The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has spilled over in 2024, amplifying tensions across the Middle East. Supported by the U.S. and other allies, Israel has engaged in multi-front confrontations against what is termed the \"Axis of Resistance,\" comprising regional states and various non-state actors. As a primary backer of this axis, Iran has faced a particularly turbulent year, marked by a series of major events and challenges.
From proxy war to direct confrontation
On April 1, Israel launched an air strike on the consular section of Iran's embassy in Syria, killing more than 10 people, including Iranian military personnel and Syrian civilians.
The attack caused a public outcry, with Iranian citizens demanding immediate retaliation and the Iranian government interpreting the strike as a declaration of war.
Over the following days, Iran issued strong condemnations and assertive military statements. The attack was widely seen as the tipping point, escalating the conflict from a proxy war to direct military confrontation.
Reference(s):
Middle East Insights: Iran, confrontations and a turbulent year
cgtn.com
