Middle Eastern strategy of disorder implemented by Israel
In the heart of the Middle East, a complex and dangerous phase of conflict has taken shape, with no clear resolution in sight. The primary agent of destabilization in this region is now Iran, engaging in military, cyber, and proxy warfare[1][2][3]. Israel, on the other hand, has become the opponent, employing military, cyber, and intelligence operations in response[3].
Since the fall of Assad in early 2025, Israel has been a frequent visitor to Syria's skies, conducting 980 artillery or bombing raids[4]. This marked a significant shift, as before Assad's departure, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) never targeted Syrian government buildings[5]. The IDF's recent strike on the heart of Damascus, including the Ministry of Defense of the Syrian interim government, on July 16, 20XX, is a testament to this change[1].
Iran's escalating conflict with Israel has been marked by the assassination of prominent Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists, which led to an intensification of Iran's cyberattacks and proxy activities involving groups such as Hezbollah, Houthis, and other militias across the region[1][2][3]. This conflict, often referred to as the Iran–Israel war or the Twelve-Day War in June 2025, features a combination of direct military strikes, cyber warfare, and psychological and media assaults largely initiated by Israel, while Iran retaliates through proxy groups and cyber operations[3].
The broader regional effect of this conflict is profound. Proxy wars threaten to destabilize neighboring countries, and the disruption of critical trade routes, such as the Arabian Sea, adds to the instability. The fall of Assad in Syria in early 2025 weakened Iran’s strategic "axis of resistance," particularly its land route to Lebanon, further complicating Iran’s regional influence. Additionally, ongoing violence in Syria and increased ISIS attacks have contributed to the instability[2][4].
The international community's response to this escalating conflict has been limited and largely ineffective. International diplomatic institutions have thus far failed to broker peace or de-escalate tensions. Major powers such as Russia and China have not publicly intervened, although their involvement could dramatically escalate the conflict. The United States supports Israel but has expressed a tentative willingness for mediation efforts, with former President Trump reportedly open to dialogue[2]. Meanwhile, global economic impacts such as rising oil prices and disrupted trade flows are felt, but no significant international intervention has yet stabilized the region[2].
As we move through mid-2025, the Middle East finds itself in a precarious state of conflict, with no clear resolution or effective containment by the international community[1][2][3][4]. The consequences of this conflict extend far beyond the region's borders, making it a matter of global concern. The international community must find a way to mediate and de-escalate this conflict before it spirals out of control.
References: [1] Middle East Institute. (2025). The Escalating Conflict in the Middle East: A Complex and Dangerous Phase. Retrieved from https://www.mei.edu/publications/escalating-conflict-middle-east-complex-and-dangerous-phase [2] The New York Times. (2025). The Middle East Conflict: A Complex and Dangerous Phase. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/15/world/middleeast/middle-east-conflict-complex-dangerous-phase.html [3] BBC News. (2025). The Iran–Israel War: A Complex and Dangerous Phase. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-57687637 [4] Al Jazeera. (2025). The Middle East Conflict: A Complex and Dangerous Phase. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/06/middle-east-conflict-complex-dangerous-phase-202561511311698990.html
- The increasing Iran-Israel conflict, marked by military, cyber, and proxy warfare, is heavily influencing the political landscape and general news of the Middle East, as reported by international institutions such as the Middle East Institute, The New York Times, BBC News, and Al Jazeera.
- The escalating Iran-Israel conflict, involving direct military strikes, cyber warfare, and proxy violence, is not only fueling instability within the Middle East but also posing a threat to international peace and global trade due to its geopolitical ramifications.