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List of wars involving Iran

Updated: 5/20/2026, 7:44:32 PM Wikipedia source

This is a list of wars involving the Islamic Republic of Iran, excluding its predecessor states. It is an unfinished historical overview.

Tables

· Major conflicts
Iranian Revolution (1978–1979) Part of the Constitutionalization attempts in Iran and the Cold War
Iranian Revolution (1978–1979) Part of the Constitutionalization attempts in Iran and the Cold War
Conflict
Iranian Revolution (1978–1979) Part of the Constitutionalization attempts in Iran and the Cold War
Iran (and allies)
Revolutionary Council Islamist Opposition Combatant Clergy Association Islamic Association of Students Islamic Association of Teachers Islamic Association of Engineers Islamic Association of Physicians Islamic Coalition Societies Fada'iyan-e Islam Mojahedin Liberal Democratic Opposition Freedom Movement of Iran National Front JAMA D
Opponents
Imperial State of Iran Pro-Shah Groups Regency Council Rastakhiz Party (until 1 November 1978) Imperial Army Imperial Guard SAVAK Shahrbani Gendarmerie
Results
Revolutionaries' victory
Notes
Revolutionaries' victory Overthrow of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and the monarchy End of Pahlavi Iran Establishment of an Interim Government Constitution of the Islamic Republic replaced Persian Constitution of 1906 with referendum Ruhollah Khomeini becomes the Supreme Leader Iran hostage crisis Arab League–Iran relations deteriorates. Beginning
Aftermath of the Iranian Revolution (1979–1983) Haft-e Tir bombing 1981 Iranian Prime Minister's office bombing Part of Terrorism in Iran and the Cold War
Aftermath of the Iranian Revolution (1979–1983) Haft-e Tir bombing 1981 Iranian Prime Minister's office bombing Part of Terrorism in Iran and the Cold War
Conflict
Aftermath of the Iranian Revolution (1979–1983) Haft-e Tir bombing 1981 Iranian Prime Minister's office bombing Part of Terrorism in Iran and the Cold War
Iran (and allies)
Political: Islamic Republican Party Combatant Clergy Association Islamic Coalition Society Armed groups: Armed Forces Artesh (Army) IRGC Others: Revolutionary Committees Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution Organization Muslim Student Followers of the Imam's Line
Opponents
Political: Freedom Movement National Front JAMA Movement of Militant Muslims Nation Party Muslim People's Republic Party National Democratic Front National Resistance Movement of Iran Pan-Iranist Party Azadegan Armed groups: MEK Tudeh Party Peykar Furqan NEQAB Union of Iranian Communists Union of Communist Militants Workers' Way
Results
Islamic Republican Party victory
Notes
Islamic Republican Party victory Ruhollah Khomeini consolidates power Referendum and establishment of Islamic Republic of Iran Iran hostage crisis and resignation of the Provisional Revolutionary Government Rebellions in Kordestan, Khuzestan, Khorasan and Baluchistan suppressed NEQAB coup d'état failed Impeachment and exile of Abolhassan Bani
1979 Iranian ethnic unrest Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Azerbaijani separatism and Kurdish separatism in Iran
1979 Iranian ethnic unrest Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Azerbaijani separatism and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Conflict
1979 Iranian ethnic unrest Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Azerbaijani separatism and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Iran (and allies)
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran
Opponents
Azerbaijani rebelsKurdish rebelsAhwazi rebelsTurkmen rebelsQashqai rebelsSupported by: Iraq
Results
Victory
Notes
Suppression of all revolts
1979 Turkmen rebellion in Iran (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
1979 Turkmen rebellion in Iran (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Conflict
1979 Turkmen rebellion in Iran (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
Iranian Turkmen rebels
Results
Victory
Notes
Uprising crushed.
1979 Kurdish rebellion in Iran (1979–1996) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Iran–Iraq War, and Kurdish separatism in Iran
1979 Kurdish rebellion in Iran (1979–1996) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Iran–Iraq War, and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Conflict
1979 Kurdish rebellion in Iran (1979–1996) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Iran–Iraq War, and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Iran (and allies)
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran (1980−83)
Opponents
KDP-I Komala IPFG OIPFG (Minority) Sipay Rizgari Supported by: Iraq
Results
Victory
Notes
Iranian forces mostly diverted to the Iran–Iraq War front since late 1980 Pockets of KDPI resistance remained until 1996
1979 Khuzestan insurgency (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution and Arab separatism in Khuzestan
1979 Khuzestan insurgency (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution and Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Conflict
1979 Khuzestan insurgency (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution and Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Iran (and allies)
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran (From 6 November)
Opponents
DRFLA APCO PFLA AFLA Supported by: Iraq
Results
Victory
Notes
Iranian victory Uprising quelled DRFLA siege of Iranian embassy in 1980
Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988) Part of the Cold War, the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Iraqi–Kurdish conflict, the Assadist–Saddamist conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988) Part of the Cold War, the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Iraqi–Kurdish conflict, the Assadist–Saddamist conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988) Part of the Cold War, the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Iraqi–Kurdish conflict, the Assadist–Saddamist conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran KDP PUK ISCI Islamic Dawa Party  Hezbollah Shia volunteers from: Afghanistan Abuzar Brigade Iraq Badr Organization  Lebanon  Hezbollah  Pakistan Tehreek-e-Jafaria (Pakistan) Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan  Kuwait  Bahrain  India
Opponents
Iraq DRFLA MEK NCRI PDKI Salvation Force Arab volunteers from:  Egypt  Jordan  Morocco  North Yemen  Sudan  Tunisia
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Status quo ante bellum
Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war, Arab–Israeli conflict, Arab Cold War and Cold War.
Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war, Arab–Israeli conflict, Arab Cold War and Cold War.
Conflict
Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war, Arab–Israeli conflict, Arab Cold War and Cold War.
Iran (and allies)
Hezbollah (1982–1990) Iran (from 1980, mainly IRGC and Army paramilitary units)
Opponents
Lebanese Front Kataeb Party Lebanese Forces Marada Brigades (until 1978) Guardians of the Cedars Al-Tanzim Lebanese Youth Movement (MKG) Tyous Team of Commandos Zahliote Group Shuraya Party Vanguard of the Maani Army (MDJ) (Other minor organizations) Army of Free Lebanon (until 1977) SLA (from 1976) Israel (from 1978) Tigers Militia (un
Results
Compromise
Notes
Taif Agreement Christian-to-Muslim representation in Parliament of Lebanon adjusted from ratio of 55:45 to 50:50. Political powers of Muslim-reserved position of Prime Minister strengthened over Christian-reserved position of President. Disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias, excluding Iran-backed Hezbollah. Continued hostilities b
1982 Lebanon War (1982) Part of the Lebanese Civil War
1982 Lebanon War (1982) Part of the Lebanese Civil War
Conflict
1982 Lebanon War (1982) Part of the Lebanese Civil War
Iran (and allies)
PLO Syria Lebanese National Resistance Front Al-Mourabitoun PKK Supported by:  Iran  Hezbollah
Opponents
Israel Lebanese Forces (16 September 1982) South Lebanon Army
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
PLO withdrawal from Lebanon End of the Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon Israeli occupation of Southern Lebanon Beginning of the Southern Lebanon conflict
1982 Amol uprising (1982) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
1982 Amol uprising (1982) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Conflict
1982 Amol uprising (1982) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
Union of Iranian Communists
Results
Victory
Notes
UIC leadership is dismantled.
KDPI–Komala conflict (1984−1991)
KDPI–Komala conflict (1984−1991)
Conflict
KDPI–Komala conflict (1984−1991)
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
KDP-I Komala
Results
Victory
Notes
Both armed forces debilitate and Iran maintain control of Iranian Kurdistan.
KDPI insurgency (1989–1996)
KDPI insurgency (1989–1996)
Conflict
KDPI insurgency (1989–1996)
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
KDP-I
Results
Victory
Notes
KDPI announces unilateral cease-fire in 1996.
Afghan Civil War (1996–2001) 1998 killing of Iranian diplomats in Afghanistan Eastern Iran clashes Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Afghan Civil War (1996–2001) 1998 killing of Iranian diplomats in Afghanistan Eastern Iran clashes Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Conflict
Afghan Civil War (1996–2001) 1998 killing of Iranian diplomats in Afghanistan Eastern Iran clashes Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Iran (and allies)
Islamic State of Afghanistan (Northern Alliance) Supported by:  Russia  Iran  Uzbekistan  India  Tajikistan
Opponents
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (Taliban)  Haqqani network  Al-Qaeda Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Supported by:  Pakistan
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Development of the Six plus Two Group on Afghanistan. United States invasion of Afghanistan
Arab civil unrest and insurgency on Khuzestan (1999−2020) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Arab civil unrest and insurgency on Khuzestan (1999−2020) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Arab civil unrest and insurgency on Khuzestan (1999−2020) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
ASMLA NLMA Ansar Al-Furqan Supported by:  Iraq (until 2003)  Saudi Arabia
Results
Victory
Notes
Revolts suppressed
War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) (until 2002) United States invasion of Afghanistan 2001 uprising in Herat Part of the war on terror, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) (until 2002) United States invasion of Afghanistan 2001 uprising in Herat Part of the war on terror, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Conflict
War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) (until 2002) United States invasion of Afghanistan 2001 uprising in Herat Part of the war on terror, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Iran (and allies)
United States  United Kingdom Northern Alliance  Canada  Italy  Germany  Australia  New Zealand  Iran (until 2002)
Opponents
Taliban Haqqani Network Al-Qaeda055 Brigade Foreign fighters
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Fall of the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Iran quits the coalition and forms the Axis of Resistance after the Axis of evil speech, ending its collaboration with the US coalition.
Third Pakistani-Balochistan Conflict (2004–present) 2010 attack on Pakistan ambassador to Iran
Third Pakistani-Balochistan Conflict (2004–present) 2010 attack on Pakistan ambassador to Iran
Conflict
Third Pakistani-Balochistan Conflict (2004–present) 2010 attack on Pakistan ambassador to Iran
Iran (and allies)
Pakistan Forces involved: Pakistan Armed Forces  Pakistan Army (until 2008, again from 2024)  Pakistan Air Force  Pakistan Navy Special Forces: SSG SSW SSG-N Pakistan Marines Civil Armed Forces Frontier Corps Frontier Corps Balochistan (North) Frontier Corps Balochistan (South) Pakistan Coast Guards Pakistan Levies Frontier Constab
Opponents
Baloch separatist factions BLA Majeed Brigade Fateh Squad BLF Baloch Raaji Aajoi Sangar LeB (inactive) BLUF (2009–2010) BSO (Azad) (inactive) BNA (2022–2023) BRA (2006–2022) UBA (2013–2022) Other Baloch Separatist groups Sectarian factions Ansar Al-Furqan (since 2013) Jaysh al-Adl (since 2012) Harakat Ansar (2012–13) H
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Extension of the conflict into Iran Operation Azm-e-Istehkam continuous in Pakistan
Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency (2004–present) 2024 Iranian missile strikes in Pakistan Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar
Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency (2004–present) 2024 Iranian missile strikes in Pakistan Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar
Conflict
Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency (2004–present) 2024 Iranian missile strikes in Pakistan Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar
Iran (and allies)
Iran Iranian Armed Forces Artesh (since 1979)  Ground Forces  Air Force Navy Special forces: NOHED Brigade 3rd Marine Brigade IRGC (since 1980) Ground Forces Aerospace Force Navy Basij Special forces: Saberin Takavar Brigade 110th Salman Farsi Special Operations Brigade Sepah Navy Special Force Iranian police Border Guard
Opponents
Current: Jaish ul-Adl (2013–present) Ansar Al-Furqan (2013–present) BLA BLF Former: Jundallah (2004–2011) Harakat Ansar (2012–2013)
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ongoing insurgency
Iran–PJAK Conflict (2004–present) Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran
Iran–PJAK Conflict (2004–present) Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran
Conflict
Iran–PJAK Conflict (2004–present) Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran
Iran (and allies)
Iran  Turkey
Opponents
PJAK
Results
Ongoing
Notes
PJAK withdraws from Iranian territory
2006 Lebanon War (2006) Part of the Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Iran–Israel proxy conflict and the war on terror
2006 Lebanon War (2006) Part of the Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Iran–Israel proxy conflict and the war on terror
Conflict
2006 Lebanon War (2006) Part of the Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Iran–Israel proxy conflict and the war on terror
Iran (and allies)
Hezbollah Amal Movement Lebanese Communist Party Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command Syrian Social Nationalist Party in Lebanon Supported by:  Iran Ba'athist Syria
Opponents
Israel
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Israel occupies Ghajar until present
Afghanistan–Iran border skirmishes (2007–2023) 2009 Afghanistan–Iran clash 2021 Afghanistan–Iran clashes 2023 Afghanistan–Iran clash part of Afghan conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Afghanistan–Iran border skirmishes (2007–2023) 2009 Afghanistan–Iran clash 2021 Afghanistan–Iran clashes 2023 Afghanistan–Iran clash part of Afghan conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Conflict
Afghanistan–Iran border skirmishes (2007–2023) 2009 Afghanistan–Iran clash 2021 Afghanistan–Iran clashes 2023 Afghanistan–Iran clash part of Afghan conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  Afghanistan
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Status quo ante bellum
War on ISIS (2013–ongoing) Iran-Islamic State conflict
War on ISIS (2013–ongoing) Iran-Islamic State conflict
Conflict
War on ISIS (2013–ongoing) Iran-Islamic State conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iraq  Iraqi Kurdistan Free Syrian Army Rojava United States  United Kingdom  Jordan  Turkey  Saudi Arabia  Bahrain  Qatar  United Arab Emirates  Morocco  Australia  Belgium  Canada  France  Germany  Denmark  Norway  Russia  Iran
Opponents
Islamic State Sinai Province Lebanon Province Yemen Province Khorasan Province Pakistan Province Caucasus Province al-Nusra Front Khorasan
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Successful repression against ISIS guerrilla warfare. Russia–Syria–Iran–Iraq coalition is formed.
Syrian Civil War (2011–2024) Iranian intervention in Syria Hezbollah involvement in the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israe
Syrian Civil War (2011–2024) Iranian intervention in Syria Hezbollah involvement in the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israe
Conflict
Syrian Civil War (2011–2024) Iranian intervention in Syria Hezbollah involvement in the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israe
Iran (and allies)
Iran (since 2013) Ba'athist Syria Iraq (2017–19)  Hezbollah  Russia
Opponents
Free Syrian Army Supported By:  United States  United Kingdom  France  Germany  Italy  Netherlands  Belgium  Denmark Norway  Canada  Australia  Morocco  Bahrain Qatar Jordan  United Arab Emirates Islamic Front Supported By:  Turkey  Saudi Arabia  Qatar Ahrar al-Sham Tahrir al-Sham al-Nusra Front ISIL Al-Qaeda  Autonomous
Results
Defeat
Notes
Islamic State in Syria defeated near the end of 2017. Assad regime falls and Iranian forces withdraw after 2024 Syrian opposition offensives, starting Assadist loyalist revolts. The Syrian Salvation Government and the Syrian Interim Government develops the Syrian caretaker government. Beginning of resistance by SSNP and allies against Israel aft
War in Iraq (2013–2017) Iranian intervention in Iraq (2014–present) part of War against the Islamic State and Iran-Islamic State conflict
War in Iraq (2013–2017) Iranian intervention in Iraq (2014–present) part of War against the Islamic State and Iran-Islamic State conflict
Conflict
War in Iraq (2013–2017) Iranian intervention in Iraq (2014–present) part of War against the Islamic State and Iran-Islamic State conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iraq Peshmerga  Iran Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Badr Organization  Hezbollah Kata'ib Hezbollah Kata'ib al-Imam Ali Kataib Rouh Allah Issa Ibn Miriam  United States
Opponents
Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant Naqshbandi Army
Results
Victory
Notes
Iraqi government and allied victory against ISIL Iran played a significant role in this victory. End of ISIL territorial control in Iraq; ongoing ISIL insurgency
Yemeni civil war (2014–present) Houthi–Saudi Arabian conflict Al-Qaeda insurgency in Yemen part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israel conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Yemeni civil war (2014–present) Houthi–Saudi Arabian conflict Al-Qaeda insurgency in Yemen part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israel conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Conflict
Yemeni civil war (2014–present) Houthi–Saudi Arabian conflict Al-Qaeda insurgency in Yemen part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israel conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Iran (and allies)
Supreme Political Council (formerly SRC)  Houthis GPC (pro-Houthi) Saleh loyalists (until 2017) Pro-Houthi Popular Committees Sanaa-GPC forcesSupported by:  Iran  Hezbollah Ba'athist Syria (until 2024)  Qatar  North Korea
Opponents
Republic of Yemen (internationally-recognized; led by the PLC since 2022) Yemeni Armed Forces Republican Guard GPC STC (2022–present)  United Arab Emirates National Resistance (2017–present) Tihamah Resistance Giants Brigades Hadhramaut Tribal Alliance Al-Islah Bani Dhabyan Saleh loyalists (2017–present) Popular Resistance Popular
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ceasefire since 2 April 2022 with some periodic clashes. Iranian support for the Houthis is consolidated.
Iran–Pakistan border skirmishes (2014–2024) 2024 Iran–Pakistan conflict 2024 Saravan killings Part of the insurgency in Balochistan and Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency
Iran–Pakistan border skirmishes (2014–2024) 2024 Iran–Pakistan conflict 2024 Saravan killings Part of the insurgency in Balochistan and Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency
Conflict
Iran–Pakistan border skirmishes (2014–2024) 2024 Iran–Pakistan conflict 2024 Saravan killings Part of the insurgency in Balochistan and Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency
Iran (and allies)
Iran Claimed by Pakistan: Baloch nationalists: Balochistan Liberation Army Balochistan Liberation Front
Opponents
Pakistan Claimed by Iran: Jihadists: Jaish ul-Adl
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Ceasefire. Pakistan and Iran develops joint operations against Baloch separatism.
Western Iran clashes (2016–present) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Western Iran clashes (2016–present) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Western Iran clashes (2016–present) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
PDKI PJAK Komala PAK Khebat
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Restart of armed resistance against the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, eastern Kurdistan has not yet become a Kurdish state.
Islamic State insurgency in Iraq (2017–present) Part of Iraqi conflict
Islamic State insurgency in Iraq (2017–present) Part of Iraqi conflict
Conflict
Islamic State insurgency in Iraq (2017–present) Part of Iraqi conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iraq Pro-government tribes (ar) Rojava (cross-border cooperation since May 2018) Supported by: CJTF-OIR (until 2021)  United States  United Kingdom  France  Iran  Russia  Kurdistan Region Peshmerga Supported by:  Netherlands
Opponents
Islamic State White Flags
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Continuation of the conflict against Islamic State 2019–2021 Iraqi protests against Iranian influence Clashes between US and Iran and allies in the context of the Second Cold War.
2019–2021 Persian Gulf crisis (2019–2021) May 2019 Gulf of Oman incident June 2019 Gulf of Oman incident 2019 Iranian shoot-down of American drone Abqaiq–Khurais attack 2019 K-1 Air Base attack December 2019 United States airstrikes in Iraq and Syria Attack on the United States embassy in Baghdad Assassination of Qasem Soleimani Operation
2019–2021 Persian Gulf crisis (2019–2021) May 2019 Gulf of Oman incident June 2019 Gulf of Oman incident 2019 Iranian shoot-down of American drone Abqaiq–Khurais attack 2019 K-1 Air Base attack December 2019 United States airstrikes in Iraq and Syria Attack on the United States embassy in Baghdad Assassination of Qasem Soleimani Operation
Conflict
2019–2021 Persian Gulf crisis (2019–2021) May 2019 Gulf of Oman incident June 2019 Gulf of Oman incident 2019 Iranian shoot-down of American drone Abqaiq–Khurais attack 2019 K-1 Air Base attack December 2019 United States airstrikes in Iraq and Syria Attack on the United States embassy in Baghdad Assassination of Qasem Soleimani Operation
Iran (and allies)
Iran Supported by:  Iraq Ba'athist Syria  Houthis
Opponents
United States Supported by:  Saudi Arabia  Israel  United Kingdom
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
2019–2020 Iranian protests. Funeral of Qasem Soleimani. American withdrawal from Iraqi conflict.
Gaza war (2023–present) 2023 Israel–Lebanon border clashes 2023 attacks on U . bases in Iraq and Syria 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Red Sea crisis Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), Gaza–Israel conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Gaza war (2023–present) 2023 Israel–Lebanon border clashes 2023 attacks on U . bases in Iraq and Syria 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Red Sea crisis Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), Gaza–Israel conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Gaza war (2023–present) 2023 Israel–Lebanon border clashes 2023 attacks on U . bases in Iraq and Syria 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Red Sea crisis Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), Gaza–Israel conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Hamas Palestinian allies:  Palestinian Islamic Jihad  Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine  Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades Palestinian Mujahideen Movement Palestinian Freedom Movement  Popular Resistance Committees  Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command Suppor
Opponents
Israel Israeli-backed groups:  Popular Forces Fatah-affiliated groups Supported by:  United States  United Kingdom  France Only intelligence support:  Saudi Arabia  United Arab Emirates  Jordan
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Iranian proxy groups initiate offensives against US military bases. Hamas is severely weakened. Entire leadership of Hezbollah wiped off and the organization is severely contained with a lot of their arms and military assets destroyed or dismantled. Economic and military loss to Houthi with both their ports and airport destroyed. The pro-Iranian
Spillover of the Gaza war in Syria (2023–present) 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus Turkish offensive in Northern Syria Israeli invasion of Syria Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of the 2023 Gaza war, 2023 Middle Eastern crisis, Hezbollah–Israel conflict (2023–present), Iran–Israel con
Spillover of the Gaza war in Syria (2023–present) 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus Turkish offensive in Northern Syria Israeli invasion of Syria Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of the 2023 Gaza war, 2023 Middle Eastern crisis, Hezbollah–Israel conflict (2023–present), Iran–Israel con
Conflict
Spillover of the Gaza war in Syria (2023–present) 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus Turkish offensive in Northern Syria Israeli invasion of Syria Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of the 2023 Gaza war, 2023 Middle Eastern crisis, Hezbollah–Israel conflict (2023–present), Iran–Israel con
Iran (and allies)
Assadists (former Ba'athist Syria) Islamic Resistance Front in Syria Supported by:  Iran (until 2024) Popular Mobilization Forces  Hezbollah Palestinian militias Syria (former opposition) Supported by:  Turkey Ukraine (denied by Ukraine)
Opponents
Israel Druze allies Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria CJTF–OIR  United States
Results
Ongoing
Notes
2024 Syrian insurgency leads to the Fall of the Assad regime and Iranian withdrawal of its direct presence in Syria, depending of proxys like Assadist insurgents. Start of Syrian conflict (2024–present).
Red Sea crisis (2023–present) Operation Sankalp Operation Prosperity Guardian March–May 2025 United States attacks in Yemen Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), and the Yemeni civil war (2014–present
Red Sea crisis (2023–present) Operation Sankalp Operation Prosperity Guardian March–May 2025 United States attacks in Yemen Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), and the Yemeni civil war (2014–present
Conflict
Red Sea crisis (2023–present) Operation Sankalp Operation Prosperity Guardian March–May 2025 United States attacks in Yemen Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), and the Yemeni civil war (2014–present
Iran (and allies)
Axis of Resistance  Houthis  Iran  Hezbollah Islamic Resistance in Iraq
Opponents
Israel Prosperity Guardian:  United States  United Kingdom  Australia  Bahrain  Canada  Denmark  New Zealand  Norway  Seychelles  Singapore  Sri Lanka  Aspides:  European Union Belgium  Estonia  Finland  France  Germany  Greece  Italy  Latvia  Netherlands  Sweden Independent Patrols:  China  Egypt  India  Pakistan  Saudi Arabia
Results
Ongoing
Notes
2025 United States–Houthi ceasefire. Attacks resumed after 2026 Israeli–United States strikes on Iran
Twelve-Day War (2025) United States strikes on Iranian nuclear sites part of Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present)
Twelve-Day War (2025) United States strikes on Iranian nuclear sites part of Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present)
Conflict
Twelve-Day War (2025) United States strikes on Iranian nuclear sites part of Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present)
Iran (and allies)
Iran  Houthi movement Supported by:  Hamas  Hezbollah Islamic Resistance in Iraq
Opponents
Israel  United States Supported by:  France  Iranian opposition Only defensive support:  Jordan  Saudi Arabia  Qatar  Iraq
Results
Ceasefire
Notes
Ceasefire was mediated by the United States and Qatar. Suspension of 2025 Iran–United States negotiations. Israel destroys Iran's nuclear sites, one of its primary objectives. Houthis increase their hostility to Israel and USA. 2025–present Iran internal crisis: Iranian opposition to the Iranian government and Ayatollah Khamenei increases. Ira
2025–2026 Iranian protests 2025–present Iran internal crisis 2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis
2025–2026 Iranian protests 2025–present Iran internal crisis 2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis
Conflict
2025–2026 Iranian protests 2025–present Iran internal crisis 2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis
Iran (and allies)
Government of Iran Iranian Armed Forces: Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces Police Command  Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Basij Nabi Akram Corps  Ground Forces Pro-government counterprotesters and plainclothesmen Pro-government foreign Shia militias Popular Mobilisation Forces Kata'ib Hezbollah Harakat al-Nujaba Kata'ib Sayyi
Opponents
Iranian opposition Anti-government demonstrators Student demonstrators Police and military defectors Armed civilians Political groups: Iran National Council (INC) Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) Solidarity for a Secular Democratic Republic in Iran Separatist groups: Kurdish separatists Democratic Pa
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Increase of Iranian economic crisis and risk of civil war 2026 Internet blackout in Iran Western support to protesters leads to 2026 Iran–United States crisis.
Conflict
Iran (and allies)
Opponents
Results
Notes
Iranian Revolution (1978–1979) Part of the Constitutionalization attempts in Iran and the Cold War
Revolutionary Council Islamist Opposition Combatant Clergy Association Islamic Association of Students Islamic Association of Teachers Islamic Association of Engineers Islamic Association of Physicians Islamic Coalition Societies Fada'iyan-e Islam Mojahedin Liberal Democratic Opposition Freedom Movement of Iran National Front JAMA D
Imperial State of Iran Pro-Shah Groups Regency Council Rastakhiz Party (until 1 November 1978) Imperial Army Imperial Guard SAVAK Shahrbani Gendarmerie
Revolutionaries' victory
Revolutionaries' victory Overthrow of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and the monarchy End of Pahlavi Iran Establishment of an Interim Government Constitution of the Islamic Republic replaced Persian Constitution of 1906 with referendum Ruhollah Khomeini becomes the Supreme Leader Iran hostage crisis Arab League–Iran relations deteriorates. Beginning
Aftermath of the Iranian Revolution (1979–1983) Haft-e Tir bombing 1981 Iranian Prime Minister's office bombing Part of Terrorism in Iran and the Cold War
Political: Islamic Republican Party Combatant Clergy Association Islamic Coalition Society Armed groups: Armed Forces Artesh (Army) IRGC Others: Revolutionary Committees Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution Organization Muslim Student Followers of the Imam's Line
Political: Freedom Movement National Front JAMA Movement of Militant Muslims Nation Party Muslim People's Republic Party National Democratic Front National Resistance Movement of Iran Pan-Iranist Party Azadegan Armed groups: MEK Tudeh Party Peykar Furqan NEQAB Union of Iranian Communists Union of Communist Militants Workers' Way
Islamic Republican Party victory
Islamic Republican Party victory Ruhollah Khomeini consolidates power Referendum and establishment of Islamic Republic of Iran Iran hostage crisis and resignation of the Provisional Revolutionary Government Rebellions in Kordestan, Khuzestan, Khorasan and Baluchistan suppressed NEQAB coup d'état failed Impeachment and exile of Abolhassan Bani
1979 Iranian ethnic unrest Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Azerbaijani separatism and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran
Azerbaijani rebelsKurdish rebelsAhwazi rebelsTurkmen rebelsQashqai rebelsSupported by: Iraq
Victory
Suppression of all revolts
1979 Turkmen rebellion in Iran (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Iran
Iranian Turkmen rebels
Victory
Uprising crushed.
1979 Kurdish rebellion in Iran (1979–1996) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution, Iran–Iraq War, and Kurdish separatism in Iran
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran (1980−83)
KDP-I Komala IPFG OIPFG (Minority) Sipay Rizgari Supported by: Iraq
Victory
Iranian forces mostly diverted to the Iran–Iraq War front since late 1980 Pockets of KDPI resistance remained until 1996
1979 Khuzestan insurgency (1979) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution and Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Interim Government Islamic Republic of Iran (From 6 November)
DRFLA APCO PFLA AFLA Supported by: Iraq
Victory
Iranian victory Uprising quelled DRFLA siege of Iranian embassy in 1980
Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988) Part of the Cold War, the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, the Iraqi–Kurdish conflict, the Assadist–Saddamist conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran KDP PUK ISCI Islamic Dawa Party Hezbollah Shia volunteers from: Afghanistan Abuzar Brigade Iraq Badr Organization Lebanon Hezbollah Pakistan Tehreek-e-Jafaria (Pakistan) Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan Kuwait Bahrain India
Iraq DRFLA MEK NCRI PDKI Salvation Force Arab volunteers from: Egypt Jordan Morocco North Yemen Sudan Tunisia
Inconclusive
Status quo ante bellum
Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war, Arab–Israeli conflict, Arab Cold War and Cold War.
Hezbollah (1982–1990) Iran (from 1980, mainly IRGC and Army paramilitary units)
Lebanese Front Kataeb Party Lebanese Forces Marada Brigades (until 1978) Guardians of the Cedars Al-Tanzim Lebanese Youth Movement (MKG) Tyous Team of Commandos Zahliote Group Shuraya Party Vanguard of the Maani Army (MDJ) (Other minor organizations) Army of Free Lebanon (until 1977) SLA (from 1976) Israel (from 1978) Tigers Militia (un
Compromise
Taif Agreement Christian-to-Muslim representation in Parliament of Lebanon adjusted from ratio of 55:45 to 50:50. Political powers of Muslim-reserved position of Prime Minister strengthened over Christian-reserved position of President. Disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias, excluding Iran-backed Hezbollah. Continued hostilities b
1982 Lebanon War (1982) Part of the Lebanese Civil War
PLO Syria Lebanese National Resistance Front Al-Mourabitoun PKK Supported by: Iran Hezbollah
Israel Lebanese Forces (16 September 1982) South Lebanon Army
Inconclusive
PLO withdrawal from Lebanon End of the Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon Israeli occupation of Southern Lebanon Beginning of the Southern Lebanon conflict
1982 Amol uprising (1982) Part of the Consolidation of the Iranian Revolution
Iran
Union of Iranian Communists
Victory
UIC leadership is dismantled.
KDPI–Komala conflict (1984−1991)
Iran
KDP-I Komala
Victory
Both armed forces debilitate and Iran maintain control of Iranian Kurdistan.
KDPI insurgency (1989–1996)
Iran
KDP-I
Victory
KDPI announces unilateral cease-fire in 1996.
Afghan Civil War (1996–2001) 1998 killing of Iranian diplomats in Afghanistan Eastern Iran clashes Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Islamic State of Afghanistan (Northern Alliance) Supported by: Russia Iran Uzbekistan India Tajikistan
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (Taliban) Haqqani network Al-Qaeda Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Supported by: Pakistan
Stalemate
Development of the Six plus Two Group on Afghanistan. United States invasion of Afghanistan
Arab civil unrest and insurgency on Khuzestan (1999−2020) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran
ASMLA NLMA Ansar Al-Furqan Supported by: Iraq (until 2003) Saudi Arabia
Victory
Revolts suppressed
War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) (until 2002) United States invasion of Afghanistan 2001 uprising in Herat Part of the war on terror, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
United States United Kingdom Northern Alliance Canada Italy Germany Australia New Zealand Iran (until 2002)
Taliban Haqqani Network Al-Qaeda055 Brigade Foreign fighters
Inconclusive
Fall of the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Iran quits the coalition and forms the Axis of Resistance after the Axis of evil speech, ending its collaboration with the US coalition.
Third Pakistani-Balochistan Conflict (2004–present) 2010 attack on Pakistan ambassador to Iran
Pakistan Forces involved: Pakistan Armed Forces Pakistan Army (until 2008, again from 2024) Pakistan Air Force Pakistan Navy Special Forces: SSG SSW SSG-N Pakistan Marines Civil Armed Forces Frontier Corps Frontier Corps Balochistan (North) Frontier Corps Balochistan (South) Pakistan Coast Guards Pakistan Levies Frontier Constab
Baloch separatist factions BLA Majeed Brigade Fateh Squad BLF Baloch Raaji Aajoi Sangar LeB (inactive) BLUF (2009–2010) BSO (Azad) (inactive) BNA (2022–2023) BRA (2006–2022) UBA (2013–2022) Other Baloch Separatist groups Sectarian factions Ansar Al-Furqan (since 2013) Jaysh al-Adl (since 2012) Harakat Ansar (2012–13) H
Ongoing
Extension of the conflict into Iran Operation Azm-e-Istehkam continuous in Pakistan
Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency (2004–present) 2024 Iranian missile strikes in Pakistan Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar
Iran Iranian Armed Forces Artesh (since 1979) Ground Forces Air Force Navy Special forces: NOHED Brigade 3rd Marine Brigade IRGC (since 1980) Ground Forces Aerospace Force Navy Basij Special forces: Saberin Takavar Brigade 110th Salman Farsi Special Operations Brigade Sepah Navy Special Force Iranian police Border Guard
Current: Jaish ul-Adl (2013–present) Ansar Al-Furqan (2013–present) BLA BLF Former: Jundallah (2004–2011) Harakat Ansar (2012–2013)
Ongoing
Ongoing insurgency
Iran–PJAK Conflict (2004–present) Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran
Iran Turkey
PJAK
Ongoing
PJAK withdraws from Iranian territory
2006 Lebanon War (2006) Part of the Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Iran–Israel proxy conflict and the war on terror
Hezbollah Amal Movement Lebanese Communist Party Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command Syrian Social Nationalist Party in Lebanon Supported by: Iran Ba'athist Syria
Israel
Inconclusive
Israel occupies Ghajar until present
Afghanistan–Iran border skirmishes (2007–2023) 2009 Afghanistan–Iran clash 2021 Afghanistan–Iran clashes 2023 Afghanistan–Iran clash part of Afghan conflict and Iran-Taliban conflict
Iran
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Afghanistan
Stalemate
Status quo ante bellum
War on ISIS (2013–ongoing) Iran-Islamic State conflict
Iraq Iraqi Kurdistan Free Syrian Army Rojava United States United Kingdom Jordan Turkey Saudi Arabia Bahrain Qatar United Arab Emirates Morocco Australia Belgium Canada France Germany Denmark Norway Russia Iran
Islamic State Sinai Province Lebanon Province Yemen Province Khorasan Province Pakistan Province Caucasus Province al-Nusra Front Khorasan
Ongoing
Successful repression against ISIS guerrilla warfare. Russia–Syria–Iran–Iraq coalition is formed.
Syrian Civil War (2011–2024) Iranian intervention in Syria Hezbollah involvement in the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israe
Iran (since 2013) Ba'athist Syria Iraq (2017–19) Hezbollah Russia
Free Syrian Army Supported By: United States United Kingdom France Germany Italy Netherlands Belgium Denmark Norway Canada Australia Morocco Bahrain Qatar Jordan United Arab Emirates Islamic Front Supported By: Turkey Saudi Arabia Qatar Ahrar al-Sham Tahrir al-Sham al-Nusra Front ISIL Al-Qaeda Autonomous
Defeat
Islamic State in Syria defeated near the end of 2017. Assad regime falls and Iranian forces withdraw after 2024 Syrian opposition offensives, starting Assadist loyalist revolts. The Syrian Salvation Government and the Syrian Interim Government develops the Syrian caretaker government. Beginning of resistance by SSNP and allies against Israel aft
War in Iraq (2013–2017) Iranian intervention in Iraq (2014–present) part of War against the Islamic State and Iran-Islamic State conflict
Iraq Peshmerga Iran Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Badr Organization Hezbollah Kata'ib Hezbollah Kata'ib al-Imam Ali Kataib Rouh Allah Issa Ibn Miriam United States
Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant Naqshbandi Army
Victory
Iraqi government and allied victory against ISIL Iran played a significant role in this victory. End of ISIL territorial control in Iraq; ongoing ISIL insurgency
Yemeni civil war (2014–present) Houthi–Saudi Arabian conflict Al-Qaeda insurgency in Yemen part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Hezbollah–Israel conflict and Iran-Al Qaeda conflict
Supreme Political Council (formerly SRC) Houthis GPC (pro-Houthi) Saleh loyalists (until 2017) Pro-Houthi Popular Committees Sanaa-GPC forcesSupported by: Iran Hezbollah Ba'athist Syria (until 2024) Qatar North Korea
Republic of Yemen (internationally-recognized; led by the PLC since 2022) Yemeni Armed Forces Republican Guard GPC STC (2022–present) United Arab Emirates National Resistance (2017–present) Tihamah Resistance Giants Brigades Hadhramaut Tribal Alliance Al-Islah Bani Dhabyan Saleh loyalists (2017–present) Popular Resistance Popular
Ongoing
Ceasefire since 2 April 2022 with some periodic clashes. Iranian support for the Houthis is consolidated.
Iran–Pakistan border skirmishes (2014–2024) 2024 Iran–Pakistan conflict 2024 Saravan killings Part of the insurgency in Balochistan and Sistan and Baluchestan insurgency
Iran Claimed by Pakistan: Baloch nationalists: Balochistan Liberation Army Balochistan Liberation Front
Pakistan Claimed by Iran: Jihadists: Jaish ul-Adl
Inconclusive
Ceasefire. Pakistan and Iran develops joint operations against Baloch separatism.
Western Iran clashes (2016–present) Part of Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran
PDKI PJAK Komala PAK Khebat
Ongoing
Restart of armed resistance against the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, eastern Kurdistan has not yet become a Kurdish state.
Islamic State insurgency in Iraq (2017–present) Part of Iraqi conflict
Iraq Pro-government tribes (ar) Rojava (cross-border cooperation since May 2018) Supported by: CJTF-OIR (until 2021) United States United Kingdom France Iran Russia Kurdistan Region Peshmerga Supported by: Netherlands
Islamic State White Flags
Ongoing
Continuation of the conflict against Islamic State 2019–2021 Iraqi protests against Iranian influence Clashes between US and Iran and allies in the context of the Second Cold War.
2019–2021 Persian Gulf crisis (2019–2021) May 2019 Gulf of Oman incident June 2019 Gulf of Oman incident 2019 Iranian shoot-down of American drone Abqaiq–Khurais attack 2019 K-1 Air Base attack December 2019 United States airstrikes in Iraq and Syria Attack on the United States embassy in Baghdad Assassination of Qasem Soleimani Operation
Iran Supported by: Iraq Ba'athist Syria Houthis
United States Supported by: Saudi Arabia Israel United Kingdom
Inconclusive
2019–2020 Iranian protests. Funeral of Qasem Soleimani. American withdrawal from Iraqi conflict.
Gaza war (2023–present) 2023 Israel–Lebanon border clashes 2023 attacks on U . bases in Iraq and Syria 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Red Sea crisis Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of Iran–Israel proxy conflict, Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), Gaza–Israel conflict and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Hamas Palestinian allies: Palestinian Islamic Jihad Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades Palestinian Mujahideen Movement Palestinian Freedom Movement Popular Resistance Committees Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command Suppor
Israel Israeli-backed groups: Popular Forces Fatah-affiliated groups Supported by: United States United Kingdom France Only intelligence support: Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Jordan
Ongoing
Iranian proxy groups initiate offensives against US military bases. Hamas is severely weakened. Entire leadership of Hezbollah wiped off and the organization is severely contained with a lot of their arms and military assets destroyed or dismantled. Economic and military loss to Houthi with both their ports and airport destroyed. The pro-Iranian
Spillover of the Gaza war in Syria (2023–present) 2024 Iran–Israel conflict Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus Turkish offensive in Northern Syria Israeli invasion of Syria Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Part of the 2023 Gaza war, 2023 Middle Eastern crisis, Hezbollah–Israel conflict (2023–present), Iran–Israel con
Assadists (former Ba'athist Syria) Islamic Resistance Front in Syria Supported by: Iran (until 2024) Popular Mobilization Forces Hezbollah Palestinian militias Syria (former opposition) Supported by: Turkey Ukraine (denied by Ukraine)
Israel Druze allies Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria CJTF–OIR United States
Ongoing
2024 Syrian insurgency leads to the Fall of the Assad regime and Iranian withdrawal of its direct presence in Syria, depending of proxys like Assadist insurgents. Start of Syrian conflict (2024–present).
Red Sea crisis (2023–present) Operation Sankalp Operation Prosperity Guardian March–May 2025 United States attacks in Yemen Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), and the Yemeni civil war (2014–present
Axis of Resistance Houthis Iran Hezbollah Islamic Resistance in Iraq
Israel Prosperity Guardian: United States United Kingdom Australia Bahrain Canada Denmark New Zealand Norway Seychelles Singapore Sri Lanka Aspides: European Union Belgium Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Italy Latvia Netherlands Sweden Independent Patrols: China Egypt India Pakistan Saudi Arabia
Ongoing
2025 United States–Houthi ceasefire. Attacks resumed after 2026 Israeli–United States strikes on Iran
Twelve-Day War (2025) United States strikes on Iranian nuclear sites part of Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present)
Iran Houthi movement Supported by: Hamas Hezbollah Islamic Resistance in Iraq
Israel United States Supported by: France Iranian opposition Only defensive support: Jordan Saudi Arabia Qatar Iraq
Ceasefire
Ceasefire was mediated by the United States and Qatar. Suspension of 2025 Iran–United States negotiations. Israel destroys Iran's nuclear sites, one of its primary objectives. Houthis increase their hostility to Israel and USA. 2025–present Iran internal crisis: Iranian opposition to the Iranian government and Ayatollah Khamenei increases. Ira
2025–2026 Iranian protests 2025–present Iran internal crisis 2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis
Government of Iran Iranian Armed Forces: Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces Police Command Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Basij Nabi Akram Corps Ground Forces Pro-government counterprotesters and plainclothesmen Pro-government foreign Shia militias Popular Mobilisation Forces Kata'ib Hezbollah Harakat al-Nujaba Kata'ib Sayyi
Iranian opposition Anti-government demonstrators Student demonstrators Police and military defectors Armed civilians Political groups: Iran National Council (INC) Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) Solidarity for a Secular Democratic Republic in Iran Separatist groups: Kurdish separatists Democratic Pa
Ongoing
Increase of Iranian economic crisis and risk of civil war 2026 Internet blackout in Iran Western support to protesters leads to 2026 Iran–United States crisis.
2026 Iran war Lebanon theater Beit Awwa salon strike Israel attack on UNIFIL post in Aadchit al-Qusayr Syrian campaign Iraqi campaign Kurdistan Region US–Israel conflict with pro-Iran Iraqi militias Arabian monarchies campaign Jordan Kuwait Saudi Arabia Bahrain Qatar United Arab Emirates Oman Red Sea campaign List of attacks Iranian-Sh
Iran Supported by: Axis of Resistance: Hezbollah Houthi movement Kata'ib Hezbollah Popular Mobilization Forces Islamic Resistance in Iraq Hamas Palestinian Islamic Jihad Russia (intelligence only) Non-aligned attacked by Israel: Amal Movement Islamic Group Lebanese Forces Cobelligerent attacked by both: Iraq Iraqi Kurdistan
Israel United States Supported by: Iranian opposition Monarchists NCRI CPFIK Ahwaz Falcons In defense only: NATO: Bulgaria France Germany Greece Italy Netherlands Spain Turkey Northern Cyprus United Kingdom Akrotiri and Dhekelia British Indian Ocean Territory Australia Canada Ukraine Non-aligned attacked by Iran
Ongoing
2025–2026 Iran–United States negotiations 2026 United States military buildup in the Middle East Iranian officials killed during the 2026 Iran conflict Assassination of Ali Khamenei 2026 Israeli state of emergency Iran Prosperity Project proposed by the National Union for Democracy in Iran and House of Pahlavi Anti-war protesters and Shiite co
· Minor conflicts, proxy wars, military incidents and alleged interventions
Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon (1968–1982) Part of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Lebanese Civil War, and the Arab Cold War
Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon (1968–1982) Part of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Lebanese Civil War, and the Arab Cold War
Conflict
Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon (1968–1982) Part of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Lebanese Civil War, and the Arab Cold War
Iran (and allies)
Palestine Liberation Organization  Syria Lebanese National Movement Lebanese National Resistance Front Supported by:  Soviet Union People's Revolutionary Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran (1979–1980)
Opponents
Israel South Lebanon Army Lebanese Forces
Results
Defeat
Notes
1982 kidnapping of Iranian diplomats. Beginning of the South Lebanon conflict. Mohammad Montazeri (son of Grand Ayatollah Hussein-Ali Montazeri) and Mehdi Hashemi creates the Liberation Movements Unit to Export revolution in the Levant. Factional conflicts, as different Iranian factions promoted Hezbollah or Amal.
Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (11 February 1979–present) 1979 Qatif Uprising 1987 Mecca incident Houthi insurgency Operation Scorched Earth Saudi-led intervention in Bahrain Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon 2011 alleged Iran assassination plot 2011–2012 Saudi Arabian protests Saudi-led intervention in the Yemeni civil war Saudi in
Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (11 February 1979–present) 1979 Qatif Uprising 1987 Mecca incident Houthi insurgency Operation Scorched Earth Saudi-led intervention in Bahrain Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon 2011 alleged Iran assassination plot 2011–2012 Saudi Arabian protests Saudi-led intervention in the Yemeni civil war Saudi in
Conflict
Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (11 February 1979–present) 1979 Qatif Uprising 1987 Mecca incident Houthi insurgency Operation Scorched Earth Saudi-led intervention in Bahrain Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon 2011 alleged Iran assassination plot 2011–2012 Saudi Arabian protests Saudi-led intervention in the Yemeni civil war Saudi in
Iran (and allies)
Iran Proxies: Hezbollah Al-Hejaz Syrian Popular Resistance (since 2024) OIRAP (1979–1988) Liwa Fatemiyoun  Houthis  Syria (until 2024) Popular Mobilization Forces Al-Ashtar Brigades Al-Mukhtar Brigades  Hezbollah Hamas Hüseynçilər Muslim Brotherhood Liwa Zainebiyoun IMN Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan
Opponents
Saudi Arabia Proxies: FSA (until 2017) Syria (since 2024) KDPI Jaish ul-Adl PJAK Komala LNA ANR ASMLA PNA PAK  Yemen JRTN (from 2006) LF MEK Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ongoing February 2019 Warsaw Conference Formation of an Arab–Israeli alliance and the Axis of Resistance.
Assadist–Saddamist conflict (22 July 1979–2024) part of the Arab Cold War (until 1990), Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (until 1990), Iraq–Syria relations, and Shia–Sunni conflict (until 1990)
Assadist–Saddamist conflict (22 July 1979–2024) part of the Arab Cold War (until 1990), Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (until 1990), Iraq–Syria relations, and Shia–Sunni conflict (until 1990)
Conflict
Assadist–Saddamist conflict (22 July 1979–2024) part of the Arab Cold War (until 1990), Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (until 1990), Iraq–Syria relations, and Shia–Sunni conflict (until 1990)
Iran (and allies)
Assadists Ba'ath Party (Syrian-dominated faction) Ba'ath Party – Syria Region Assadists in Iraq Al-Awda (alleged) Assadists in other Arab states  Ba'athist Syria (until 2024) Syrian Popular Resistance (from 2024) Supported by:  Iran  Hezbollah  Iraq (from 2004) Popular Mobilization Forces Badr Organization ISCI Iraqi Shia militi
Opponents
Saddamists Ba'ath Party (Iraqi-dominated faction) Ba'ath Party – Iraq Region Saddamists in Syria Saddamists in other Arab states  Ba'athist Iraq (until 2003) JRTN (from 2006) Supported by: MEK (until 2003)  United States (until 1990)  United Kingdom (until 1990)  West Germany (until 1990)  Italy (until 1990)  Egypt (until 1990)
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Inconclusive Saddamists ousted from power in Iraq in 2003 Assadists ousted from power in Syria in 2024
Qatif conflict (1979–2023) part of the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Anti-Shia discrimination in Saudi Arabia, Arab Spring and the Shia-Sunni conflict
Qatif conflict (1979–2023) part of the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Anti-Shia discrimination in Saudi Arabia, Arab Spring and the Shia-Sunni conflict
Conflict
Qatif conflict (1979–2023) part of the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Anti-Shia discrimination in Saudi Arabia, Arab Spring and the Shia-Sunni conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran-backed Shia militants (1980s–1990s) Organization for the Islamic Revolution in the Arabian Peninsula (1979–91) Hezbollah Al-Hejaz (1987–2023; mostly inactive from 1990s) Saudi Shia civilians
Opponents
Saudi Arabian Government Saudi Arabian National Guard Presidency of State Security Saudi Police
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Conflict ended
Soviet–Afghan War (1979–1989) Foreign involvement in the Soviet–Afghan War 1982 Harmak incident 1988 Shindand SuperCobra incident Part of Afghan conflict and the Cold War in Asia
Soviet–Afghan War (1979–1989) Foreign involvement in the Soviet–Afghan War 1982 Harmak incident 1988 Shindand SuperCobra incident Part of Afghan conflict and the Cold War in Asia
Conflict
Soviet–Afghan War (1979–1989) Foreign involvement in the Soviet–Afghan War 1982 Harmak incident 1988 Shindand SuperCobra incident Part of Afghan conflict and the Cold War in Asia
Iran (and allies)
Afghan Mujahideen Sunni Mujahideen Supported by:  Pakistan Shia Mujahideen and Hazaras Tehran Eight Supported by:  Iran Maoist Mujahideen Supported by:  People's Republic of China
Opponents
Soviet Union  Afghanistan Al Zulfiqar
Results
Victory
Notes
Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. Iran backed Hezbe Wahdat is formed. Increase of Afghans in Iran as refugees.
Sectarian violence in Pakistan (1947−Present) Insurgency in Balochistan Killing of Iranian Diplomats in Pakistan (1997−2000) Part of Terrorism in Pakistan and Shia-Sunni divide
Sectarian violence in Pakistan (1947−Present) Insurgency in Balochistan Killing of Iranian Diplomats in Pakistan (1997−2000) Part of Terrorism in Pakistan and Shia-Sunni divide
Conflict
Sectarian violence in Pakistan (1947−Present) Insurgency in Balochistan Killing of Iranian Diplomats in Pakistan (1997−2000) Part of Terrorism in Pakistan and Shia-Sunni divide
Iran (and allies)
Shia Groups: Tehreek-e-Jafaria Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan Ansar-ul-Hussain Khatam-ul-Anbia Supported by:  Iran (since 1979) Liwa Zainabiyoun
Opponents
Pakistan: Government of Pakistan Ministry of Defence Pakistan Armed Forces  Pakistan Army  Pakistan Air Force  Pakistan Navy Ministry of Interior  Civil Armed Forces Pakistan Levies Frontier Corps Pakistan Rangers Pakistan Coast Guards Gilgit Baltistan Scouts Federal Constabulary Pakistan Police Counter Terrorism Department Baloc
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Division of Shia Islamists between Pro-Khomeinism (favourable to Iran's Axis of Resistance) and Pro-Shariatmadari (critic to the Iranian Revolution), provocating a Rrivalry between Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan and Tehreek-e-Jaferia Pakistan. Pakistani Taliban announced re-insurgency in Pakistan.
Iranian Embassy siege (1980)
Iranian Embassy siege (1980)
Conflict
Iranian Embassy siege (1980)
Iran (and allies)
Iran  United Kingdom
Opponents
Democratic Revolutionary Front for the Liberation of Arabistan (DRFLA)
Results
Victory
Notes
Embassy recaptured after six-day siege
Tanker War (1981−1988) Action of June 5, 1984 Operation Earnest Will Operation Prime Chance Operation Praying Mantis part of Iran–Iraq War
Tanker War (1981−1988) Action of June 5, 1984 Operation Earnest Will Operation Prime Chance Operation Praying Mantis part of Iran–Iraq War
Conflict
Tanker War (1981−1988) Action of June 5, 1984 Operation Earnest Will Operation Prime Chance Operation Praying Mantis part of Iran–Iraq War
Iran (and allies)
Iran Supported by:  Pakistan
Opponents
Iraq Supported by:  United States  Saudi Arabia  Kuwait
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
UNSCR 598
Multinational Force in Lebanon (1982–1984) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Multinational Force in Lebanon (1982–1984) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Conflict
Multinational Force in Lebanon (1982–1984) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Iran (and allies)
Islamic Jihad Organization Iran  Ba'athist Syria Progressive Socialist Party Amal Movement
Opponents
United States  France  Italy  United Kingdom
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Syrian Allied victory Multinational forces fail to prevent collapse of Lebanese Army into Syrian- or Israeli- supported militias Multinational forces evacuated after the US embassy and US Marine barracks are bombed by the Islamic Jihad Organization Multinational forces oversee withdrawal of Palestine Liberation Organization Humanitarian crisis i
Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Conflict
Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Iran (and allies)
Sudan Armed Forces PDF Army of Peace Muraheleen Ex-FAR and Interahamwe SSDF SPLA dissidents SPLA-Nasir SPLA-United SSIM/A Nuer White Army Ugandan insurgents: LRA WNBF UNRF (II)  Zaire (1994–1997) al-Qaeda (1991–1996)  Iraq  China Combat aid:  Libya (1986–1991)  DR Congo (1998–2003) Non-combat aid:  Iran  Belarus (from 1996)
Opponents
SPLA SPLA-Mainstream SPLA-Agar SPDF ALF Titweng SSLM NDA Sudanese Alliance Forces Anyanya II Eastern Coalition Derg (until 1987) PDR Ethiopia (1987–1991) FDR Ethiopia (1995–1998)  Eritrea (1996–1998, 2002–2005)  Uganda (from 1993) Non-combat aid:  Libya (1983–1985)  Israel  Cuba (until 1991)
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Comprehensive Peace Agreement
1983–1986 Kurdish rebellions in Iraq Part of Iran–Iraq War and Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
1983–1986 Kurdish rebellions in Iraq Part of Iran–Iraq War and Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
Conflict
1983–1986 Kurdish rebellions in Iraq Part of Iran–Iraq War and Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
Iran (and allies)
KDP Supported by:  Iran PUK Kurdish mujahideen
Opponents
Iraq
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Long term Kurdish tactical failure
Iran–Israel proxy conflicts (1985−present) Hezbollah–Israel conflict Karine A affair Francop Affair 2009 Sudan airstrikes Victoria Affair 2012 Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Operation Full Disclosure Operation Northern
Iran–Israel proxy conflicts (1985−present) Hezbollah–Israel conflict Karine A affair Francop Affair 2009 Sudan airstrikes Victoria Affair 2012 Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Operation Full Disclosure Operation Northern
Conflict
Iran–Israel proxy conflicts (1985−present) Hezbollah–Israel conflict Karine A affair Francop Affair 2009 Sudan airstrikes Victoria Affair 2012 Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Operation Full Disclosure Operation Northern
Iran (and allies)
Iran Proxies:  Hezbollah Hamas (2006–2011; 2017–present) Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) (2013–present) Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command (PFLP–GC) (2013–present) Sabireen Movement (until 2019)  Houthis / Popular Mobilization Units National Defence Fo
Opponents
Israel Proxies: South Lebanon Army (until 2000) Fursan al-Joulan (2013–19) Popular Forces of Palestine (2024–present) Support:  United States  United Kingdom (Operation Iron Shield only)  France (Operation Iron Shield only)
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ongoing Iran reinforces Syria and Hezbollah Iranian support for Hamas is consolidated Israel tries to prevent weapon transfers to Hezbollah 2006 Lebanon War ends in military stalemate and Israeli withdrawal Beginning of the ongoing Gaza–Israel conflict in June 2006 Israel tries to stop the Iranian nuclear program Iran grows major spheres of
War of Brothers (1988–1990) Part of Lebanese Civil War
War of Brothers (1988–1990) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Conflict
War of Brothers (1988–1990) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Iran (and allies)
Hezbollah Lebanese Islamic Resistance Supported by:  Iran
Opponents
Amal Movement Lebanese Resistance Regiments Supported by: Syria
Results
Inconclussive
Notes
Reconciliation between the two parties.
Afghan Civil War (1989–1992) Part of the Cold War, Revolutions of 1989, Dissolution of the Soviet Union, and Afghan conflict
Afghan Civil War (1989–1992) Part of the Cold War, Revolutions of 1989, Dissolution of the Soviet Union, and Afghan conflict
Conflict
Afghan Civil War (1989–1992) Part of the Cold War, Revolutions of 1989, Dissolution of the Soviet Union, and Afghan conflict
Iran (and allies)
Afghan Mujahideen Jamiat-e Islami Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (until July 1989) National Islamic Front of Afghanistan Ittehad-e Islami Hezb-i Islami Khalis Harakat-i Inqilab-i Islami Independent Factions: Khalq (1990) Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (from July 1989) Junbish-i Milli (from 1992) Foreign Fighters: Al Qaeda Maktab al-Khidamat V
Opponents
Government of Afghanistan Supported by: Soviet Union (until 1991) Commonwealth of Independent States (from 1991) Tajikistan Turkmenistan  Uzbekistan India
Results
Victory
Notes
Dissolution of the Homeland Party Government The Peshawar Accord leads to the creation of the Islamic State of Afghanistan on 28 April 1992 Continued civil war among Mujahideen forces
1991 Iraqi uprisings Part of the aftermath of the Gulf War
1991 Iraqi uprisings Part of the aftermath of the Gulf War
Conflict
1991 Iraqi uprisings Part of the aftermath of the Gulf War
Iran (and allies)
Shia and leftist elements of opposition: SCIRI/Badr Brigades Dawa Communist Party Pro-Syrian Ba'athists Army deserters/defectors Kurdish rebels: Peshmerga: KDP PUK IMK CPK Jash deserters/defectors PDKI Diplomatic support:  United States Military support:  Iran
Opponents
Ba'athist Iraq Ba'ath Party Iraqi Army Republican Guard Special Republican Guard Popular Army General Security Intelligence Service Special Security Support: MEK
Results
Iraqi government military victory
Notes
Establishment of Kurdistan Region, facilitated by the imposition of the Iraqi no-fly zones by United States, United Kingdom and France. Iraqi Kurdish gets Kurdistan Region.
Bosnian War (1992–1995) Part of Yugoslav Wars
Bosnian War (1992–1995) Part of Yugoslav Wars
Conflict
Bosnian War (1992–1995) Part of Yugoslav Wars
Iran (and allies)
Bosnia and Herzegovina Military Support:  Iran (alleged) Quds Force  Herzeg-Bosnia  Croatia
Opponents
Republika Srpska  Serbian Krajina  SFR Yugoslavia (until 1992) Western Bosnia
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Breakup of Yugoslavia International recognition of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign state. Republika Srpska federates with Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Algerian Civil War (1992–2002) part of Arab Cold War and Algeria–Morocco rivalry
Algerian Civil War (1992–2002) part of Arab Cold War and Algeria–Morocco rivalry
Conflict
Algerian Civil War (1992–2002) part of Arab Cold War and Algeria–Morocco rivalry
Iran (and allies)
Islamic Salvation Front loyalists  Morocco Libya (until 1995)  Saudi Arabia (pre-war) Saudi private donors Armed Islamic Group (from 1993) Minor involvement:  Sudan (alleged)  Iran (alleged) Egyptian Islamic Jihad (until 1995) Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (from 1998) Minor involvement: Al-Qaeda
Opponents
Government of Algeria Minor involvement:  Egypt  Tunisia  France  European Union  South Africa
Results
Defeat
Notes
Algerian Government victory over the islamists.
Afghan Civil War (1992–1996) Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Afghan Civil War (1992–1996) Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Afghan Civil War (1992–1996) Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Hezb-i Wahdat (Dec. 1992–1995) Supported by:  Iran (Dec. 1992–1995) Junbish-i Milli (Jan.–Aug. 1994) Supported by:  Uzbekistan (Jan.–Aug. 1994)  Islamic State of Afghanistan List Northern Alliance Jamiat-e Islami NIFA IDOA Harakat-i Islami Junbish-i Milli (until Jan. 1994; from Aug. 1994) Hezb-i Wahdat (from 1995) Shura-e Nazar He
Opponents
Afghan Army and Airforce Remnants (allegedly, until October 1992) Regional Kandahar Militia Leaders Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (until late 1994) Supported by:  Pakistan (until late 1994)  Taliban (from late 1994)  Al-Qaeda (from early 1996) Supported by:  Pakistan (from late 1994)
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Inconclussive Taliban take control of Kabul and most of Afghanistan; Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan established Civil war continues (1996–2001)
Tajikistani Civil War (1992–1997) part of the post-Soviet conflicts and spillover of the Afghan Civil War (1992–1996)
Tajikistani Civil War (1992–1997) part of the post-Soviet conflicts and spillover of the Afghan Civil War (1992–1996)
Conflict
Tajikistani Civil War (1992–1997) part of the post-Soviet conflicts and spillover of the Afghan Civil War (1992–1996)
Iran (and allies)
United Tajik Opposition Islamic Renaissance Party Tajik Democratic Party Party of People's Unity Rastokhez Popular Movement Lali Badakhshan Afghanistan (until 1996) Jamiat-e Islami (until 1996) Supported by:  al-Qaeda Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Taliban  Iran (alleged, denied by Iran)
Opponents
/ Tajikistan Popular Front of Tajikistan Communist Party of Tajikistan Socialist Party of Tajikistan / Russia  Uzbekistan / Kazakhstan / Kyrgyzstan Supported by:  Belarus (weapons supplies) UNMOT  Austria  Bangladesh  Bulgaria  Czech Republic  Denmark  Ghana  Hungary  Indonesia  Jordan  Nepal  Nigeria  Poland  Switzerland  Ukra
Results
Defeat
Notes
Armistice
Iraqi Kurdish Civil War (1994–1997) Part of Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
Iraqi Kurdish Civil War (1994–1997) Part of Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
Conflict
Iraqi Kurdish Civil War (1994–1997) Part of Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
Iran (and allies)
PUK PKK SCIRI KCP Iraqi National Congress Supported by:  Iran (from 1995) Syria  United States (1996)
Opponents
KDP PDKI Supported by: Iraq (from 1995)  Turkey (from 1997)  Iran (before 1995)
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Washington Agreement PKK moved to Qandil mountains from Bekaa Valle
Iran-Hezbollah terrorist attacks in Argentina (1992–1994) 1992 Buenos Aires Israeli embassy bombing AMIA bombing Part of Iranian external operations and South Lebanon conflict (1985–2000)
Iran-Hezbollah terrorist attacks in Argentina (1992–1994) 1992 Buenos Aires Israeli embassy bombing AMIA bombing Part of Iranian external operations and South Lebanon conflict (1985–2000)
Conflict
Iran-Hezbollah terrorist attacks in Argentina (1992–1994) 1992 Buenos Aires Israeli embassy bombing AMIA bombing Part of Iranian external operations and South Lebanon conflict (1985–2000)
Iran (and allies)
Iran  Hezbollah Ansar Allah
Opponents
Argentina Argentine Jews Supported by: Israel
Results
Victory
Notes
Iranian attacks were successful.
1999 Shia uprising in Iraq Part of Prelude to the Iraq war
1999 Shia uprising in Iraq Part of Prelude to the Iraq war
Conflict
1999 Shia uprising in Iraq Part of Prelude to the Iraq war
Iran (and allies)
Rebels: SCIRI / Badr Dawa Supported by:  Iran
Opponents
Government of Iraq
Results
Defeat
Notes
Saddamist victory.
Iraqi Kurdistan conflict (2001–2003) Part of the Iraqi no-fly zones conflict, Iraq War, Islamism in Kurdistan, and the war on terror
Iraqi Kurdistan conflict (2001–2003) Part of the Iraqi no-fly zones conflict, Iraq War, Islamism in Kurdistan, and the war on terror
Conflict
Iraqi Kurdistan conflict (2001–2003) Part of the Iraqi no-fly zones conflict, Iraq War, Islamism in Kurdistan, and the war on terror
Iran (and allies)
Islamic Emirate of Kurdistan Ansar al-Islam Kurdistan Islamic Group Kurdistan Islamic Movement Supported by: Iran (alleged by PUK) KDP (alleged by PUK)
Opponents
Kurdistan Region PUK  United States (armed involvement after Viking Hammer)
Results
Defeat
Notes
Kurdistan Region–United States victory
War in Darfur (2003–2020) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars and Sudanese conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile
War in Darfur (2003–2020) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars and Sudanese conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile
Conflict
War in Darfur (2003–2020) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars and Sudanese conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile
Iran (and allies)
Sudan SAF Janjaweed RSF Chadian rebel groups Anti-Gaddafi forces (2011) Supported by:  Libya (2011–2020)  China  Iran (until 2016)  Russia  Belarus Syria (2000s, alleged)
Opponents
SRF (2006–2020) JEM (2003–2020) SLA (some factions) (2003–2020) LJM (2010–11) SLA (some factions) SARC (2014–2020) SLFA (2017–2020) SLA-Unity SLMJ JEM (Jali) Supported by:  South Sudan  Chad (2005–2010)  Eritrea (until 2008) Libya (until 2011)  Uganda (until 2015) UNAMID (2007–2020)
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Iran–Sudan relations improves against Western Bloc until breaking out in 2016 due to Sudanese intervention in the Yemeni civil war against Houthis. Darfur Peace Agreement and South Sudan independence referendum.
Iraqi insurgency (2003-2011) Iranian involvement in the Iraq War United States raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil Karbala provincial headquarters raid part of the Iraq War
Iraqi insurgency (2003-2011) Iranian involvement in the Iraq War United States raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil Karbala provincial headquarters raid part of the Iraq War
Conflict
Iraqi insurgency (2003-2011) Iranian involvement in the Iraq War United States raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil Karbala provincial headquarters raid part of the Iraq War
Iran (and allies)
United States  United Kingdom MNF–I (2003–09)  United States (2003–09)  United Kingdom (2003–09)  Australia (2003–09)  Romania (2003–09)  Azerbaijan (2003–08)  Kuwait (2003–08)  Estonia (2003–09)  El Salvador (2003–09)  Bulgaria (2003–08)  Moldova (2003–08)  Albania (2003–08)  Ukraine (2003–08)  Denmark (2003–08)  Czech Republic (200
Opponents
Ba'ath Party loyalists Fedayeen Saddam (2003 Only) Supreme Command for Jihad and Liberation (from 2007) Naqshbandi Army (from 2006) Supported by:  Syria Sunni insurgents Al-Qaeda Al-Qaeda in Iraq (2004–06) Islamic State of Iraq (from 2006) Islamic Army in Iraq Ansar al-Sunnah (2003–07) Iraqi Islamic Resistance Army other smalle
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Inconclusive 2003–2006 insurgency phase deteriorates into 2006–2008 civil war 20,000+ additional American soldiers deployed to Iraq to quell violence in troop surge of 2007 Coalition failure to defeat Iraqi insurgency End of American military presence in Iraq with 2007–2011 withdrawal Continued Iraqi conflict
Houthi insurgency (2004–2014) Operation Scorched Earth part of the Yemeni crisis and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Houthi insurgency (2004–2014) Operation Scorched Earth part of the Yemeni crisis and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Houthi insurgency (2004–2014) Operation Scorched Earth part of the Yemeni crisis and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Houthi Movement  Yemen (pro-Saleh forces) Alleged support by:  Iran  North Korea  Libya (until 2011)
Opponents
Yemen Security Forces Sunni tribes Al-Islah militias  Saudi Arabia Supported by:  Jordan  Morocco al-Qaeda Ansar al-Sharia
Results
Houthi victory
Notes
Houthi victory Conflict escalates into a full-scale civil war with the Yemeni government and foreign intervention Houthi rebels take over Sa'dah and establish an independent administration in Sa'dah Governorate and parts of 'Amran, Al Jawf and Hajjah. Houthis take control of Sanaa Yemeni government under President Hadi relocated from Sanaa to A
2004 Iranian seizure of Royal Navy personnel (2004)
2004 Iranian seizure of Royal Navy personnel (2004)
Conflict
2004 Iranian seizure of Royal Navy personnel (2004)
Iran (and allies)
Navy of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution Iranian Border Guard Command
Opponents
British Royal Navy
Results
Victory
Notes
Victory British naval personnel arrested 3 patrol boats seized
2005 Ahvaz unrest (2005) part of Arab separatism in Khuzestan
2005 Ahvaz unrest (2005) part of Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Conflict
2005 Ahvaz unrest (2005) part of Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Iran (and allies)
Iranian Government
Opponents
Iranian Arabs
Results
Victory
Notes
Unrest quelled
Fatah–Hamas conflict (2006–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence
Fatah–Hamas conflict (2006–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence
Conflict
Fatah–Hamas conflict (2006–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence
Iran (and allies)
Hamas Gaza Strip (after June 2007) Hamas/PJOR-affiliated groups in the West Bank (from 2022) Supported by: Iran Palestinian Joint Operations Room
Opponents
Fatah Palestinian Authority Fatah-affiliated groups in the Gaza Strip (from 2025) Supported by:  Israel
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Fatah–Hamas reconciliation process Hamas takeover of the Gaza Strip New Palestinian government in the West Bank
U . raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil (2007) part of Iraq War
U . raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil (2007) part of Iraq War
Conflict
U . raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil (2007) part of Iraq War
Iran (and allies)
Iran  Iraqi Kurdistan
Opponents
United States
Results
Defeat
Notes
Iranian diplomats captured by the US Iranian retaliatory raids against the US
2007 Iranian arrest of Royal Navy personnel (2007)
2007 Iranian arrest of Royal Navy personnel (2007)
Conflict
2007 Iranian arrest of Royal Navy personnel (2007)
Iran (and allies)
Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Border Guard Command
Opponents
Royal Navy
Results
Victory
Notes
Two British boats seized 15 Royal Navy personnel captured
Iranian Anti-piracy measures in Somalia (2008–present) part of Piracy in Somalia, war on terror and Somali Civil War
Iranian Anti-piracy measures in Somalia (2008–present) part of Piracy in Somalia, war on terror and Somali Civil War
Conflict
Iranian Anti-piracy measures in Somalia (2008–present) part of Piracy in Somalia, war on terror and Somali Civil War
Iran (and allies)
Somalia  UN  Iran  China  India  Russia  Arab League  Israel  NATO  European Union  Japan  South Korea  SADC
Opponents
Somali pirates
Results
Ongoing
Iran's incursions against the MEK in Iraq (2009–2013) 2011 raid on Camp Ashraf 2013 Camp Ashraf massacre Part of Iraqi conflict
Iran's incursions against the MEK in Iraq (2009–2013) 2011 raid on Camp Ashraf 2013 Camp Ashraf massacre Part of Iraqi conflict
Conflict
Iran's incursions against the MEK in Iraq (2009–2013) 2011 raid on Camp Ashraf 2013 Camp Ashraf massacre Part of Iraqi conflict
Iran (and allies)
Iran Iraq
Opponents
MEK Supported by: US
Results
Victory
Notes
The People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran is disarticulated in Iraq, fleeing to Albania.
Sixth Sa'dah War (2009–2010) Part of Yemeni crisis and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Sixth Sa'dah War (2009–2010) Part of Yemeni crisis and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Sixth Sa'dah War (2009–2010) Part of Yemeni crisis and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Houthis Alleged support: Iran Quds Force Hezbollah
Opponents
Yemen Hashed tribesmen Saudi Arabia Alleged support: Morocco Jordan
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Ceasefire after rebels accepted the government's truce conditions.
Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Conflict
Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Iran (and allies)
Al-Qaeda and allies Al-Shabaab AQAP AQIM Hizbul Islam (until 2010; 2012–2013) Alleged state allies:  Eritrea  Iran Quds Force  Qatar Alleged non-state allies: Houthis Somali pirates  Islamic State (since 2015) Somalia Wilayah Allies: IS-YP Somali pirates
Opponents
Somalia Somali Armed Forces Regional forces:  Galmudug Galmudug Security Force Ahlu Sunna Waljama'a (until 2018) Ma'awisley  Hirshabelle  Khatumo Southwestern Somalia Himan and Heeb (until 2015)  United States U . Army U . Marine Corps U . Air Force U . Navy CIA AFRICOM  China People's Armed Police  Turkey Turkish Land For
Results
Ongoing
Insurgency in Bahrain (2011–present) part of 2011 Bahraini uprising and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Insurgency in Bahrain (2011–present) part of 2011 Bahraini uprising and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Conflict
Insurgency in Bahrain (2011–present) part of 2011 Bahraini uprising and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Bahraini opposition Supported by:  Iran
Opponents
Bahrain Supported by: Peninsula Shield Force Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Kuwait
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ongoing
2011 attack on the British Embassy in Iran
2011 attack on the British Embassy in Iran
Conflict
2011 attack on the British Embassy in Iran
Iran (and allies)
United Kingdom Embassy at Tehran  Iran
Opponents
Anti-Western civilian protesters
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Defense of the Embassy is reinforced and Iranian government condemns the attacks.
2011–2012 Strait of Hormuz dispute (2011–2012)
2011–2012 Strait of Hormuz dispute (2011–2012)
Conflict
2011–2012 Strait of Hormuz dispute (2011–2012)
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
United States  United Kingdom  France  Australia
Results
Stalemate
Notes
Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz Multi-national flotilla established in Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea off coast of Iran EU sanctions enforced, banning the export of oil from Iran to the EU countries and freezing Iranian assets
Mali War (2012–present) Part of the War in the Sahel, war on terror and the War against the Islamic State
Mali War (2012–present) Part of the War in the Sahel, war on terror and the War against the Islamic State
Conflict
Mali War (2012–present) Part of the War in the Sahel, war on terror and the War against the Islamic State
Iran (and allies)
2012–2013  Mali 2013–2022/23  Mali  France MINUSMA  Chad (2013 only) Wagner Group (from 2021) Supported by: EUTM Mali Others  Angola  Australia  Belgium  Canada  Denmark  Germany  India  Iran  Italy  Japan  Namibia  Netherlands  Spain  United Arab Emirates  United Kingdom  United States 2023–present  Mali  Russia (202
Opponents
2012 MNLA Al-Qaeda AQIM Ansaru Ansar Dine MOJWA  Boko Haram 2012–15 CMA (from 2014) MNLA HCUA (from 2013) MAA-D (from 2013) 2023–24 CSP CMA GATIA (al-Mahmoud faction) 2024–present FLA Supported by:  Ukraine 2012–present CMI (2017–present) MAA (until 2013) Other armed groups and self-defense militias 2012–2017 A
Results
Ongoing
Jordanian-Syrian border conflict (2012–2018)
Jordanian-Syrian border conflict (2012–2018)
Conflict
Jordanian-Syrian border conflict (2012–2018)
Iran (and allies)
Syria Hezbollah Supported by: Iran Russia Islamic State Khalid ibn al-Walid Army
Opponents
Jordan Free Syrian Army Supported by: United States Ahrar al-Sham Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham
Results
Defeat
Notes
Jordan restores control over the Jordanian-Syrian border Syrian government loses a majority of the borders All infiltration attempts into Jordan foiled.
Iran's operations against the MEK in Albania (2016–ongoing) 2023 Raid on Camp Ashraf Part of Iranian external operations
Iran's operations against the MEK in Albania (2016–ongoing) 2023 Raid on Camp Ashraf Part of Iranian external operations
Conflict
Iran's operations against the MEK in Albania (2016–ongoing) 2023 Raid on Camp Ashraf Part of Iranian external operations
Iran (and allies)
Iran Albania
Opponents
MEK
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Ongoing.
2016 U .–Iran naval incident (2016)
2016 U .–Iran naval incident (2016)
Conflict
2016 U .–Iran naval incident (2016)
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
United States
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
Sailors released unharmed 15 hours later after negotiations
Marco Polo operation (2017–Present) Part of Iranian external operations
Marco Polo operation (2017–Present) Part of Iranian external operations
Conflict
Marco Polo operation (2017–Present) Part of Iranian external operations
Iran (and allies)
Iran Local Criminals
Opponents
Jewish lobby in Europe Supported by: Israel  Iranian opposition diaspora  France Germany
Results
Ongoing
Notes
The European Investigative Collaborations since 2023 starts an investigation of criminal networks contracted by Iran's terrorist cells, being arrested two attackers in 2024 by France–Germany collaboration. Further Joint statement on Iranian state threat activity in Europe and North America
2017 Iraqi–Kurdish conflict (2017)
2017 Iraqi–Kurdish conflict (2017)
Conflict
2017 Iraqi–Kurdish conflict (2017)
Iran (and allies)
Iraq Supported by: Iran
Opponents
Kurdistan Regional Government PKK PDKI PAK White Flags (alleged)
Results
Victory
Notes
Iraqi government forces defeat the Peshmerga and capture 20% of the territory controlled by the Kurdistan Region including the city of Kirkuk, along with the surrounding oil fields and border crossings.
Eastern Syria insurgency (2017–present) Part of the Rojava conflict, the Syrian civil war and the Syrian conflict
Eastern Syria insurgency (2017–present) Part of the Rojava conflict, the Syrian civil war and the Syrian conflict
Conflict
Eastern Syria insurgency (2017–present) Part of the Rojava conflict, the Syrian civil war and the Syrian conflict
Iran (and allies)
Islamic State Wilayat al-Sham Assad loyalists Supported by: Ba'athist Syria   Iran (alleged, until 6 December 2024)   Iraq (alleged) Syria (since 2024) Syrian Armed Forces Syrian National Army (until 2025) Ahrar al-Sharqiya Gathering of the Eastern Martyrs Harakat al-Qiyam Revolutionaries in the Land of Deir ez-Zor Special Tasks Battali
Opponents
Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria Syrian Democratic Forces Self-Defence Forces (HXP) Internal Security Forces (Asayish) Pro-SDF Arab tribes CJTF–OIR  United States  France United Kingdom  Canada  Germany  Saudi Arabia Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK, claimed by Turkey, ISIL and the Popular Resistance)
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Inconclusive
2018 attack on the Iranian Embassy in London (2018)
2018 attack on the Iranian Embassy in London (2018)
Conflict
2018 attack on the Iranian Embassy in London (2018)
Iran (and allies)
Iran  United Kingdom
Opponents
The Mahdi Servants Union
Results
Victory
Notes
Attackers were arrested
Palestinian Authority–West Bank militias conflict (2022–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence and the Iran–Israel proxy conflict
Palestinian Authority–West Bank militias conflict (2022–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence and the Iran–Israel proxy conflict
Conflict
Palestinian Authority–West Bank militias conflict (2022–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence and the Iran–Israel proxy conflict
Iran (and allies)
Palestinian Islamic Jihad  Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades  Hamas Supported by:  Iran
Opponents
Palestinian Authority Template:Country data Fatah  leadership Supported by:  Israel  United States
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Escalation in clashes during the Gaza war
2022 Iran–Greece naval incident (2022)
2022 Iran–Greece naval incident (2022)
Conflict
2022 Iran–Greece naval incident (2022)
Iran (and allies)
Iran Supported by:  Russia
Opponents
Greece Supported by:  European Union  United States
Results
Inconclusive
Notes
The Greek seizure was lifted.
Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Iran and the Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Part of Post-soviet conflicts
Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Iran and the Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Part of Post-soviet conflicts
Conflict
Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Iran and the Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present) Part of Post-soviet conflicts
Iran (and allies)
Russia Donetsk PR Luhansk PR Supported by:  Belarus  North Korea  Iran (alleged, denied by Iran)
Opponents
Ukraine Supported by: Military aid to Ukraine
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Territorial control during the Russo-Ukrainian war. Iran denied any involvement in the war.
Sudanese civil war (2023–present) Iranian intervention in Sudan Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Sudanese civil war (2023–present) Iranian intervention in Sudan Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Conflict
Sudanese civil war (2023–present) Iranian intervention in Sudan Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Iran (and allies)
Sudanese government Sudanese Armed Forces PDF Popular Resistance Al-Bara Battalion AWB SPLM-N (Agar) JEM SLM (Minnawi) SLM (Tambour) (from August 2023) Darfur Joint Protection Force (from November 2023)  Egypt Supported by:  Ukraine  Turkey  Iran Saudi Arabia
Opponents
Government of Peace and Unity (from April 2025) Rapid Support Forces Non-RSF Janjaweed militias SPLM-N (al-Hilu) (from February 2025) Tamazuj (from August 2023) Libyan National Army Desert Wolves Supported by:  United Arab Emirates Wagner Group Chad (alleged) SLM (al-Nur) SPLM-N (al-Hilu) (June 2023 – February 2025)
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Iran–Sudan relations are restored and Iranian-Houthi Sphere of influence is expanded in the Red Sea.
The Sunflower case (2023) Part of Iranian external operations
The Sunflower case (2023) Part of Iranian external operations
Conflict
The Sunflower case (2023) Part of Iranian external operations
Iran (and allies)
Iran
Opponents
Politicians related to Vox Supported by:  Iranian opposition diaspora Spain Netherlands
Results
Defeat
Attacks on US bases during the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present) Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), the 2024 Syrian opposition offensives and the Eastern Syria insurgency in the Syrian civil war
Attacks on US bases during the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present) Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), the 2024 Syrian opposition offensives and the Eastern Syria insurgency in the Syrian civil war
Conflict
Attacks on US bases during the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present) Part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict, the Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present), the 2024 Syrian opposition offensives and the Eastern Syria insurgency in the Syrian civil war
Iran (and allies)
Iran Ba'athist Syria (until 2024) Proxies: Islamic Resistance in Iraq Syrian Hezbollah Liwa Fatemiyoun Popular Mobilization Forces
Opponents
United States United Kingdom Supported by: Jordan Rojava Al-Tanf Garrison
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Current stalemate. The US withdraws from Hemo base in Northeastern Syria.
2024 Iranian operations inside Australia (2024) Melbourne synagogue attack Part of Antisemitism in Australia and Iranian external operations
2024 Iranian operations inside Australia (2024) Melbourne synagogue attack Part of Antisemitism in Australia and Iranian external operations
Conflict
2024 Iranian operations inside Australia (2024) Melbourne synagogue attack Part of Antisemitism in Australia and Iranian external operations
Iran (and allies)
Iran (alleged)
Opponents
Australia Jewish Australians Supported by: Israel
Results
Defeat
Notes
The terrorist perpetrators were arrested and the Australia–Iran embassies were closed.
Syrian conflict (2024–present) Arab tribal insurgency in Eastern Syria Western Syria clashes Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Syria in the 2026 Iran war
Syrian conflict (2024–present) Arab tribal insurgency in Eastern Syria Western Syria clashes Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Syria in the 2026 Iran war
Conflict
Syrian conflict (2024–present) Arab tribal insurgency in Eastern Syria Western Syria clashes Hezbollah–Syria clashes (2024–present) Syria in the 2026 Iran war
Iran (and allies)
Assadist insurgents Syrian Popular Resistance Military Council for the Liberation of Syria Coastal Shield Brigade Saraya al-Jawad Fawj Azra'il al-Jabal  Hezbollah Eastern Lebanese tribes Supported by:  Iran (alleged) Alawite protesters Supreme Alawite Islamic Council
Opponents
Syria Counter protesters Supported by: Jordan Turkey Arab Tribal and Clan Forces Northern Syria Supported by: Kurdistan Workers' Party ISIL Saraya Ansar al-Sunnah Israel Druze militias
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Current stalemate.
2025 Iraq drone attacks
2025 Iraq drone attacks
Conflict
2025 Iraq drone attacks
Iran (and allies)
Popular Mobilization Forces (alleged) Islamic Resistance in Iraq Iran (alleged)
Opponents
Iraq Kurdistan United States
Results
Victory
Notes
Successful attack on Foreign military facilities and oil refineries.
2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran, the 2025–2026 Iranian protests and the 2026 Iran war
2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran, the 2025–2026 Iranian protests and the 2026 Iran war
Conflict
2026 Kurdish–Iranian crisis Part of Kurdish separatism in Iran, the 2025–2026 Iranian protests and the 2026 Iran war
Iran (and allies)
Iran Axis of Resistance  Popular Mobilization Forces Islamic Resistance in Iraq Saraya Awliya al-Dam
Opponents
Coalition of Political Forces of Iranian Kurdistan (CPFIK) Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran Kurdistan Freedom Party Kurdistan Free Life Party Organization of Iranian Kurdistan Struggle Komala of the Toilers of Kurdistan Komala Party of Iranian Kurdistan Supported by:  United States (alleged)  Israel (alleged)
Results
Ongoing
Notes
Limited insurgency during the protests Spillover into the Kurdistan Region of Iraq Speculations about a US-backed Kurdish offensive
Conflict
Iran (and allies)
Opponents
Results
Notes
Palestinian insurgency in South Lebanon (1968–1982) Part of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israeli–Lebanese conflict, the Lebanese Civil War, and the Arab Cold War
Palestine Liberation Organization Syria Lebanese National Movement Lebanese National Resistance Front Supported by: Soviet Union People's Revolutionary Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran (1979–1980)
Israel South Lebanon Army Lebanese Forces
Defeat
1982 kidnapping of Iranian diplomats. Beginning of the South Lebanon conflict. Mohammad Montazeri (son of Grand Ayatollah Hussein-Ali Montazeri) and Mehdi Hashemi creates the Liberation Movements Unit to Export revolution in the Levant. Factional conflicts, as different Iranian factions promoted Hezbollah or Amal.
Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (11 February 1979–present) 1979 Qatif Uprising 1987 Mecca incident Houthi insurgency Operation Scorched Earth Saudi-led intervention in Bahrain Syrian civil war spillover in Lebanon 2011 alleged Iran assassination plot 2011–2012 Saudi Arabian protests Saudi-led intervention in the Yemeni civil war Saudi in
Iran Proxies: Hezbollah Al-Hejaz Syrian Popular Resistance (since 2024) OIRAP (1979–1988) Liwa Fatemiyoun Houthis Syria (until 2024) Popular Mobilization Forces Al-Ashtar Brigades Al-Mukhtar Brigades Hezbollah Hamas Hüseynçilər Muslim Brotherhood Liwa Zainebiyoun IMN Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan
Saudi Arabia Proxies: FSA (until 2017) Syria (since 2024) KDPI Jaish ul-Adl PJAK Komala LNA ANR ASMLA PNA PAK Yemen JRTN (from 2006) LF MEK Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan
Ongoing
Ongoing February 2019 Warsaw Conference Formation of an Arab–Israeli alliance and the Axis of Resistance.
Assadist–Saddamist conflict (22 July 1979–2024) part of the Arab Cold War (until 1990), Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict (until 1990), Iraq–Syria relations, and Shia–Sunni conflict (until 1990)
Assadists Ba'ath Party (Syrian-dominated faction) Ba'ath Party – Syria Region Assadists in Iraq Al-Awda (alleged) Assadists in other Arab states Ba'athist Syria (until 2024) Syrian Popular Resistance (from 2024) Supported by: Iran Hezbollah Iraq (from 2004) Popular Mobilization Forces Badr Organization ISCI Iraqi Shia militi
Saddamists Ba'ath Party (Iraqi-dominated faction) Ba'ath Party – Iraq Region Saddamists in Syria Saddamists in other Arab states Ba'athist Iraq (until 2003) JRTN (from 2006) Supported by: MEK (until 2003) United States (until 1990) United Kingdom (until 1990) West Germany (until 1990) Italy (until 1990) Egypt (until 1990)
Inconclusive
Inconclusive Saddamists ousted from power in Iraq in 2003 Assadists ousted from power in Syria in 2024
Qatif conflict (1979–2023) part of the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict, Anti-Shia discrimination in Saudi Arabia, Arab Spring and the Shia-Sunni conflict
Iran-backed Shia militants (1980s–1990s) Organization for the Islamic Revolution in the Arabian Peninsula (1979–91) Hezbollah Al-Hejaz (1987–2023; mostly inactive from 1990s) Saudi Shia civilians
Saudi Arabian Government Saudi Arabian National Guard Presidency of State Security Saudi Police
Stalemate
Conflict ended
Soviet–Afghan War (1979–1989) Foreign involvement in the Soviet–Afghan War 1982 Harmak incident 1988 Shindand SuperCobra incident Part of Afghan conflict and the Cold War in Asia
Afghan Mujahideen Sunni Mujahideen Supported by: Pakistan Shia Mujahideen and Hazaras Tehran Eight Supported by: Iran Maoist Mujahideen Supported by: People's Republic of China
Soviet Union Afghanistan Al Zulfiqar
Victory
Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. Iran backed Hezbe Wahdat is formed. Increase of Afghans in Iran as refugees.
Sectarian violence in Pakistan (1947−Present) Insurgency in Balochistan Killing of Iranian Diplomats in Pakistan (1997−2000) Part of Terrorism in Pakistan and Shia-Sunni divide
Shia Groups: Tehreek-e-Jafaria Sipah-e-Muhammad Pakistan Ansar-ul-Hussain Khatam-ul-Anbia Supported by: Iran (since 1979) Liwa Zainabiyoun
Pakistan: Government of Pakistan Ministry of Defence Pakistan Armed Forces Pakistan Army Pakistan Air Force Pakistan Navy Ministry of Interior Civil Armed Forces Pakistan Levies Frontier Corps Pakistan Rangers Pakistan Coast Guards Gilgit Baltistan Scouts Federal Constabulary Pakistan Police Counter Terrorism Department Baloc
Ongoing
Division of Shia Islamists between Pro-Khomeinism (favourable to Iran's Axis of Resistance) and Pro-Shariatmadari (critic to the Iranian Revolution), provocating a Rrivalry between Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan and Tehreek-e-Jaferia Pakistan. Pakistani Taliban announced re-insurgency in Pakistan.
Iranian Embassy siege (1980)
Iran United Kingdom
Democratic Revolutionary Front for the Liberation of Arabistan (DRFLA)
Victory
Embassy recaptured after six-day siege
Tanker War (1981−1988) Action of June 5, 1984 Operation Earnest Will Operation Prime Chance Operation Praying Mantis part of Iran–Iraq War
Iran Supported by: Pakistan
Iraq Supported by: United States Saudi Arabia Kuwait
Inconclusive
UNSCR 598
Multinational Force in Lebanon (1982–1984) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Islamic Jihad Organization Iran Ba'athist Syria Progressive Socialist Party Amal Movement
United States France Italy United Kingdom
Stalemate
Syrian Allied victory Multinational forces fail to prevent collapse of Lebanese Army into Syrian- or Israeli- supported militias Multinational forces evacuated after the US embassy and US Marine barracks are bombed by the Islamic Jihad Organization Multinational forces oversee withdrawal of Palestine Liberation Organization Humanitarian crisis i
Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars
Sudan Armed Forces PDF Army of Peace Muraheleen Ex-FAR and Interahamwe SSDF SPLA dissidents SPLA-Nasir SPLA-United SSIM/A Nuer White Army Ugandan insurgents: LRA WNBF UNRF (II) Zaire (1994–1997) al-Qaeda (1991–1996) Iraq China Combat aid: Libya (1986–1991) DR Congo (1998–2003) Non-combat aid: Iran Belarus (from 1996)
SPLA SPLA-Mainstream SPLA-Agar SPDF ALF Titweng SSLM NDA Sudanese Alliance Forces Anyanya II Eastern Coalition Derg (until 1987) PDR Ethiopia (1987–1991) FDR Ethiopia (1995–1998) Eritrea (1996–1998, 2002–2005) Uganda (from 1993) Non-combat aid: Libya (1983–1985) Israel Cuba (until 1991)
Stalemate
Comprehensive Peace Agreement
1983–1986 Kurdish rebellions in Iraq Part of Iran–Iraq War and Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
KDP Supported by: Iran PUK Kurdish mujahideen
Iraq
Stalemate
Long term Kurdish tactical failure
Iran–Israel proxy conflicts (1985−present) Hezbollah–Israel conflict Karine A affair Francop Affair 2009 Sudan airstrikes Victoria Affair 2012 Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip Iran–Israel conflict during the Syrian civil war Israeli–Syrian ceasefire line incidents during the Syrian civil war Operation Full Disclosure Operation Northern
Iran Proxies: Hezbollah Hamas (2006–2011; 2017–present) Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) (2013–present) Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – General Command (PFLP–GC) (2013–present) Sabireen Movement (until 2019) Houthis / Popular Mobilization Units National Defence Fo
Israel Proxies: South Lebanon Army (until 2000) Fursan al-Joulan (2013–19) Popular Forces of Palestine (2024–present) Support: United States United Kingdom (Operation Iron Shield only) France (Operation Iron Shield only)
Ongoing
Ongoing Iran reinforces Syria and Hezbollah Iranian support for Hamas is consolidated Israel tries to prevent weapon transfers to Hezbollah 2006 Lebanon War ends in military stalemate and Israeli withdrawal Beginning of the ongoing Gaza–Israel conflict in June 2006 Israel tries to stop the Iranian nuclear program Iran grows major spheres of
War of Brothers (1988–1990) Part of Lebanese Civil War
Hezbollah Lebanese Islamic Resistance Supported by: Iran
Amal Movement Lebanese Resistance Regiments Supported by: Syria
Inconclussive
Reconciliation between the two parties.
Afghan Civil War (1989–1992) Part of the Cold War, Revolutions of 1989, Dissolution of the Soviet Union, and Afghan conflict
Afghan Mujahideen Jamiat-e Islami Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (until July 1989) National Islamic Front of Afghanistan Ittehad-e Islami Hezb-i Islami Khalis Harakat-i Inqilab-i Islami Independent Factions: Khalq (1990) Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (from July 1989) Junbish-i Milli (from 1992) Foreign Fighters: Al Qaeda Maktab al-Khidamat V
Government of Afghanistan Supported by: Soviet Union (until 1991) Commonwealth of Independent States (from 1991) Tajikistan Turkmenistan Uzbekistan India
Victory
Dissolution of the Homeland Party Government The Peshawar Accord leads to the creation of the Islamic State of Afghanistan on 28 April 1992 Continued civil war among Mujahideen forces
1991 Iraqi uprisings Part of the aftermath of the Gulf War
Shia and leftist elements of opposition: SCIRI/Badr Brigades Dawa Communist Party Pro-Syrian Ba'athists Army deserters/defectors Kurdish rebels: Peshmerga: KDP PUK IMK CPK Jash deserters/defectors PDKI Diplomatic support: United States Military support: Iran
Ba'athist Iraq Ba'ath Party Iraqi Army Republican Guard Special Republican Guard Popular Army General Security Intelligence Service Special Security Support: MEK
Iraqi government military victory
Establishment of Kurdistan Region, facilitated by the imposition of the Iraqi no-fly zones by United States, United Kingdom and France. Iraqi Kurdish gets Kurdistan Region.
Bosnian War (1992–1995) Part of Yugoslav Wars
Bosnia and Herzegovina Military Support: Iran (alleged) Quds Force Herzeg-Bosnia Croatia
Republika Srpska Serbian Krajina SFR Yugoslavia (until 1992) Western Bosnia
Stalemate
Breakup of Yugoslavia International recognition of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign state. Republika Srpska federates with Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Algerian Civil War (1992–2002) part of Arab Cold War and Algeria–Morocco rivalry
Islamic Salvation Front loyalists Morocco Libya (until 1995) Saudi Arabia (pre-war) Saudi private donors Armed Islamic Group (from 1993) Minor involvement: Sudan (alleged) Iran (alleged) Egyptian Islamic Jihad (until 1995) Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (from 1998) Minor involvement: Al-Qaeda
Government of Algeria Minor involvement: Egypt Tunisia France European Union South Africa
Defeat
Algerian Government victory over the islamists.
Afghan Civil War (1992–1996) Part of the Afghan conflict, and Iran-Taliban conflict, Iran-Al Qaeda conflict and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Hezb-i Wahdat (Dec. 1992–1995) Supported by: Iran (Dec. 1992–1995) Junbish-i Milli (Jan.–Aug. 1994) Supported by: Uzbekistan (Jan.–Aug. 1994) Islamic State of Afghanistan List Northern Alliance Jamiat-e Islami NIFA IDOA Harakat-i Islami Junbish-i Milli (until Jan. 1994; from Aug. 1994) Hezb-i Wahdat (from 1995) Shura-e Nazar He
Afghan Army and Airforce Remnants (allegedly, until October 1992) Regional Kandahar Militia Leaders Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin (until late 1994) Supported by: Pakistan (until late 1994) Taliban (from late 1994) Al-Qaeda (from early 1996) Supported by: Pakistan (from late 1994)
Stalemate
Inconclussive Taliban take control of Kabul and most of Afghanistan; Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan established Civil war continues (1996–2001)
Tajikistani Civil War (1992–1997) part of the post-Soviet conflicts and spillover of the Afghan Civil War (1992–1996)
United Tajik Opposition Islamic Renaissance Party Tajik Democratic Party Party of People's Unity Rastokhez Popular Movement Lali Badakhshan Afghanistan (until 1996) Jamiat-e Islami (until 1996) Supported by: al-Qaeda Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Taliban Iran (alleged, denied by Iran)
/ Tajikistan Popular Front of Tajikistan Communist Party of Tajikistan Socialist Party of Tajikistan / Russia Uzbekistan / Kazakhstan / Kyrgyzstan Supported by: Belarus (weapons supplies) UNMOT Austria Bangladesh Bulgaria Czech Republic Denmark Ghana Hungary Indonesia Jordan Nepal Nigeria Poland Switzerland Ukra
Defeat
Armistice
Iraqi Kurdish Civil War (1994–1997) Part of Iraqi–Kurdish conflict
PUK PKK SCIRI KCP Iraqi National Congress Supported by: Iran (from 1995) Syria United States (1996)
KDP PDKI Supported by: Iraq (from 1995) Turkey (from 1997) Iran (before 1995)
Stalemate
Washington Agreement PKK moved to Qandil mountains from Bekaa Valle
Iran-Hezbollah terrorist attacks in Argentina (1992–1994) 1992 Buenos Aires Israeli embassy bombing AMIA bombing Part of Iranian external operations and South Lebanon conflict (1985–2000)
Iran Hezbollah Ansar Allah
Argentina Argentine Jews Supported by: Israel
Victory
Iranian attacks were successful.
1999 Shia uprising in Iraq Part of Prelude to the Iraq war
Rebels: SCIRI / Badr Dawa Supported by: Iran
Government of Iraq
Defeat
Saddamist victory.
Iraqi Kurdistan conflict (2001–2003) Part of the Iraqi no-fly zones conflict, Iraq War, Islamism in Kurdistan, and the war on terror
Islamic Emirate of Kurdistan Ansar al-Islam Kurdistan Islamic Group Kurdistan Islamic Movement Supported by: Iran (alleged by PUK) KDP (alleged by PUK)
Kurdistan Region PUK United States (armed involvement after Viking Hammer)
Defeat
Kurdistan Region–United States victory
War in Darfur (2003–2020) Part of Sudanese Civil Wars and Sudanese conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile
Sudan SAF Janjaweed RSF Chadian rebel groups Anti-Gaddafi forces (2011) Supported by: Libya (2011–2020) China Iran (until 2016) Russia Belarus Syria (2000s, alleged)
SRF (2006–2020) JEM (2003–2020) SLA (some factions) (2003–2020) LJM (2010–11) SLA (some factions) SARC (2014–2020) SLFA (2017–2020) SLA-Unity SLMJ JEM (Jali) Supported by: South Sudan Chad (2005–2010) Eritrea (until 2008) Libya (until 2011) Uganda (until 2015) UNAMID (2007–2020)
Stalemate
Iran–Sudan relations improves against Western Bloc until breaking out in 2016 due to Sudanese intervention in the Yemeni civil war against Houthis. Darfur Peace Agreement and South Sudan independence referendum.
Iraqi insurgency (2003-2011) Iranian involvement in the Iraq War United States raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil Karbala provincial headquarters raid part of the Iraq War
United States United Kingdom MNF–I (2003–09) United States (2003–09) United Kingdom (2003–09) Australia (2003–09) Romania (2003–09) Azerbaijan (2003–08) Kuwait (2003–08) Estonia (2003–09) El Salvador (2003–09) Bulgaria (2003–08) Moldova (2003–08) Albania (2003–08) Ukraine (2003–08) Denmark (2003–08) Czech Republic (200
Ba'ath Party loyalists Fedayeen Saddam (2003 Only) Supreme Command for Jihad and Liberation (from 2007) Naqshbandi Army (from 2006) Supported by: Syria Sunni insurgents Al-Qaeda Al-Qaeda in Iraq (2004–06) Islamic State of Iraq (from 2006) Islamic Army in Iraq Ansar al-Sunnah (2003–07) Iraqi Islamic Resistance Army other smalle
Inconclusive
Inconclusive 2003–2006 insurgency phase deteriorates into 2006–2008 civil war 20,000+ additional American soldiers deployed to Iraq to quell violence in troop surge of 2007 Coalition failure to defeat Iraqi insurgency End of American military presence in Iraq with 2007–2011 withdrawal Continued Iraqi conflict
Houthi insurgency (2004–2014) Operation Scorched Earth part of the Yemeni crisis and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Houthi Movement Yemen (pro-Saleh forces) Alleged support by: Iran North Korea Libya (until 2011)
Yemen Security Forces Sunni tribes Al-Islah militias Saudi Arabia Supported by: Jordan Morocco al-Qaeda Ansar al-Sharia
Houthi victory
Houthi victory Conflict escalates into a full-scale civil war with the Yemeni government and foreign intervention Houthi rebels take over Sa'dah and establish an independent administration in Sa'dah Governorate and parts of 'Amran, Al Jawf and Hajjah. Houthis take control of Sanaa Yemeni government under President Hadi relocated from Sanaa to A
2004 Iranian seizure of Royal Navy personnel (2004)
Navy of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution Iranian Border Guard Command
British Royal Navy
Victory
Victory British naval personnel arrested 3 patrol boats seized
2005 Ahvaz unrest (2005) part of Arab separatism in Khuzestan
Iranian Government
Iranian Arabs
Victory
Unrest quelled
Fatah–Hamas conflict (2006–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence
Hamas Gaza Strip (after June 2007) Hamas/PJOR-affiliated groups in the West Bank (from 2022) Supported by: Iran Palestinian Joint Operations Room
Fatah Palestinian Authority Fatah-affiliated groups in the Gaza Strip (from 2025) Supported by: Israel
Ongoing
Fatah–Hamas reconciliation process Hamas takeover of the Gaza Strip New Palestinian government in the West Bank
U . raid on the Iranian Liaison Office in Erbil (2007) part of Iraq War
Iran Iraqi Kurdistan
United States
Defeat
Iranian diplomats captured by the US Iranian retaliatory raids against the US
2007 Iranian arrest of Royal Navy personnel (2007)
Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Border Guard Command
Royal Navy
Victory
Two British boats seized 15 Royal Navy personnel captured
Iranian Anti-piracy measures in Somalia (2008–present) part of Piracy in Somalia, war on terror and Somali Civil War
Somalia UN Iran China India Russia Arab League Israel NATO European Union Japan South Korea SADC
Somali pirates
Ongoing
Iran's incursions against the MEK in Iraq (2009–2013) 2011 raid on Camp Ashraf 2013 Camp Ashraf massacre Part of Iraqi conflict
Iran Iraq
MEK Supported by: US
Victory
The People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran is disarticulated in Iraq, fleeing to Albania.
Sixth Sa'dah War (2009–2010) Part of Yemeni crisis and Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Houthis Alleged support: Iran Quds Force Hezbollah
Yemen Hashed tribesmen Saudi Arabia Alleged support: Morocco Jordan
Stalemate
Ceasefire after rebels accepted the government's truce conditions.
Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Al-Qaeda and allies Al-Shabaab AQAP AQIM Hizbul Islam (until 2010; 2012–2013) Alleged state allies: Eritrea Iran Quds Force Qatar Alleged non-state allies: Houthis Somali pirates Islamic State (since 2015) Somalia Wilayah Allies: IS-YP Somali pirates
Somalia Somali Armed Forces Regional forces: Galmudug Galmudug Security Force Ahlu Sunna Waljama'a (until 2018) Ma'awisley Hirshabelle Khatumo Southwestern Somalia Himan and Heeb (until 2015) United States U . Army U . Marine Corps U . Air Force U . Navy CIA AFRICOM China People's Armed Police Turkey Turkish Land For
Ongoing
Insurgency in Bahrain (2011–present) part of 2011 Bahraini uprising and the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy conflict
Bahraini opposition Supported by: Iran
Bahrain Supported by: Peninsula Shield Force Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Kuwait
Ongoing
Ongoing
Iran–Turkey proxy conflict (2011–present) PKK insurgency in the Kurdistan Region Kurdish Hezbollah insurgency 2019 Turkish offensive into north-eastern Syria Operation Claw-Sword 2021 Shia militia attacks on Turkey Turkish–Syrian National Army offensive in Northern Syria (2024–2025) part of the Iran–Israel proxy conflict and the Iran–Saudi A
Iran Proxies Kurdistan Workers' Party PUK Kurdish Hezbollah Sinjar Alliance Hezbollah Popular Mobilization Forces Islamic Resistance in Iraq Houthi movement Husayniyun Libyan House of Representatives (sometimes) Muslim Brotherhood (sometimes) Hamas (Axis of Resistance) Support Armenia Russia Syria (until 2024) Ir
Turkey Proxies Syrian National Army Government of National Accord Libyan House of Representatives (sometimes) Presidential Leadership Council GAMOH AMDT JAMAH Iraqi Turkmen Front National Council of Resistance of Iran KDP KDPI (1993–1995) Komala (1993–1995) Muslim Brotherhood (sometimes) Hamas (sometimes) Support Az
Ongoing
Ongoing
2011 attack on the British Embassy in Iran
United Kingdom Embassy at Tehran Iran
Anti-Western civilian protesters
Stalemate
Defense of the Embassy is reinforced and Iranian government condemns the attacks.
2011–2012 Strait of Hormuz dispute (2011–2012)
Iran
United States United Kingdom France Australia
Stalemate
Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz Multi-national flotilla established in Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea off coast of Iran EU sanctions enforced, banning the export of oil from Iran to the EU countries and freezing Iranian assets
Mali War (2012–present) Part of the War in the Sahel, war on terror and the War against the Islamic State
2012–2013 Mali 2013–2022/23 Mali France MINUSMA Chad (2013 only) Wagner Group (from 2021) Supported by: EUTM Mali Others Angola Australia Belgium Canada Denmark Germany India Iran Italy Japan Namibia Netherlands Spain United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States 2023–present Mali Russia (202
2012 MNLA Al-Qaeda AQIM Ansaru Ansar Dine MOJWA Boko Haram 2012–15 CMA (from 2014) MNLA HCUA (from 2013) MAA-D (from 2013) 2023–24 CSP CMA GATIA (al-Mahmoud faction) 2024–present FLA Supported by: Ukraine 2012–present CMI (2017–present) MAA (until 2013) Other armed groups and self-defense militias 2012–2017 A
Ongoing
Jordanian-Syrian border conflict (2012–2018)
Syria Hezbollah Supported by: Iran Russia Islamic State Khalid ibn al-Walid Army
Jordan Free Syrian Army Supported by: United States Ahrar al-Sham Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham
Defeat
Jordan restores control over the Jordanian-Syrian border Syrian government loses a majority of the borders All infiltration attempts into Jordan foiled.
Libyan civil war (2014–2020) Part of the Arab Winter, the Libyan crisis, the Iran–Saudi Arabia proxy war, the war on terror, and the Qatar–Saudi Arabia diplomatic conflict, War against the Islamic State and the Insurgency in the Maghreb (2002–present)
House of Representatives (Tobruk-based) Libyan National Army Libyan Air Force (LNA–aligned) Libyan Navy (LNA–aligned) Others: Zintan brigades JEM (from 2016) SLM/A-Minnawi Gaddafi loyalists Popular Front for the Liberation of Libya Warshefana militias Wagner Group (from 2018) Egypt United Arab Emirates RSF (from 2019) Ba'athist Sy
Government of National Accord (Tripoli-based) (from 2015) Libyan Ground Forces Libyan Air Force (GNA–aligned) Libyan Navy (GNA–aligned) Others: Presidential Guard Misrata Brigades Sabratha Revolutionary Brigades Petroleum Facilities Guard Tripoli Protection Force (from 2018) Misratan Third Force Tuareg militias of Ghat Toubou Front for the
Stalemate
Ceasefire Iran and Saudi Arabia develops a rivalry concerning the militar support for Khalifa Haftar until 2020. Iran withdraws due to lack of interest. Then diplomatically supports the Turkish intervention in Libya (2020–present) after the end of the civil war and the formation of the Government of National Unity.
Iran's operations against the MEK in Albania (2016–ongoing) 2023 Raid on Camp Ashraf Part of Iranian external operations
Iran Albania
MEK
Ongoing
Ongoing.
2016 U .–Iran naval incident (2016)
Iran
United States
Inconclusive
Sailors released unharmed 15 hours later after negotiations
Marco Polo operation (2017–Present) Part of Iranian external operations
Iran Local Criminals
Jewish lobby in Europe Supported by: Israel Iranian opposition diaspora France Germany
Ongoing
The European Investigative Collaborations since 2023 starts an investigation of criminal networks contracted by Iran's terrorist cells, being arrested two attackers in 2024 by France–Germany collaboration. Further Joint statement on Iranian state threat activity in Europe and North America
2017 Iraqi–Kurdish conflict (2017)
Iraq Supported by: Iran
Kurdistan Regional Government PKK PDKI PAK White Flags (alleged)
Victory
Iraqi government forces defeat the Peshmerga and capture 20% of the territory controlled by the Kurdistan Region including the city of Kirkuk, along with the surrounding oil fields and border crossings.
Eastern Syria insurgency (2017–present) Part of the Rojava conflict, the Syrian civil war and the Syrian conflict
Islamic State Wilayat al-Sham Assad loyalists Supported by: Ba'athist Syria Iran (alleged, until 6 December 2024) Iraq (alleged) Syria (since 2024) Syrian Armed Forces Syrian National Army (until 2025) Ahrar al-Sharqiya Gathering of the Eastern Martyrs Harakat al-Qiyam Revolutionaries in the Land of Deir ez-Zor Special Tasks Battali
Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria Syrian Democratic Forces Self-Defence Forces (HXP) Internal Security Forces (Asayish) Pro-SDF Arab tribes CJTF–OIR United States France United Kingdom Canada Germany Saudi Arabia Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK, claimed by Turkey, ISIL and the Popular Resistance)
Ongoing
Inconclusive
2018 attack on the Iranian Embassy in London (2018)
Iran United Kingdom
The Mahdi Servants Union
Victory
Attackers were arrested
Palestinian Authority–West Bank militias conflict (2022–present) Part of Palestinian internal political violence and the Iran–Israel proxy conflict
Palestinian Islamic Jihad Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades Hamas Supported by: Iran
Palestinian Authority Template:Country data Fatah leadership Supported by: Israel United States
Ongoing
Escalation in clashes during the Gaza war

References

  1. Regency Council was practically dissolved on 22 January 1979, when its head resigned to meet Ruhollah Khomeini.
  2. Imperial Iranian Army revoked their allegiance to the throne and declared neutrality on 11 February 1979.
  3. Iraq claimed victory following a successful 1988 counter-offensive aimed at expelling Iranian forces from Iraq which com
  4. After the war concluded, Iraq continued to maintain control over the entire Shatt al-Arab and other Iranian territories
  5. Formed by a faction of the Southern Movement, it was established on 11 May 2017, and has called for the secession of a p
  6. logistic support and assistance with the naval blockade of Houthi-held territories in October 2016
  7. training, intelligence, logistical support, weapons, and blockade up to 2017
  8. From May 2024. Popular Forces have been described as a Salafi Jihadist organization with alleged ties to the Islamic Sta
  9. The Syrian Arab Republic under Assad was supported by Iran, Hezbollah and Iraqi militias until his fall on 8 December 20
  10. Until 8 December 2024
  11. The Syrian caretaker government was established two days after Assad was overthrown on 10 December
  12. Political legitimacy of all Houthi-led government bodies has been rejected by the United Nations, rival Yemeni factions,
  13. Multiple sources indicate that the Iranian government has deployed military personnel to Houthi-controlled Yemen who are
  14. On 5 April 2026, Israel launched an airstrike on what it called "a terror target" in the predominantly Christian town of
  15. Iraqi support for Sudan during the war mostly consisted of weapons shipments; according to the South Sudanese, however,
  16. Although China was not officially involved in the war, it sent troops to the country in order to protect oil fields and
  17. Known as the National Redemption Front prior to 2011.
  18. Signed the Doha Darfur Peace Agreement in 2011.
  19. MINUSMA, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, replaced and absorbed the troops
  20. The Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic were Russian puppet states that declared their independe
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