Iran supports various Shiite militias in Iraq, which have been integrated into the state security apparatus but often operate with significant autonomy, sometimes targeting U.S. forces or interests in the country. In Syria, Iran has established a strong military presence through its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and various allied militias, providing critical support to the Assad regime and creating a land bridge to Hezbollah. Further south, the Houthi rebels in Yemen, also backed by Iran, have demonstrated their capacity to launch long-range missiles and drones, including against Saudi Arabia and, more recently, threatening Red Sea shipping lanes. These diverse proxies enable Iran to maintain strategic depth, apply pressure on Israel from multiple fronts, and respond to perceived aggressions without direct attribution. The existence and operations of this extensive network are a testament to how deeply Iran is against Israel, employing a sophisticated, multi-pronged approach to encircle and challenge its adversary.

Direct Confrontations: Escalation and Retaliation

While much of the conflict between Iran and Israel plays out through proxies, there have been increasing instances of direct confrontation, particularly in recent years, signaling a dangerous escalation. These direct exchanges often involve air strikes, missile attacks, and cyber warfare, moving beyond the shadows of covert operations. The cycle of retaliation has become more pronounced, with each side responding to perceived provocations with increasing force. This shift towards direct engagement underscores the severity of the antagonism and makes the question "is Iran against Israel?" all the more pertinent in the context of open hostilities. A notable example of this escalation occurred recently when Iran retaliated against Israel for strikes on nuclear sites. Israel attacks Tehran with explosions booming across Iran’s capital, demonstrating a willingness to strike at the heart of Iranian power. Iran, in turn, has retaliated by launching hundreds of drones and missiles against Israel, some of which have penetrated Israel’s vaunted aerial defense system, killing two dozen people so far. This direct exchange of fire marks a significant departure from previous patterns, raising fears of a wider, full-scale regional conflict. The increasing frequency and intensity of these direct attacks highlight the volatile nature of the relationship and the inherent dangers it poses to regional stability.

Recent Exchanges and Their Impact

The recent exchanges between Iran and Israel have had profound impacts, pushing the region closer to an all-out war. In Iran’s April 2024 attack on Israel, called Operation “True Promise,” Iran used 110 ballistic missiles, in combination with unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles. This unprecedented scale of direct assault by Iran was in retaliation for Israel's strikes on Iran's military establishment and nuclear program, which had alarmed Israel and the United States. Israel, for its part, launched a series of strikes against Iran that included dozens of military targets, including the country's nuclear program, according to the Israel Defense Forces. These actions represent a significant escalation from the long-standing shadow war. The air war between Israel and Iran entered a second week on Friday, with European officials seeking to draw Tehran back to the negotiating table after President Donald Trump commented on potential U.S. involvement. American and Israeli officials are now warning of the risk of a direct attack by Iran against Israel, a concern amplified by statements from Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, regarding the April 1 attack. Iran has retaliated with missile strikes against Israel, killing at least 24 people, further cementing the cycle of violence. Israel’s military and intelligence operation against Iran early Friday was unprecedented in scale and scope, prompting Iran to vow a “crushing response” as the escalating conflict risks spiraling out of control. These events unequivocally demonstrate the active and dangerous state of hostility, confirming that Iran is against Israel in a very direct and impactful way.

Military Capabilities and Defenses

The military capabilities and sophisticated defense systems of both Iran and Israel are critical factors in understanding the dynamics of their conflict. Israel possesses one of the most advanced militaries in the world, heavily supported by the United States, its closest military ally. Its air force is equipped with cutting-edge fighter jets, and its intelligence services are renowned for their covert operations. Central to Israel's defense strategy is its multi-layered air defense system, which has in the past fended off attacks from Gaza, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Iran. This system, including the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow interceptors, is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, from short-range rockets to long-range ballistic missiles. Iran, while not possessing the same level of technological superiority as Israel, has invested heavily in its ballistic missile program and drone capabilities. Still, Iranian missiles have tested the multilayered network of Israeli defenses, demonstrating their potential to penetrate even sophisticated systems. In Iran’s April 2024 attack on Israel, called Operation “True Promise,” Iran used 110 ballistic missiles, in combination with unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles, showcasing its considerable arsenal and the ability to launch a large-scale, coordinated attack. Both nations are continually enhancing their military capacities, creating a dangerous arms race where each side seeks to deter or overcome the other's defensive and offensive capabilities. This ongoing military competition is a clear manifestation of the deep-seated animosity, further illustrating why Iran is against Israel.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts

The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have garnered significant international attention, prompting various diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation, though often with limited success. Global powers, particularly the United States and European nations, recognize the potential for the conflict to destabilize the entire Middle East and beyond, impacting global energy markets, shipping lanes, and counter-terrorism efforts. The international community largely calls for restraint and a return to diplomatic solutions, but the deep-seated mistrust and conflicting interests of the parties involved make such efforts incredibly challenging. European officials, for instance, sought to draw Tehran back to the negotiating table after President Donald Trump's statements on potential U.S. actions, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue. However, the White House said earlier today that Trump would not sign any potential G7 statement calling for de-escalation, underscoring the complexities and divisions within the international response itself. The United Nations and various regional bodies frequently issue condemnations of violence and calls for peaceful resolution, but their influence is often limited in the face of sovereign national security concerns. The lack of a unified international front and the divergent interests of key players mean that diplomatic efforts often struggle to bridge the chasm of animosity, leaving the fundamental question of "is Iran against Israel?" largely unanswered by peaceful means.

The US Stance: An Unwavering Ally

The United States maintains an unwavering commitment to Israel's security, making it Israel's top weapons supplier and most crucial strategic partner. This alliance is a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and significantly impacts the dynamic between Iran and Israel. Washington has consistently affirmed its support for Israel's right to self-defense and has provided extensive military aid, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic backing, particularly in international forums. This strong alliance means that any major escalation between Iran and Israel inevitably draws in the U.S., as articulated by the sentiment that "Israel's war against Iran is America's war, too." However, the U.S. approach to the Iran-Israel conflict has not always been monolithic, even within a single administration. For example, President Donald Trump opposed — and then reluctantly supported — Israel’s military action against Iran. This nuanced stance reflects the delicate balance the U.S. tries to strike: supporting its ally while also attempting to prevent a wider regional conflagration that could have severe global repercussions. Despite occasional differences in tactics, the strategic alignment remains firm. The U.S. has also directly confronted Iranian proxies, as seen in instances where militias periodically attacked U.S. interests, further intertwining American security concerns with the broader Iran-Israel rivalry. This steadfast U.S. support for Israel reinforces the perception in Tehran that Israel is an extension of American power, further solidifying Iran's adversarial stance and contributing to the answer of "is Iran against Israel?"

Understanding the Future of the Conflict

The future of the conflict between Iran and Israel remains highly uncertain, fraught with the potential for further escalation and devastating consequences for the region and beyond. The core antagonisms—Iran's revolutionary ideology and nuclear ambitions versus Israel's security imperatives—show no signs of abating. Both sides possess the capability and, at times, the stated intent to inflict significant damage on the other, making any miscalculation or unchecked escalation extremely perilous. American and Israeli officials are now warning of the risk of a direct attack by Iran against Israel, indicating a persistent and acute threat. Several factors will shape the trajectory of this rivalry. The status of Iran's nuclear program will continue to be a critical flashpoint; any perceived breakthrough by Tehran towards nuclear weapons capability would likely trigger a strong, possibly military, response from Israel. The regional landscape, including the stability of Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, and the activities of Iranian proxies, will also play a crucial role. Furthermore, the policies of major global powers, particularly the United States, will heavily influence the conflict's dynamics. A sustained diplomatic effort, perhaps involving new frameworks for regional security, would be necessary to de-escalate tensions, but such an outcome appears distant given the current climate. Without a fundamental shift in either side's strategic objectives or a significant external intervention, the answer to "is Iran against Israel?" will likely remain affirmative, and the conflict will continue to pose a significant threat to global stability.

Conclusion

The question "is Iran against Israel?" is answered unequivocally by decades of intense ideological, strategic, and military confrontation. From the historical grievances stemming from U.S. intervention in Iran and the subsequent Islamic Revolution, to the existential threat posed by Iran's nuclear program, and the pervasive proxy wars fought across the Middle East, the animosity is deep-seated and multifaceted. Recent direct exchanges of missile and drone attacks underscore a dangerous escalation, pushing the rivalry from a shadow war into overt hostilities, with significant casualties reported. Both nations possess formidable military capabilities, relying on sophisticated defense systems and extensive missile arsenals, ensuring that any conflict would be devastating. International efforts to de-escalate have largely struggled against the backdrop of deep mistrust and conflicting national interests, while the unwavering U.S. support for Israel further complicates the regional dynamic. The future of this rivalry remains precarious, with the potential for miscalculation leading to wider regional conflagration. Understanding these complex layers is vital for anyone seeking to comprehend the volatile geopolitics of the Middle East. What are your thoughts on the future of the Iran-Israel conflict? Do you believe a diplomatic solution is possible, or is further escalation inevitable? Share your perspectives in the comments below, and don't forget to explore our other articles on regional security for more in-depth analysis.

Iran says no to nuclear talks during conflict as UN urges restraint

HeadlineSphere