Israel imposes air occupation on Iran after recent conflict

In June 2025, Israel engaged in an unprecedented conflict known as the Twelve-Day War with Iran, resulting in significant strategic gains for Israel, including air superiority over Iranian territories. Following the conflict, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed an enforcement plan aimed at maintaining this air superiority, preventing Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities, and acting against Iranian support for terror activity directed at Israel. Historical precedents for such actions can be seen in Israel’s operations in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as U.S. no-fly zones over Iraq. Despite these established tactics, an air occupation of Iran poses substantial logistical challenges. During the conflict, Israeli forces primarily relied on aerial power, effectively transforming the perception of Iran as a distant adversary into a more immediate threat. The Israeli Air Force executed numerous strikes on strategic and leadership targets within Iran without any reported losses of crewed aircraft. This showcases Israel's capability to project military power deep into Iranian territory and reflects a shift in military strategy that emphasizes aerial dominance as a means of ensuring national security. Simultaneous to these developments, Turkey has been expediting its military modernization efforts, which may have implications for the regional balance of power, especially given its ongoing conflict with Kurdish groups and its posture towards both Israel and Iran. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to focus on securing advanced military systems, potentially enhancing Turkey's offensive and defensive missile capabilities in light of the recent escalations in the region. This buildup may help Turkey compete with Iran’s extensive ballistic missile arsenal, which has traditionally dominated the Middle East. These unfolding events indicate a marked intensification in the Israeli-Iranian conflict with considerable geopolitical ramifications. As Israel embarks on its air occupation strategy and Turkey bolsters its military capabilities, the potential for escalation in regional provocations continues to rise. The situation remains fluid, particularly with competing interests and historical grievances shaping the interactions between these nations. Countries like Turkey are reportedly reassessing their defense strategies in this evolving security landscape, reflective of a broader regional military arms race catalyzed by the conflict.