Link to article: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/2/7/iran-unveils-underground-base-in-response-to-us-israel-exercises
Iran has just revealed that is has an underground base to showcase its aerial military capabilities in response to US-Israel exercises. The base is located inside a mountain in order to protect it from air attacks. The base was revealed two weeks after Israel and the US had their largest joint-military drill, using thousands of troops and was attended by top military officials. This was seen as a threat to Iran in the midst of rising tensions. The Iranian army also revealed that they created a new missile called the Asef which is a long range cruise missile and have been expanding their cooperation with Russia. Iran has been purchasing advanced Su-35 jets from Russia as well in response to the military drills.
Tensions between Iran and Israel have been strained throughout history ever since the Iranian revolution of 1979. Iran has been supporting many militant groups that are hostile towards Israel, and Iran does not recognize Israel as a legitimate state. Israel also condemns Iran due to its nuclear development and has placed economic sanctions on them. Iran is also in support of the Palestinians which the Israel’s are against. Iran also views Israel as a western-backed state and a tool by US foreign policy and an extent to US imperialism. The two states also share opposing religious views and both belief that each other’s religions are a threat.
The US and Israel have been allied due to their similar traits and their support of democracy. The U.S supports Israel in the fight to defend themselves against Palestine and have been diplomatically and economically supporting them throughout the conflict. The U.S has been giving about $3.8 billion annually to fund development and military equipment. The U.S also provides intelligence to keep the government and the citizens safe in the country. This idea of the U.S getting involved can be seen as a offshore balancing, and help build up a state in a region of interest of the U.S, and help keep other Middle Eastern countries like Iran not as powerful.