Balance of Threat Theory and the Iran-Israel Crisis

Chimezie Chukwuemeka Eze1; Joyce Uzoma Obanye2; Emeka Nwigwe3

doi:10.56201/jhsp.vol.12.no8.2026.pg103.115

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Balance of Threat Theory and the Iran-Israel Crisis

Chimezie Chukwuemeka Eze1, Joyce Uzoma Obanye2, and Emeka Nwigwe3

Abstract

The study examined Balance of Threat Theory and the Iran-Israel crisis. The Iran-Israel crisis has developed into a major security concern in the Middle East, marked by escalating military hostilities, nuclear-related tensions, ideological disagreements, and rivalry over regional power and influence. The objectives of the study were to examine the history and overview of the Iran- Israel crisis and analyse the Iran-Israel crisis using the Balance of Threat Theory. The study adopted the Balance of Threat Theory proposed by Stephen Walt in 1987. The study employed a historical research design and applied secondary sources of data. Data were sourced from academic books, journal articles, government documents, policy papers, newspapers, and reliable online publications. The study concluded that the Iran-Israel crisis illustrates the usefulness of Stephen Walt’s Balance of Threat Theory in understanding interstate rivalry and security competition. The theory explains that Iran and Israel reacted not merely to each other’s military capabilities but also to perceived intentions, offensive strength, geographical proximity, and strategic alliances. Israel’s concerns over Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities contributed to stronger cooperation with the United States, while Iran sought to enhance its security through military development and regional partnerships. The study recommended that Iran, Israel, and other major players should intensify diplomatic negotiations and confidence-building measures to reduce tensions, prevent miscalculation, and address concerns over nuclear and military activities.

Keywords

Balance of Threat Theorycrisismilitary hostilitiestensionsideological disagreementsregional power

References

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Balance of Threat Theory and the Iran-Israel Crisis

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