The Prolonged Aerial Conflict: Israel and Iran's Test of Endurance
The ongoing aerial warfare between Israel and Iran has developed into a battle of attrition, as each nation seeks to deplete the other's military and economic resources. So far, the conflict has unfolded at considerable distances, with Israeli fighter jets frequently covering the substantial 1,500 kilometers to reach the Iranian capital, Tehran. In retaliation, Iran has been launching high-cost long-range ballistic missiles daily, creating a significant financial burden on both countries.
Both Israel and Iran appear prepared for a lengthy confrontation, despite the rising costs and escalating human toll. Reports indicate that the conflict, which escalated on the night of June 12-13, 2025, is expected to last at least two weeks, but analysts speculate that it may extend even further as both nations gauge each other's endurance.
Official sources report that over 200 Iranians and more than 20 Israelis have already lost their lives in the conflict. While Israel boasts a more advanced military force, having quickly achieved air superiority over Iran and inflicting considerable damage, it is also grappling with the high costs of sustained military operations. The Economist estimates that each day of airstrikes on Iran costs Israel around 300 million dollars. In addition, intercepting the missiles launched by Iran could add another estimated 290 million dollars per day to Israel's expenses. Given that Israel has already invested approximately 85 billion dollars in military endeavors since October 7, 2023, the sustainability of these operations is becoming increasingly questionable.
Logistical challenges are also prominent in this conflict. Maintaining air superiority requires Israel to keep a high number of fighter jets in the air continuously, leading to potential refueling difficulties and pilot fatigue. This complexity is compounded by heavy operational demands and the financial implications of such extended military engagement.
On the other hand, while Iran is currently enduring significant losses—both human and material—it is a larger nation with a history of resilience in the face of attacks. Iran has anticipated the potential for conflict, investing in its military capabilities over several decades. Despite suffering damages during initial airstrikes, Iran still possesses substantial missile resources. Israeli intelligence suggests that prior to the onset of hostilities, Iran had a stockpile of around 2,000 ballistic missiles. In the opening days of the war, approximately 350 were launched, but estimates indicate that Iran retains at least 1,000 missiles available for future strikes against Israel.
The crux of this aerial standoff lies in which side can sustain their capabilities longer—whether Iran will deplete its missile arsenal or if Israel will exhaust its Iron Dome interceptors first. The situation could shift dramatically should the United States choose to intervene on Israel's behalf, leveraging its superior military might to provide a considerable advantage and bolster Israel's endurance. Moreover, the U.S. possesses advanced munitions capable of penetrating underground Iranian nuclear facilities—targets that have so far eluded Israeli attacks.
The war, ignited by Israel, appears to harbor deeper motivations beyond the overt ones made public. There are indications that Israel's actions may also aim to influence U.S. political dynamics, specifically with the prospect of drawing former President Donald Trump into the conflict, thereby aligning more considerable foreign support against Iran.
As the resistance between these two nations unfolds, the human costs rise and the financial strains deepen, creating a precarious situation that may reshape the geopolitical landscape in the region.
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