Who is fighting with Iran?
The Middle East has long been a region of geopolitical tensions and conflicts, and Iran has been at the center of many of these disputes. With its significant influence in the region, Iran has found itself in various conflicts and alliances. This article aims to explore the key actors who are currently fighting with Iran or are aligned against it in various capacities.
Iran’s Regional Rivalries
Iran’s primary regional rival is Saudi Arabia. The two countries have been engaged in a proxy war for years, with their proxy conflicts manifesting in Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. While neither country has directly engaged in full-scale military conflict, their proxies have been battling fiercely in these countries. In Yemen, Iran supports the Houthi rebels, while Saudi Arabia backs the Yemeni government. In Syria, Iran supports the Assad regime, while Saudi Arabia has been a leading opponent of the Syrian government.
The United States and Israel
The United States and Israel are also prominent adversaries of Iran in the Middle East. The U.S. has imposed strict economic sanctions on Iran, and its military presence in the region has been aimed at deterring Iranian expansionism. Israel, on the other hand, views Iran as a major threat to its security and has conducted numerous airstrikes against Iranian targets in Syria. Both countries have been involved in covert operations against Iran’s nuclear program and its regional allies.
Sunni Countries
Several Sunni-majority countries in the Middle East have joined forces to counter Iran’s influence. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, have been at odds with Iran over various issues, including regional security and political influence. These countries have formed alliances with the U.S. and Israel to counter Iran’s ambitions.
The Kurds
The Kurds, an ethnic group spread across Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria, have been fighting for autonomy and independence. While not directly fighting Iran, the Kurds have been at odds with the Iranian government over the rights of the Kurdish population in Iran. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has been involved in a decades-long conflict with the Turkish government, which also considers the PKK a terrorist organization. Iran has supported the PKK’s Syrian affiliate, the People’s Protection Units (YPG), in its fight against Islamic State (IS) in Syria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Iran’s involvement in various conflicts and its expansive influence in the Middle East have led to a complex array of adversaries. From regional rivals like Saudi Arabia and Turkey to global powers such as the United States and Israel, Iran’s actions have sparked tensions and proxy wars across the region. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these conflicts will unfold and what impact they will have on the future of the Middle East.
