The world is watching closely as the latest Israel vs Iran conflict escalates dramatically. On paper, Israel — a nation of 9 million — is facing off against Iran’s 88 million strong population. But military strength is not measured by numbers alone. Israel’s highly advanced, US-backed military is proving capable of taking on Iran’s much larger forces.
Israel’s Achievements So Far: Air Superiority Over Tehran
Israel has already claimed significant victories in the air war. Its modern fleet of US-made fighters, including the advanced F-35 jets, have established air superiority over Tehran. Iran’s outdated air force has failed to launch a meaningful aerial response.
Israel’s air force has strategically targeted Iran’s ground-based radar and missile launchers. Earlier strikes in October crippled Iran’s S-300 air defence systems. Israel’s Mossad intelligence operatives have reportedly used smuggled drones to further dismantle Iran’s defensive capabilities from within.
In addition, Israeli strikes have eliminated several top-level Iranian military commanders, severely impacting Tehran’s ability to coordinate a robust response Israel vs Iran.
Israel vs Iran Remaining Capabilities: Missiles Still a Threat
Despite the losses, Iran retains a formidable missile arsenal. Prior to Israeli attacks, the US assessed that Iran possessed the largest ballistic missile stockpile in the Middle East, with estimates ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 missiles.
Israel claims to have destroyed one-third of Iran’s surface-to-surface missile launchers. Still, Iran has continued to fire volleys of missiles into Israel, some of which have penetrated the Iron Dome and other missile defence systems.
Justin Bronk from the UK defence think tank RUSI states that while Israel may claim air superiority, it has not yet achieved full air dominance. Iran’s short-range missile systems continue to pose a serious threat Israel vs Iran.
Iran’s Allies: Diminished but Not Neutralized
Iran has historically supported regional proxies such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. However, Israeli military campaigns over the past two years have significantly weakened these groups:
- Hamas has been largely dismantled in Gaza.
- Hezbollah’s capacity to retaliate has been greatly reduced.
- The Houthi rebels in Yemen remain active but distant, occasionally launching missiles at Israel.
While these groups remain potential threats, their weakened state limits Iran’s ability to open multiple fronts against Israel.
The Global Risk: Could the Conflict Expand?
Beyond the immediate warzone, the conflict holds wider implications. Iran-backed militias in Iraq have already targeted Western military bases, prompting the US and UK to increase their military presence in the region.
The Straight of Hormuz, one of the world’s key oil shipping lanes, remains vulnerable to Iranian disruption, raising fears of global economic fallout if Tehran chooses to escalate further.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has recently deployed additional RAF Typhoon jets to Cyprus, while US naval forces remain stationed in Bahrain, ready to respond if necessary.
US Support: The Backbone of Israel’s Military Edge
Israel’s military dominance owes much to massive US military aid. Billions of dollars of US funding equip Israel’s air force with cutting-edge technology and weaponry:
- F-35 fighter jets
- Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defence systems
- Precision-guided bunker-busting bombs
- Intelligence and logistical support
Yet, certain restrictions remain. The US has so far denied Israel access to the Massive Ordnance Penetrator — a 30,000-pound bomb that could penetrate Iran’s heavily fortified underground nuclear facility at Fordow. Without it, fully neutralizing Iran’s nuclear program remains beyond reach.
While President Donald Trump continues to support Israel’s campaign, reports suggest he vetoed a plan to target Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, indicating the limits of US backing.
Can Israel Achieve Its Long-Term Goals?
Despite its military edge, Israel faces limitations. Airstrikes may delay Iran’s nuclear ambitions but are unlikely to destroy the program completely. Toppling the Iranian regime also remains highly improbable through military means alone.
As history has shown — from Libya in 2011 to ongoing conflicts in Gaza — air power can cause devastation but rarely delivers decisive victories.
For more updates on related conflicts, read our full report on Israel’s Gaza Offensive 2025.
Authoritative Sources
- BBC News – Israel’s military campaign against Iran explained
- Reuters – Analysis: Israel’s limited military options in Iran conflict
