JOURNAL OF MILITARY MEDICINE
Year:2025 | Volume:27 | Issue:ویژه نامه شماره 1|Papers Count:14

In the contemporary history of Iran, there have been many wars, and each time, due to the weakness of Iranian science and technology, defeats have been imposed on Iran. The Iranians achieved great successes in the Eight-Year Defense and the Twelve-Day Defense, but they did not allow the enemy to achieve their illegitimate goals. The reason why the enemies were provoked and attacked Iran, and the reason why the Iranians were defeated in many wars and why they did not defeat in the two recent wars, must be understood in the cognitive basis of their decision-making and performance. For this reason, addressing the cognitive basis of the enemy's and Iranian's performance in these two wars and their differences from previous wars is an important point that must be considered. Two of the most important reasons for Iran's success in these wars can be considered the solidarity of Iranians around their national religious identity and the existence of an informed, knowledgeable, and forward-looking leadership.

A brief look at the course of the Israeli regime's aggression against Islamic countries in the last decade reveals the bitter truth that this regime knows no bounds for its aggression. Direct attacks on medical centers, hospitals, clinics, ambulances, and staff working in the centers have become a normal practice for this regime. Without a doubt, effective and influential international organizations and institutions must resolutely combat attacks on medical centers anywhere in the world and by any country with all their legal means, and specifically warn the Israeli regime of the consequences of such attacks and prevent the continuation of such attacks.

Children living in the vicinity of war and armed conflicts are considered to be among the highest-risk groups, as they face interrelated physical, intellectual, and psychological consequences. This review investigated the influence of the 12-day Israel-Iran conflict on the mental health status of children and highlights risk and protective factors that play a role in the degree of consequences. Recent studies reveal that children in conflict zones are at risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic or complex traumatic stress disorder (CTSD), anxiety due to the loss of parents, and trauma related to bombings, shootings, or exposure to violence conveyed through the media. Such experiences and memories tend to manifest in the form of chronic anxiety, nightmares, irritability, concentration problems, fears of the future, as well as issues related to academic performance. Physiologically, prolonged stress results in elevated cortisol levels, weakened immune responses, and increased chronic inflammation, rendering children more susceptible to illness. High-risk factors include violence exposure, lack of economic resources, family instability, and inadequate accommodation. On the other hand, factors like a stable family structure and functioning, a secure environment, psychosocial assistance, and education in coping skills can reduce the severe mental health impacts. Because the Iran–Israel conflict combines military strikes, economic pressure, and digital media exposure, its psychological effects on children are unusually complex. Addressing this crisis necessitates comprehensive, multi-faceted interventions, including routine psychological assessments, resilience-building initiatives, media literacy education, and integrated medical, nutritional, and psychosocial support. Ultimately, safeguarding children's mental health during wartime requires coordinated policy actions at both national and international levels.

This narrative review aims to examine the relationship between fear, cognitive load, and social cohesion during acute crises, with a particular focus on wartime conditions. Drawing on the theoretical frameworks of the Polyvagal Theory, the concept of neuroception, and Cognitive Load Theory, the paper explores the neural and cognitive mechanisms underlying individual and collective responses to threats. A systematic search of scientific literature in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar reveals that the intensity and duration of perceived threat can activate different neural pathways: in manageable threats, the ventral vagal system fosters empathy and strengthens social bonds, whereas in chronic or ambiguous threats, the activation of sympathetic or dorsal vagal defense states may lead to aggression and the breakdown of social ties. Investigating social events in Iranian society demonstrates that the combination of effective threat perception management and preservation of cognitive resources plays a critical role in determining the trajectory of social cohesion. The findings have important implications for policymakers and crisis managers, emphasizing the need to enhance social safety signals, train emotion regulation skills based on the social brain, and prevent the depletion of society’s cognitive resources.

The 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June 2025, as a major geopolitical crisis in the Middle East, had widespread impacts on the economy and economic behaviors of Iranian and global society. This war not only led to the destruction of some vital economic infrastructure, a sharp decline in oil exports, and increased currency fluctuations, but also had significant psychological effects on individuals and social groups involved in economic and financial decision-making. According to numerous studies, wars not only have destructive and adverse economic effects in the short term but also impact the long-term economic behavior of society by creating changes in cognitive and emotional processes. Studies show that increased stress, anxiety, and worry caused by military and economic crises make people more inclined to save, reduce consumption, and change investment patterns, severely affecting the structure of people's decision-making in the brain. Therefore, these studies can serve as a guide for economic policymaking, crisis management, and the design of markets that are resilient to social and military shocks. In the meantime, the field of neuroeconomics, as a new interdisciplinary field, can identify and model changes in economic behavior, risk assessment, and emotional reactions of individuals in crises by expressing various analyses. In a country like the Islamic Republic of Iran, factors such as social trust, cultural norms, and religious values play an important role in moderating economic reactions, and these factors can be examined in neuroeconomic analyses. Accordingly, the analysis of the Iran-Israel war showed that Iranians, due to their evolved social cognition, resist crises with greater solidarity based on religious and spiritual beliefs, and exhibit supportive behavior to overcome economic crises.

Scientific apartheid, discrimination, and sanctions in the scientific realm can lead to the deprivation of a segment of the global community from its scientific and educational rights. Today, while one of the key dimensions of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals emphasizes the necessity of employing science and technology for growth and progress, imperialist countries have challenged the movement of independent nations by imposing discrimination in the dissemination of science and technology. Scientific apartheid is presented as a system of structural discrimination that restricts access to knowledge, education, and scientific advancement based on racial, religious, or political criteria, and is sometimes accompanied by violence. The extensive and multi-stage attacks by Israel on Iran on June 13, 2025, serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing scientific apartheid in today's world. These attacks directly targeted scientific, academic, technological, and even medical capacities and infrastructures, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians, including more than 40 prominent scientists, intellectual elites, students, doctors, and some of their families. This article examines the recent Israeli attack on Iran, which was accompanied by the targeted terror of some members of the scientific and academic community. It describes and analyzes it as a practical instance of scientific apartheid, demonstrating that such policies not only violate the principles of human rights and international law but also reflect the systematic dominance of scientific and military power aimed at suppressing and destroying independent and indigenous knowledge globally. This perpetuates a dangerous cycle of violence and discrimination that could be repeated in the future and could also occur in other countries and communities. It is essential for the international community to condemn such attacks, which have already been carried out by the Israeli regime in Iran and other parts of the world, and strive to strengthen a culture of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect in the scientific community. Only by standing against scientific apartheid can we create a world where knowledge and innovation can flourish for all.

Background and Aim: This study examines the dynamics of national cohesion in Persian-speaking cyberspace during the Iran-Israel war. The main objective was to analyze how the structure of discursive networks changed and the degree of convergence of users in critical situations in order to determine how national cohesion is formed in digital platforms and what its characteristics are. Methods: To achieve this goal, data from the two platforms Twitter and Instagram, including more than 112, 000 interactions from 11, 000 active users, were extracted. Structural changes in discursive networks in three time periods-before the war, during the war, and after it-were modeled and explained using Temporal Graph Neural Networks (T-GNN). Network topological indices (density, clustering coefficient, degree centrality, modularity) and content analysis including sentiments and discourse themes were examined. Results: The results showed that the war as a “catalytic event” caused a significant increase in network density (+78. 3%), clustering coefficient (+131. 5%), and degree centrality (+82. 9%) along with, a decrease in modularity (–34. 4%), which indicates temporary and reactive cohesion in accordance with the “gathering around the flag” theory. However, after the war (until 25 September 1404), the network structure did not return to its initial state and still had a significant difference from the pre-war conditions. The T-GCN model was able to predict topological changes and community stability with high accuracy (R² > 0. 83 and AUC-ROC = 0. 88). Also, the analysis of network indices showed that “betweenness centrality” (0. 234) and “content sentiment” (0. 189) play a key role in shaping war cohesion. The content sentiment analysis also showed a significant increase in positive content (67. 3%) with themes such as “national unity”, “defending the homeland” and “supporting the armed forces” at the height of the war, while themes related to “peace” and “diplomacy” became more prominent after the war. Conclusion: These findings indicate that national cohesion in digital platforms is dynamic, transient, and somewhat fragile in nature. Although it is rapidly reproduced in crisis situations, its long-term sustainability requires going beyond emotional cohesion. From a methodological perspective, this study shows that combining topological and content analysis using Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) can provide a new framework for understanding the complexities of collective identity and national cohesion in the digital age.

Background and Aim: Telehealth has emerged as a crucial innovation in delivering medical services, particularly in war and crisis situations in recent years. This study investigates the challenges and solutions associated with the implementation of telehealth in these contexts. Methods: The present study was conducted using a qualitative method in 2025. In the first stage, literature related to the challenges of telehealth in wartime and war zones was reviewed. In the second stage, the challenges were identified, and appropriate categories and solutions were presented based on the opinions of six experts. Results: The results show that telehealth in wartime settings encounters significant challenges, including infrastructural limitations, resource shortages, and legal issues. Utilizing satellite communication technologies, mobile clinics, and training programs for healthcare personnel are effective solutions to enhance telehealth services under these circumstances. Conclusion: Despite the challenges, telehealth serves as a crucial tool for maintaining healthcare continuity in wartime situations. Investing in infrastructure, developing security protocols, and designing specific training programs can help increase the uptake of the technology and improve healthcare quality in affected areas.

Background and Aim: The war between Iran and Israel can be examined from various perspectives. The initiator of this war was the proxy force of the United States, Israel, which, under the illusion of the country's weakness, carried out widespread assassinations of the country's military commanders and nuclear scientists and then attacked Iran's military and civilian centers. Methods: In this research, weaknesses, strengths, threats, and opportunities for this war have been identified using a survey of experts (27 experts) in the fields of military, cognitive, and political sciences and the SWOT method. Results: The most important weakness in the country is the weakness of the information system and its influence in the country, and the most important strength is the existence of a powerful and intelligent leadership and its measures. Also, the most important threat in this incident was the widespread activity of the enemy in cognitive warfare, and the most important opportunity was the strengthening of the social capital of the system and the spiritual growth of society. The war is expected to continue in an oscillating (sinusoidal) manner until one side is completely weakened (defeated), and in this regard, several factors (such as the way to respond to enemy attacks and the opening of new fronts of the war in West Asia) affect its intensity and weakness. Conclusion: The factors that created this war are divided into two categories: internal and external, the most important of which is the civilizational confrontation between Islam and the West. To reduce possible damage, comprehensive preparation is needed in the political, economic, military, security, and cultural dimensions. In this regard, it is recommended that the rapid repair and strengthening of defense, air, and missile systems be prioritized. This research attempts to provide the basis for the assessment and correct decision-making of relevant officials by utilizing multi-layered and expert analysis.

Background and Aim: The Iranian-Islamic lifestyle, emphasizing cultural and religious values, strengthens national identity and social cohesion in the Islamic Republic of Iran. This lifestyle promotes ethics, solidarity, and responsibility, contributing to the enhancement of national power and increasing social participation in achieving the country's overarching goals. This research aims to elucidate the impact of the Iranian-Islamic lifestyle on strengthening the national power of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Considering the influence of globalization on culture and national identity, this study identifies the dimensions and components of the Iranian-Islamic lifestyle and the challenges it faces. Methods: The research methodology is mixed, involving semi-structured interviews with 36 professors and academic experts from the National Defense University. Additionally, regression analysis was employed to examine the impact of independent variables on national power in the quantitative section. Results: The results indicate that the Iranian-Islamic lifestyle, as an independent variable, has a positive and significant impact on various dimensions of national power (political, social, economic, cultural, and military). The greatest impact of this lifestyle is observed on the economic dimension, while the least impact is noted on the military aspect. Conclusion: The findings suggest that strengthening religious and cultural values can contribute to social cohesion and enhance national power. Policymakers can prevent cultural threats and reinforce national identity by promoting Islamic values and educating them among the younger generation.

The application of non-ionizing electromagnetic waves is increasingly recognized as a potential component of emerging military technologies and future warfare strategies. These systems may encompass electromagnetic pulse (EMP) weapons, civilian electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops, fifth-generation (5G) communication networks, satellite constellations like Starlink, various telecommunication infrastructures, and even medical devices operating on non-ionizing radiation principles. Given their widespread use and potential for weaponization, it is imperative to elucidate the possible biological and physiological effects of exposure to such electromagnetic fields and to establish comprehensive safety standards and protective countermeasures in preparation for prospective electromagnetic warfare scenarios. In this article, the potential biological effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic waves and related weaponized technologies are examined. Current research indicates that the hazards associated with electromagnetic exposure extend beyond thermal effects, encompassing a range of non-thermal biological impacts. These include alterations in the static and dynamic electric fields of cell membranes, disruption of intracellular signaling pathways, interference with molecular interactions and organelle functions, and subsequent cellular dysfunction or apoptosis. Such findings highlight the critical homeostatic role of electromagnetic fields not only at the cellular level but also within broader physiological and systemic biological processes. Based on these potential biological and technological effects, various types of electromagnetic weapons operating within the microwave to terahertz frequency range have been developed or theoretically proposed. Although there have been unverified reports and claims in cyberspace regarding the use of such weapons during recent regional conflicts, field investigations have not provided conclusive evidence to support these assertions. Nevertheless, the possibility of their deployment underscores the necessity for continued scientific research and strategic preparedness. It is therefore essential that researchers, engineers, and defense authorities collaborate to develop effective protective measures and establish evidence-based guidelines for mitigating potential threats associated with non-ionizing electromagnetic weapons.

Iran's national religious identity, which is derived from the developed Iranian social cognitive structure, has a long and significant history. Solidarity in Iran exists despite the presence of various tribes, races, and tastes that are centered around the Persian language, belief in God, and a coherent governance structure. Committing to family and family ties, historical religious myths and symbols, resisting hardships and crises, and receiving correct feedback from global development, due to the growth of social cognition and the presence of wise and knowledgeable leadership, are other factors that strengthen national solidarity. This solidarity can be harmed by the government's monopoly of power and conflicts, the instigation of cultural self-defeat, and a widespread cognitive war against the Iranian identity. The Zionists are sworn enemies of Iran. After failing to prevent the growth and progress of Iran with their extensive tools and methods, they took direct and comprehensive action to combat its existence and hoped that it would lead to civil wars and the disintegration of Iran. Despite his predictions, solidarity in Iran has become stronger. Iranian society is capable of displaying correct and calculated responses to macro-social issues, learning from the events surrounding them, and making the right collective decisions. To maintain this solidarity, we need to reduce and control the damaging factors of solidarity and strengthen the Iranian national religious identity. The government, aligned with the people and around the leadership, must turn threats into opportunities and discourage the enemy from further encroachments on territorial integrity and Iranian identity.

During the 12-day war, fear and anxiety were created among the people of the 100 cities that were targeted by Israeli attacks. Hearing the sounds of attacks and explosions from near and far distances at all hours of the day and night, without any prior warning and in complete surprise, uncertainty about life and death, worry about an unknown future and fear of the country's economic situation collapsing, being separated from home and belongings, packing a backpack with minimal supplies and being forced to evacuate the city to seek refuge in a safe place while no one knew where the real safe place was, concern for the health of family, friends and neighbors cast a shadow of anxiety over the people. Psychological trauma during wartime includes a wide range of nervous breakdowns. But the psychological effects of post-war on citizens and governments are far more devastating than the effects of wartime. The neural mechanisms underlying stress and anxiety involve complex interactions between the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system. Key brain regions affected include the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, along with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These regions play a critical role in processing fear, regulating emotional responses, and forming memories of traumatic events. Currently, despite the ceasefire, we can observe a sense of psychological insecurity in society, as Israel has proven that it has never adhered to the ceasefire, and this uncertainty increases public concern and confusion. However, assuming that peace is sustainable, there are various forms of harmful reactions to crises. In post-crisis situations, the incidence of mental disorders, anxiety, stress, fear and depression may increase in the general population, especially in people with a history of these disorders. The aim of this study is to provide a review of the incidence of psychological trauma after war by explaining the role of key brain regions affected by this trauma.

Background and Aim: The 12-Day War against Israel inflicted not only direct physical and military damage but also significant psychological, spiritual, and social consequences for military personnel and surrounding communities. Military medicine, as a specialized and interdisciplinary field providing clinical care and psycho-spiritual resilience for armed forces, plays a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness and community rehabilitation. This study aims to present a community-based model, grounded in Islamic teachings, that aligns with the clinical, operational, and spiritual needs of military medicine, focusing on addressing spiritual injury and fostering post-war resilience. Methods: The review study is conducted as a thematic analysis, utilizing specialized military medicine terminology such as "combat care, " "battlefield stress management, " "psycho-spiritual rehabilitation, " "combat empowerment, " and "psycho-physical readiness. " Data were extracted through purposive sampling from primary Islamic texts, the Quran and Nahj al-Balagha and coded until thematic saturation was achieved in the domains of spiritual healing and resilience. Coding and theme development were conducted using MAXQDA software, version 2024. 10. Results: The analysis resulted in a four-stage framework for spiritual and resilience in military personnel and affected communities. Stage One involves the foundational redefinition of trauma as a divine test to mitigate post-traumatic psychological sequelae and strengthen the psycho-spiritual capacities essential for military readiness. Stage Two entails the recognition and acceptance of divine decree coupled with enhanced collective responsibility, which boosts team cohesion, mutual support, and operational productivity in line with military organizational values. Stage Three incorporates the application of internal coping mechanisms such as patience, gratitude, and reliance on divine support, alongside external resources like social unity, mutual aid, and social justice, to improve mental health and sustain military operational capacity. The final stage leads to spiritual resilience and collective growth, which, beyond physical rehabilitation, fosters psycho-social maturity for sustained adaptive functioning in threatening environments. Each stage is firmly grounded in Quranic verses and the teachings of Nahj al-Balagha, creating a bridge between theological perspectives and clinical/operational practice. Conclusion: This multidimensional therapeutic model, deeply rooted in Islamic spirituality and meticulously aligned with the realities of military medicine, provides a scientifically-grounded, evidence-based framework for community-led cultural and religious rehabilitation interventions. It effectively addresses the psychological and spiritual needs arising from war-related trauma. Its evidence-based implementation promises to enhance spiritual and psychological resilience, safeguard comprehensive health, and strengthen the strategic sustainability of military organizations in complex crisis and conflict environments.