Tensions between Iran and Israel have been simmering for decades, with the latest escalation occurring after a missile and drone attack by Iran against Israel in response to the bombing of the Iranian consulate in Damascus on April 1. The attack resulted in the deaths of seven members of the Revolutionary Guard. Following the Israeli response on April 19, reports of explosions near Isfahan and the suspension of flights over Tehran were noted. In anticipation of further attacks, Iran activated its air defense systems in several cities.
Prior to the Israeli response, tensions had been mounting when Iran declared that it may reconsider its nuclear doctrine and policy if Israel threatened to attack its atomic centers. The commander of the Revolutionary Guard responsible for safeguarding Iranian atomic facilities warned that Tehran would retaliate by attacking Israeli nuclear facilities if Israel initiated a similar attack. As a result, Iran temporarily closed its nuclear facilities for security reasons following the attack, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Despite not being part of the 2015 nuclear agreement with six major powers, Iran has made significant progress in its nuclear program. Reports indicate that Iran produces highly enriched uranium up to 60%, which has potential military uses. However, amidst international condemnation and coordinated sanctions by the US and UK, there is still debate about the effectiveness of sanctions as a tool for inducing behavioral changes by government actors. As a result, tensions between Iran and Israel continue to rise, with international leaders closely monitoring the situation.
In conclusion, despite ongoing efforts to reduce tensions between them, conflicts between Iran and Israel remain persistent due to their long-standing history of adversity. With both countries continuing to pursue their respective interests through military means rather than diplomacy or peaceful resolution methods, it remains uncertain when or if they will finally be able to put aside their differences and find common ground towards achieving lasting peace in the region.
