The Iran-Israel conflict has once again drawn the world’s attention towards itself in 2025. This conflict, which started as a proxy war in Syria and Lebanon, is now escalating into the full-fledged war.
The increasing missile attacks, growing number of deaths and regional instability have raised a question in everyone’s mind whether a major war is going to take place in the Middle East or is the Middle East on the verge of the third world war.
This article explores the root causes, recent developments, military strength, and the possible global consequences of this high-stakes conflict.
Historical Background: Why Iran and Israel are Enemies?
The enmity between Iran and Israel is not new;
it began during the Iran Revolution in 1979, when the new regime declared Israel an unjust state.
Iran provides financial support to Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, both of which oppose the existence of Israel.
Iran’s growing nuclear ambitions over the past several decades, along with repeated calls to eliminate Israel, have deepened tensions between the two countries.
In response, Israel launched cyberattacks on Iran to delay its nuclear program and assassinated one of its top nuclear scientists.
What Triggered the Current Crisis (2025)?
Several violent incidents in early 2025 have escalated the conflict between the two countries:
– Israel launched airstrikes in Syria, targeting Iranian Revolutionary Guard positions near Damascus.
– In response, Iran fired hundreds of missiles at Israeli military sites in the Golan Heights.
– Hezbollah carried out drone attacks from Lebanon, while Hamas launched rockets from Gaza
– Israel responded with full-force airstrikes on both Lebanon and Hamas targets.
As a result of these developments, the conflict between the two countries continues, with no signs of peace.
Military Strength: Iran-Israel (2025)
“What is the military strength of Iran and Israel, and how much power does each country hold? You can understand it clearly from the content given in this table.”
| Category | Iran | Israel |
|---|---|---|
| Active Military | ~580,000 personnel | ~170,000 personnel |
| Defense Budget | ~$24 billion (approx.) | ~$23 billion (approx.) |
| Air Force Strength | ~550 aircraft (older fleet) | ~600 aircraft (advanced, incl. F-35s) |
| Missile Capability | Ballistic & cruise missiles (Shahab, etc.) | Jericho missiles, Iron Dome, Arrow, etc. |
| Nuclear Capability | Suspected (not confirmed) | Estimated 90+ warheads (undeclared) |
| Key Allies | Russia, Syria, Hezbollah, Houthis | USA, NATO, Western allies |
Involvement of Other Countries
The conflict between these two countries is no longer limited to just Iran and Israel. Several major powers have become involved:
– The United States of America, Israel’s closest ally, has deployed an aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean Sea and warned Iran of serious consequences.
– Iran maintains business and military relations with Russia and China. Both countries condemned Israel’s aggression and called for peace.
– The UAE and Saudi Arabia oppose Iran’s influence but seek regional stability and have urged both sides to pursue peace.
Strategic Importance of Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz, located between the Persian Gulf to the northwest and the Gulf of Oman to the southeast, is one of the world’s most strategic chokepoints for oil transportation.
It separates Iran (to the north) from Oman and the UAE (to the south), making it a critical maritime passage controlled from both sides.
Iran has threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil supply passes.
Oil prices could rise to as high as $150 per barrel.
Countries like India, China, Japan, and the European Union could face an energy crisis.
The US Navy has increased patrols in the area to ensure freedom of navigation.
Could This Lead to World War 3?
There is no sign of a full-scale world war, but some threats remain.
If Israel continues to bomb Iran’s nuclear sites, Iran may also take action against U.S. bases in the region.
Iran supports many proxy groups, so Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Shia militias could also open multiple fronts of war.
This conflict could become even more dangerous if Russia provides military support to Iran. NATO would be involved through the United States.
However, at this time, world powers prefer to resolve this conflict diplomatically rather than militarily.
Global Reactions
The United Nations called an emergency meeting of the Security Council and appealed for restraint.
Religious leaders around the world also urged people to maintain peace.
There was volatility in global markets — oil prices increased, and the price of gold also rose.
False information, propaganda, and fake videos of air attacks were circulated on social media.
What Does This Mean for India?
India maintains diplomatic ties with both Israel and Iran.
More than 8 million Indians live in the Gulf countries.
Due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices in India as well as around the world could rise.Therefore, India is closely monitoring the conflict.
Conclusion
India’s investment of approximately $550 million in Iran’s Chabahar Port is of strategic significance.”
Iran has bombed Israel’s Haifa Port, which is operated by the Adani Group, raising fears that Israel may retaliate by bombing Iran’s Chabahar Port.
This could put India’s investment at risk. The 2025 conflict between Iran and Israel has become not only a military confrontation but also a diplomatic one, with nearly all major world powers gradually getting involved.