Iran built a network of armed groups across the Middle East to protect itself from direct attacks. These proxy forces helped Iran spread its power without fighting wars on Iranian soil. Israel spent years planning to destroy these protective layers before targeting Iran directly.
Israel started bombing Iran last Friday and hit nuclear sites and military bases. The attacks killed top commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran fired back with missiles and drones but both countries see each other as deadly enemies.
Military experts say Iran's proxy groups have lost most of their strength. Israel crushed Hamas in Gaza and badly damaged Hezbollah in Lebanon over the past year. The fall of Syria's government last December hurt Iran's regional influence even more.
Hezbollah remains quiet since its ceasefire with Israel ended in November. The group lost many weapons and fighters during 14 months of war. Lebanese officials pressure Hezbollah to stay out of the Iran conflict to avoid more destruction.
Lebanon cannot handle another war after losing over 20,000 people since October 2023. The World Bank says Israeli bombing caused 11 billion dollars in damage. Some Hezbollah supporters feel angry that Iran did not help them during their recent war.
Israel started bombing Iran last Friday and hit nuclear sites and military bases. The attacks killed top commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran fired back with missiles and drones but both countries see each other as deadly enemies.
Military experts say Iran's proxy groups have lost most of their strength. Israel crushed Hamas in Gaza and badly damaged Hezbollah in Lebanon over the past year. The fall of Syria's government last December hurt Iran's regional influence even more.
Hezbollah remains quiet since its ceasefire with Israel ended in November. The group lost many weapons and fighters during 14 months of war. Lebanese officials pressure Hezbollah to stay out of the Iran conflict to avoid more destruction.
Lebanon cannot handle another war after losing over 20,000 people since October 2023. The World Bank says Israeli bombing caused 11 billion dollars in damage. Some Hezbollah supporters feel angry that Iran did not help them during their recent war.
