Why are Israel and Iran So Hostile Toward Each Other?

The countries “Israel” and “Iran” often show up in Middle East news. You may have heard these names, but have you ever wondered, “Why are these two countries so opposed to each other?” In this post, we’ll explain the reasons for their conflict in as simple terms as possible—covering history, religion, politics, and especially the nuclear development issue.

They Used to be Friends?

Actually, Israel and Iran were not always enemies. After Israel was founded in 1948, Iran was one of the few Middle Eastern countries to maintain official diplomatic relations with Israel. They cooperated economically and militarily, and even had direct flights between them.

However, in 1979, Iran underwent a major shake-up known as the Islamic Revolution. It changed into a religious state based on Islam, and abruptly severed ties with Western-friendly countries, including Israel. From that point on, Iran began to regard Israel as an “enemy,” using strong words like “Israel should be wiped off the map.”

Big Differences in Religion and Opinions

Israel is a Jewish state. In contrast, Iran is an Islamic country that follows Shia Islam. Although this religious difference isn’t the sole reason for their conflict, Iran’s leaders believe that Israel has taken control of Jerusalem—a sacred place for Muslims—and refuse to recognize Israel’s existence.

Furthermore, Iran strongly believes that “it’s right to oppose Israel to support the Palestinian people.” As a result, they provide weapons and money to Palestinian militant groups like Hamas and Lebanese Hezbollah, which further provokes Israel.

An Indirect, “Proxy War”

Israel and Iran do not share a border, so they don’t fight each other directly. Instead, they engage in what’s called a “proxy war,” using other countries or armed groups. For instance, groups supported by Iran—such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah or Gaza’s Hamas—have fought Israel multiple times.

The Nuclear Development Issue: Their Biggest Flashpoint

Currently, the issue everyone focuses on is nuclear development.

Iran claims its nuclear energy program is for peaceful purposes. But Israel and the United States strongly suspect Iran is actually trying to build nuclear weapons. If Iran were to obtain nuclear weapons, it would pose an existential threat to Israel.

Israel is believed to already possess nuclear weapons, though it officially maintains ambiguity. But if Iran succeeds in developing nuclear arms, the balance of power would shift dramatically. That’s why Israel has declared it is prepared to take military action if necessary, to prevent Iran from acquiring them.

Can They Ever Make Peace?

As of now, there is little hope for reconciliation. Iran views Israel as a state that “should not exist,” and Israel sees Iran’s nuclear and missile developments as a direct threat. Major powers like the U.S., Russia, and China are also involved, making diplomatic solutions extremely difficult.

Still, neither country wants a full-scale war, knowing it would be devastating for both. For the time being, they are in a precarious state of constant tension.

Summary

The hostility between Israel and Iran stems from multiple intertwined causes: history, religion, politics, and especially the nuclear issue. That nuclear issue is one of the biggest reasons for their rising tension.

So when you come across headlines like “Israel and Iran are in Conflict,” don’t think it’s just two countries disliking each other—it’s also about their backgrounds, positions, and global security.

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ずっとピースらぼ管理人のわんぞーです。イギリスで平和学を学び、その後国際協力の現場や大学で仕事をしてきました。ずっとピースらぼでは、「優しい」と「易しい」の両方の意味をこめて、「やさしい平和教育」を発信しています。中学生や高校生にもわかりやすい内容を届けることで、いつの日か争いのない社会にできたらいいな、と思っています。 ｜Eternal Peace Lab shares information about easy-to-understand peace education. By delivering content that students can easily grasp, we hope to one day achieve world peace.