Israel-Hamas War Iran and Its Proxies

Key Findings:

This explainer examines the involvement of Iran and its affiliated non-state actors in the Israel-Hamas conflict before and since the October 7, 2023, attacks. Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and militias in Iraq and Syria, have amplified their regional activities since October 7. While their actions remain calibrated to avoid provoking full-scale war, their involvement underscores Iran’s central role in fostering anti-Israel hostility.

Iran

Background: Iran opposes Israel ideologically and militarily, aiming to undermine its existence through support for proxy militias like Hamas and Hezbollah. The regime also pursues nuclear capabilities, further intensifying regional tensions.

Since October 7: While there is no evidence Iran directly planned Hamas' attack, it provides significant support to Hamas and other proxies. Iran’s proxies have increased attacks on Israeli and U.S. targets, though not on a full-scale. Recent missile and drone attacks by Iran were intercepted through international coordination.

Hamas

Background: A Sunni Islamist group and Palestinian nationalist movement, Hamas controls Gaza and is supported by Iran. It has long been a principal adversary of Israel.

Since October 7: Hamas orchestrated the attack and remains the main combatant against Israel. Despite significant Israeli advances in Gaza, Hamas vows continued resistance. Its influence extends beyond Gaza, with cells in the West Bank and political offices abroad.

Hezbollah

Background: A Lebanese Shi’ite group backed by Iran, Hezbollah wields significant political and military power and maintains an arsenal larger than many states.

Since October 7: Hezbollah has escalated skirmishes along the Israel-Lebanon border but avoided full-scale war, likely due to U.S. deterrence and Iranian restraint. Israel fears further escalation, which could prompt a broader conflict in the region.

Houthis

Background: An Iranian-aligned group in Yemen, the Houthis have shown hostility toward Israel, though they are not a key player in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Since October 7: They have launched drone and missile attacks against Israel and disrupted Red Sea shipping, signaling solidarity with Hamas and the Palestinians.

Iraqi and Syrian Militias

Background: Iran-backed Shi’ite militias in Iraq and Syria are part of its broader Axis of Resistance, targeting U.S. and Israeli interests.

Since October 7: These militias have increased attacks on U.S. forces in the region but have not directly targeted Israel. U.S. forces have responded with strikes against militant infrastructure.