Operation True Promise 3: Iran-Israel Conflict Reignites Middle East Tensions

Relevance: GS II International Relation 

Why in News

After Israel’s ‘Operation Rising Lion’ hit important Iranian military and nuclear facilities, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ in retaliation.

The main causes of the Iran-Israel conflict are as follows: 

Iran became an Islamic Republic after the 1979 revolution and had a strong anti-Israel attitude; both countries were allies before to the 1979 revolution. Iran’s nuclear program, which Israel views as an existential threat. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had previously revealed that Iran had violated its Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) obligations by enriching uranium to 60%.

• Additionally, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are part of the United States and other important Western nations. Iran and Israel have failed to reach a nuclear agreement.
• Iran has provided support to organizations such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

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Implications of the Conflict between Israel and Iran

Regional instability (repercussions), such as the involvement of Gaza and Lebanon. Shipping in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz will be impacted.

For instance, India imports most of its crude oil needs via the Strait of Hormuz. Longer flight paths for aircraft and ships.

• Impact initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
• For India: Could jeopardize Chabahar port operations, maintain diplomatic ties between Iran and Israel, etc.

Mains 

Practice Question: With escalating hostilities in West Asia, India faces a diplomatic dilemma in balancing its relationships with both Iran and Israel. Evaluate India’s diplomatic strategy in managing ties with Iran and Israel amid the ongoing regional conflict. Suggest a roadmap for securing India’s long-term strategic interests in the region.

Mains PYQs

Question: “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. (2018)

MCQs PYQs

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Q. What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port in India? (2017)

a. India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.

b. India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.

c. India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

d. Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India.

Answer: c 

MCQs

Q.Which of the following non-state actors are supported by Iran and are involved in the Iran-Israel conflict dynamics?

1. Hamas
2. Hezbollah
3. Houthi rebels
4. Al-Qaeda

a. 1 and 2 only

b. 1, 2 and 3 only

c. 1, 2 and 4 only

d. 1 and 4 only

Answer: A

Source: Iran launches Operation True Promise 3 in response to Israel’s Rising Lion

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