US’ entry into Israel’s war with Iran has widened the conflict in the Middle East. Before the latest move by the US President Donald Trump, there were at least four escalations by either side leading up to the risk of a full-blown global conflict.
1 / 51. Hamas’ Surprise October 2023 Escalates Iran-Israel Tensions | On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an unexpected and large-scale assault on southern Israel, coinciding with a major Jewish holiday. Backed by Iran’s Quds Force, the group fired thousands of rockets and breached Israeli territory by land, sea, and air. The attack killed around 1,200 people and saw about 250 taken hostage. It marked one of the deadliest days in Israel’s history and triggered a prolonged military response. (Image: Reuters)
2 / 52. Strike on Iranian Consulate in Damascus | On April 1, 2024, an Israeli airstrike targeted a building inside Iran’s diplomatic premises in Damascus, Syria. The strike reportedly killed 16 people, including senior Iranian commander Mohammad Reza Zahedi, Hezbollah operatives, and civilians. The incident drew international condemnation and intensified tensions between Israel and Iran over actions in the Syrian conflict zone. (Image: Reuters)
3 / 53. Assassination of Hamas Chief in Tehran | On July 31, 2024, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran along with his bodyguard at a military-controlled guesthouse. Iranian authorities blamed Israel for a targeted strike, possibly involving a concealed explosive device. The incident disrupted ceasefire talks and further strained Middle East relations, with Israel later confirming responsibility for the operation. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 54. Iran’s Missile Barrage on Israel | In October 2024, Iran fired around 200 missiles at Israel, including the advanced Fattah hypersonic ballistic missiles, in a two-phase assault from near Tehran. While Israel’s defense systems intercepted many, missile fragments caused injuries and infrastructure damage. The attack sharply escalated tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv, pushing the region closer to open conflict.
5 / 55. US Formally Enters Israel-Iran Conflict | Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated on June 13 when Israel launched ‘Operation Rising Lion,’ targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran responded with drone and missile strikes on Tel Aviv and Haifa, killing civilians and damaging infrastructure, including the US Embassy. After reviewing military options, the Trump administration authorised direct airstrikes and formally entered the conflict on June 22 by targeting three Iranian nuclear facilities. (Image: Reuters)
