America’s Role in the Iran-Israel Conflict: A Modern Power Balancing Act.

By: Aiman Wajid

The Middle East remains one of the most sensitive and volatile regions in global politics, and at the heart of its persistent instability lies the ongoing tension between Iran and Israel. While both nations have long regarded each other as existential threats, it is the presence and influence of the United States that significantly shapes the dynamics of this conflict. America’s involvement is not just reactive—it is strategic, long-standing, and deeply rooted in both historical alliances and modern geopolitical interests.

Since the late 20th century, the United States has maintained a close alliance with Israel, built on shared democratic values, mutual security concerns, and strong political support from within the U.S. itself. Over the decades, this relationship has grown into one of the most robust defense partnerships in the world. The U.S. provides Israel with nearly $4 billion in military aid annually, which includes advanced weapon systems, missile defense support, and cutting-edge intelligence sharing. Washington has repeatedly emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself, especially in response to what it perceives as growing threats from Iran and its regional proxies, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

At the same time, America’s relationship with Iran has remained deeply strained for over four decades. The 1979 Islamic Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the U.S.-backed Shah and the hostage crisis at the American Embassy in Tehran, marked the beginning of this long-standing hostility. Since then, the U.S. has viewed Iran with suspicion, accusing it of sponsoring terrorism, destabilizing neighboring countries, and pursuing nuclear weapons under the guise of a peaceful energy program.

This mistrust has manifested in various ways, most notably through economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation. When the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, was signed under the Obama administration, it marked a significant attempt to thaw relations. The deal limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. However, in 2018, President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement, citing concerns that the deal was too lenient and failed to address Iran’s missile program and regional activities. Since then, negotiations to revive the deal have stalled, and tensions have only increased.

On the ground, America’s military footprint in the region is another testament to its active involvement. U.S. forces are stationed in several Gulf countries, and its navy regularly patrols the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments that lies near Iranian territory. While these deployments are presented as measures for regional security, Iran views them as provocations and violations of its sovereignty. Incidents involving drone strikes, attacks on oil tankers, and cyber warfare have all added fuel to an already blazing fire, with each side accusing the other of aggressive intent.

The triangle between America, Iran, and Israel is not just defined by direct military actions but also by strategic calculations and political messaging. The U.S. seeks to contain Iran’s influence in the region while simultaneously assuring Israel of its unwavering support. This balancing act is incredibly difficult. Any show of force against Iran risks drawing America into deeper conflict, while any perceived softening toward Tehran triggers concern and backlash from Israel and its supporters.

Critics argue that the United States’ unwavering support for Israel, without equal attention to Palestinian or Iranian perspectives, contributes to the cycle of violence. They suggest that this one-sided approach undermines America’s role as a neutral peace broker. Meanwhile, proponents of current U.S. policy argue that Israel remains a vital ally in a dangerous neighborhood and that Iran’s aggressive behavior justifies a strong, consistent stance.

What complicates matters further is the changing nature of warfare and influence. Iran does not always confront its enemies directly. Instead, it supports proxy groups and militias in countries like Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen—many of which are hostile toward Israel and, by extension, the United States. In response, the U.S. and Israel have launched strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure and commanders in these areas. These tit-for-tat actions risk escalating into a broader regional war—one that could pull in multiple countries and cause immense humanitarian and economic damage.

In recent years, diplomatic efforts have been inconsistent. While there are occasional calls for dialogue and de-escalation, the reality on the ground often moves in the opposite direction. The lack of sustained diplomatic engagement, combined with frequent acts of aggression and mistrust, leaves little room for meaningful resolution.

America’s role in the Iran-Israel conflict is one of both protector and participant. While it seeks to maintain regional stability and protect its allies, its actions are also part of the ongoing power struggle that fuels the very instability it hopes to contain. The United States remains a central figure whose decisions carry enormous weight in shaping the future of this conflict. Whether this influence will eventually lead to peace or further deepen the divide remains one of the most pressing questions in international affairs today.

The writer is the student of Department of Communication and Media Studies, at Fatima Jinnah women university Rawalpindi, Pakistan.