Iran and the pro-Iranian axis in the Middle East present both immediate and long-term challenges to Israel. Iran’s nuclear program, along with long-range missile systems and UAVs in the hands of its proxies, poses a significant strategic risk to Israel’s national security. In addition, Iran's regional influence through its proxies and partners in Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and the Palestinian arena also poses a significant challenge to Israel. Although the pro-Iranian axis in the region has suffered heavy blows since October 7th, particularly in light of Israel’s operational successes against Hezbollah and Hamas, as well as the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, Iran has not yet abandoned its regional ambitions.
The “Iran and Shiite Axis” program seeks to advance research in key areas related to Iran, including its nuclear program, military buildup, foreign relations, regional activities, and domestic situation. The program also focuses on the activities of Iran’s regional allies, particularly Hezbollah, Shiite militias in Iraq, and the Houthis in Yemen. This research serves as the foundation for developing a comprehensive strategy to counter Iran and the Shiite axis, and for proposing policy recommendations to contain the threats they pose to Israel.
