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Unveiling the Depth of Israel-Iran Conflict
Historical Entanglements
The roots of the Israel-Iran conflict lie deep in history, with tensions simmering for centuries. Israel's establishment in 1948 on land once inhabited by Palestinian Arabs exacerbated the divide, as Iran has consistently supported the Palestinian cause. Moreover, Iran's Islamic Revolution in 1979 intensified the animosity, with the new Iranian regime viewing Israel as an illegitimate entity.
Political and Religious Divide
Political and religious differences further fuel the conflict. Israel, a predominantly Jewish nation, views itself as a Western democracy, aligning with the United States and other Western powers. In contrast, Iran, a Shia Muslim-majority country, has a theocratic government that often vilifies Israel as a symbol of Western imperialism. These contrasting ideologies create a fundamental incompatibility between the two nations.
Regional Rivalry and Arms Race
The conflict between Israel and Iran extends beyond their borders, shaping the regional dynamics in the Middle East. Both countries view each other as major threats, leading to a relentless arms race and a constant state of alert. The conflict also spills over into proxy wars, with Iran supporting militant groups in Lebanon and elsewhere that target Israel.