Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply following direct military exchanges between Israel and Iran, marking one of the most serious confrontations between the two regional powers in recent history. After years of indirect conflict fought through cyberattacks, covert operations and regional allies, recent strikes and retaliatory attacks have raised fears of a wider regional escalation.
The situation has drawn in global powers and heightened international concern about security,
energy markets and diplomatic stability. But how did relations between Israel and Iran deteriorate to this point, who are the key actors involved, and what are the broader geopolitical stakes? And closer to home, what could this mean for South Africa — from economic impacts such as fuel prices
and trade, to our diplomatic positioning on the global stage? We’re joined now by international relations expert DR Oscar van Heerden to help us unpack the origins of this conflict, the main players involved, and what developments we should be watching closely.