Axis of Resistance?
What’s Happening to Iran’s Proxy Network After October 7, 2023
Since Hamas launched its “Al-Aqsa Flood” operation on October 7, 2023, the group of armed movements connected to Iran often called the “Axis of Resistance” has become more visible and more active. According to journalist Christophe Ayad (Sign@l), this network has changed a lot in the months since the attack.
Where It All Started
This network began after Iran’s 1979 revolution. Since then, Iran has used a strategy known as proxy warfare. That means Instead of Fighting Directly, Iran Supports other Groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, militias in Iraq, and the Houthis in Yemen by Giving them Money, Weapons, and Training.
This Approach Helps Iran Increase its Influence in the Middle East Without Getting into Open Wars. It also gives Iran a way to challenge countries like Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United States without directly attacking them.
After October 7: A New Level of Coordination
Analyst Kévin Thiévon (Politique étrangère) says something major shifted on October 7. Hamas commander Mohammed Deif called for a wider resistance across the region. In response, multiple groups including the Houthis, Hezbollah, and Iraqi militias acted at the same time.
This wasn’t Just Iran Pulling strings from Behind the Scenes. These groups seemed to Work Together, Often on their Own. This Showed They Were more United And also More Flexible Than people had seen before.
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Cracks in the Alliance?
Even with this Strong front, Some Experts including Ayad believe the alliance is Starting to Break Apart. Here’s why:
- Weaker control from Iran: Groups like Hamas and the Houthis are starting to act more on their own.
- Loss of leadership: Leaders Like Qassem Soleimani (killed in 2020) are Gone. Others, like Hassan Nasrallah, May no Longer be as Active or Strong.
- Iran’s own problems: Inside Iran, There’s Unrest, a Tough Economy, and Growing Isolation from other Countries. This Makes it Harder for Iran to Support its Allies like Before.
What Could Go Wrong?
As Iran loses control, several problems could arise:
- Disorganized attacks: Independent actions by groups might cause accidents or start new conflicts by mistake.
- Global pressure: These groups may be easier for countries like Israel or the U.S. to target if Iran isn’t clearly backing them.
- More instability: If this network falls apart, it could cause power struggles between groups and worsen sectarian tensions in the region.
Final Thoughts: A Crossroads for Iran’s Influence
Right after October 7, Iran’s network of allies seemed stronger and more coordinated than ever. But underneath, there are real cracks. Iran’s hold on these groups is slipping. Leaders have been lost. Outside pressure is growing.
What happens next is unclear. Maybe this alliance will adapt and survive — or maybe it will slowly break apart. Either way, Iran’s way of using proxy groups to shape the region is facing its biggest test yet.