Iran-backed Resistance Axis revives, reshaping Iran‑US‑Israel conflict

After three years of disruption, militant groups loyal to Iran are regaining strength across the Middle East, reinforcing Tehran's leverage against the United States and Israel. The so‑called “Resistance Axis” – an Iran‑supported alliance of militias opposing Israel and the West – had been weakened by Israel’s large‑scale campaign following the 2023 Hamas attack, but many of its partners are now re‑engaging, opening new fronts in Iraq, Yemen and elsewhere and raising the risk of broader economic disruption.

Analysts cite the alliance’s two‑decade record of deterring direct attacks on Iran. “The Resistance Axis has operated very effectively for more than two decades, helping ensure Iran is not attacked,” said Trita Parsi, executive vice‑president of the Quincy Institute, to CNN. Iran continues to pursue its cross‑border revolutionary strategy, supporting groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and various Iraqi militias. Israel has intensified strikes against these forces and even targeted senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, without achieving regime change. Five years after the 2023 Hamas assault, Tehran’s regional allies are again active and adapting to the evolving battlefield.