Iran vs Israel 2025: Could This Spark a New Cold War?

Tensions between two Middle Eastern heavyweights have erupted into a full-fledged Israel‑Iran war 2025. What’s happening now? In the latest twist, Israel’s Operation Rising Lion unleashed a devastating wave of airstrikes on Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure—including the hardened Natanz enrichment complex—on June 13, 2025. 3 days ago · What Israel ’s attack on Iran means for the future of war Blurring the line between preemptive and preventive strike risks sending the world into a state of perpetual war . 3 days ago · Iran ’s militias — from Hezbollah in Lebanon, already degraded after losing its own conflict with Israel last year, to the Iraqi militias under the control of Iran ’s Islamic Revolutionary. 1 day ago · Israel ’ s 12-day war with Iran was a test of technological dominance From drones to missile defense, the military’s multi-domain capabilities reshaped the battlefield against growing threats. 5 days ago · The Islamic Republic limps on after the 12-day conflict. Where will the nation go from here? The Israel - Iran battle stands at a crucial juncture in 2025. What started as a chilly ideological war has developed right into a complicated net of proxy fights, cyber warfare, and direct missile exchanges. On June 13, 2025 , Israel conducted a major operation against Iran . The anticipated attack targeted nuclear facilities, military sites, and regime infrastructure. Facing a massive attack on its homeland, the Islamic Republic's response has been restrained, driven by vulnerability and the need to avoid U.S. Its strategy appears aimed at preserving deterrence and diplomatic options while managing internal fallout amid mounting civilian losses. The Israeli attack on Iran 's nuclear program and military assets and Iran 's responding missile strikes represent a significant escalation in the long-standing tensions between the two nations. RAND experts provide insights into the strategic, diplomatic, and economic dimensions of this unfolding crisis. Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated beyond proxy engagements into direct conflict since June 13 , 2025 . Israel leads militarily, amplified by U.S. Involvement, while Iran relies on missile barrages and regional alliances.