How Did It Begin? The conflict was sparked by a series of targeted assassinations, covert sabotage operations against Iran's nuclear facilities, and mounting fears in Tehran that Israel would directly strike its highest religious and political leadership. Israel launched a surprise offensive, while Iran responded with a measured but strategic retaliation.

What Happened During the War?

• Iran launched missiles and drones, striking bases and sites that had never been targeted before.
• Israel conducted deep strikes inside Iranian territory, leveraging elite intelligence operations to eliminate senior scientists and military figures.
• The Trump administration’s backing enabled Israel to expand its reach and confidence.
• Eventually, the United States was pulled into the conflict, while Russia remained passive, choosing silent observation over intervention.

What Did Both Sides Experience?

• Israel faced attacks it did not anticipate and was unprepared for their scale and sophistication.
• Iran suffered damage to critical military infrastructure and air defense systems.
• The war destabilized the entire Middle East, dragging in neighboring states diplomatically and economically.
• The Gulf region’s economy was particularly affected, with oil prices fluctuating and investor confidence shaken.
• Civilians on both sides endured unprecedented levels of fear, confusion, and psychological trauma.

How Was the Ceasefire Reached?

• Israel’s air defense systems were breached, revealing vulnerabilities once thought impenetrable.
• Iran escalated by targeting U.S. military bases in the region, increasing global pressure.
• The U.S., Turkey, Qatar, and Russia launched intense backchannel mediation efforts.
• Facing mounting pressure, Israel agreed to a unilateral ceasefire, which Iran hailed as a defensive success.

Outcome of the Ceasefire

• The war transitioned into a "cold conflict" phase.
• The truce mirrors the Yemen model: uneasy peace interspersed with sporadic flare-ups and proxy skirmishes.
• No side emerged as a clear victor—both paid heavy costs, militarily, economically, and politically.

What Are the Long-Term Lessons?

• Iran has learned that a full-scale war with Israel risks national devastation.
• Israel now knows that without full U.S. backing, it risks existential exposure in prolonged conflict.
• The international community has witnessed that modern warfare is no longer about firepower alone — it’s driven by intelligence, cyber capabilities, economic pressure, and narrative control.
• By Dahir Alasow – Investigative Journalist