Iran poses a series of long term and short term challenges to Israel. In the regional arena, Iran has, over the past decade, consolidated and deepened its presence and influence in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, the Gaza Strip, and Yemen. The focus for the coming years will be Israel’s need to contend with Iran’s continued entrenchment in Syria and Lebanon and the potential for direct confrontation between them in these arenas.
For a deeper understanding of the challenges Iran poses to Israel, the Iran research field monitors its regional activities. The Iran research field maintains ties with leading research institutes around the world, conducts simulations with Israeli and foreign entities, maintains regular brainstorming forums with experts from the academic and governmental community, and conducts regular briefings for foreign diplomats serving in Israel, as well as for journalists from Israel and abroad.
An operation in Iran in response to the Houthi attacks could escalate the region into a broader conflict, and it is doubtful whether it would alter the actions of the Yemeni terror organization
The Rebel Offensive in Syria: Strategic Shift or Fleeting Incident?
What are the implications of the Syrian rebels’ surprise attack against the Assad regime, who are the players involved, and what are the consequences for Israel?
The Détente in the Middle East: Characteristics and Implications for Israel
The reduction of tensions and the deepening of cooperation between the countries of the region continue—while at the same time, the war in Israel is increasing its isolation. How should Israel act to get out of this complex situation?
Is Iran Really Turning from Islamic Theocracy to Military Autocracy?
With the approach of the Iranian presidential elections, there is increased discussion in Iran and in the West surrounding the possible election of a "military president," who will come from the ranks of the Revolutionary Guards and channel his military skills to the severe domestic and external challenges facing the Islamic Republic. While the standing of the Revolutionary Guards has strengthened in recent decades, and they play a prominent role in politics and the economy, any discussion of the "militarization" of the Iranian state must, inter alia, distinguish between direct intervention in politics by the Revolutionary Guards and the integration of former commanders in politics. In any case, the chances of the Revolutionary Guards taking over the Iranian political system seem slim as long as the current Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, holds the reins of power. Khamenei's death could accelerate the process of militarization of the Iranian state and perhaps even prepare the ground for an alternative model of governance, with far-reaching implications for Iran’s domestic and foreign policy.
