Recent Israeli strikes have stirred up painful memories for Iranians who lived through the brutal 1980s war with Iraq. Surprisingly, even some of the government’s usual critics are putting aside their grievances and standing with the regime, seeing Israel as a shared threat.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about geopolitics—it’s about how trauma from past conflicts shapes reactions today. When old wounds are reopened, even deep divisions can temporarily fade, which could harden Iran’s stance in the region. That makes de-escalation trickier.

Iran is threatening severe retaliation against Israel, but experts suggest their options are limited and risky. While commanders vow to bring "hell" upon Israel, any major escalation could backfire, leaving Tehran in a tough spot between saving face and avoiding all-out war.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just saber-rattling—it’s a high-stakes game of chicken. If Iran overplays its hand, it could trigger a wider conflict with unpredictable consequences. But if it does nothing, its credibility takes a hit. Either way, the region is on edge.