Iran's extensive use of proxy forces and conflicts with separatist and terrorist groups have been central to recent tensions in Gaza, Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan. Iran's strategy, developed since its 1979 revolution, is to build up militias across the Middle East to deter threats and undermine foes, due to its isolation and perception of being besieged. Iran's support for like-minded militias and groups is part of its forward defense strategy to defend itself by taking action outside its borders. This approach allows Iran to project power and influence while maintaining plausible deniability, as well as avoiding direct engagement with the United States and its allies. Iran's proxies, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and Hamas in the Palestinian territories, have been instrumental in carrying out attacks and raising tensions with Israel. In addition to using proxies, Iran has also directly struck targets in Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan, signaling its willingness to defend itself and make a show of force amidst internal and external challenges. The recent strikes in Pakistan targeted bases for a separatist group that operates on both sides of the Iran-Pakistan border, leading to frictions between the two countries. These actions have the potential to further destabilize an already tense region.