Has World War III Begun? The US Bombing of Iran and the Middle East Conflict

NEWS of the U.S. bombing Iranian military sites in response to escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves across the globe. Under President Donald Trump, the United States has just carried out a massive airstrike on three of Iran's most heavily fortified nuclear facilities: Fordo, Natanz, and Esfahan. With the use of GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs, the United States attacked targets that were out of Israel's capabilities. Trump lauded the bombing as most deadly and efficient military actions in modern history.

With this news, many are now asking: Are we seeing the beginning phase of World War 3? As tensions in the Middle East intensify, Christians are turning to the Bible for insight—seeking to understand if these events are mere politics or a fulfillment of ancient prophecies.

The Middle East region is always on the brink of war. It has long been the epicenter of conflict, but the current direct involvement of the United States in the Israel-Iran war marks a significant turning point.

For decades, Iran—formerly known in ancient times as Elam and Persia—has publicly threatened Israel’s destruction, funded proxy militias, and aggressively developed weapons. In turn, Israel has launched precision strikes against Iranian nuclear infrastructure and weapons depots.

Now, with the U.S. joining militarily, the theater of war has expanded. Allies are choosing sides. The world is watching.

Iran in Bible Prophecy

The Bible doesn’t mention "Iran" by name, but Elam and Persia—ancient territories now part of modern Iran—are mentioned in several prophetic scriptures. Prophet Jeremiah speaks of a time when disaster will strike Elam as it warned:

"Behold, I will break the bow of Elam, the foremost of their might… I will bring disaster upon them, My fierce anger,’ says the Lord; ‘And I will send the sword after them until I have consumed them. I will set My throne in Elam, and will destroy from there the king and the princes,’ says the Lord.”

— Jeremiah 49:34–38

But the above warning ends with a promise: “In the latter days I will restore the fortunes of Elam.” (verse 29) This suggests both judgment and eventual redemption for this region.

More significantly, Ezekiel 38-39 mentions a coalition of nations, including Persia (Iran), that will rise against Israel in the latter days. While opinions differ on the timing and details, many scholars believe this prophecy depicts a large-scale war involving Israel’s enemies, including modern Iran.

What Jesus Said About War

Jesus Himself spoke plainly about a world unraveling in the last days:

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” (Matthew 24:6)

Jesus didn't tell His followers to panic. Instead, He warned that global conflict is part of a larger prophetic picture—birth pains that will precede His return.

In Matthew 24:7-8, He added:

“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.”

We are seeing many of these signs converging in our time: global wars, economic uncertainty, natural disasters, and spiritual confusion.

What Should We Do?

In light of the current conflict, how should we prepare?

1. Spiritually Prepare. Make sure your relationship with God is strong. In chaotic times, only God’s Word gives true peace. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)

2. Watch and Pray. Watch the news and pray for discernment. Jesus told His followers to “watch” the signs of the times and “pray always” to escape coming tribulations (Luke 21:36). That means being alert—spiritually and mentally—not fearful, but discerning.

3. Stay Informed but Not Overwhelmed. Watching the news is necessary, but don’t let fear dominate your heart. Let the Bible interpret the headlines, not our personal biases.

4. Stocked Up Family's Supplies. In times of war or unrest, practical steps matter—storing food, water, emergency supplies—without obsessing or hoarding.

Where to Find Hope

While the possibility of world war is terrifying, believers are not without hope. Scripture reminds us that God is still in control. The kingdoms of this world will rise and fall, but God's Kingdom is eternal.

Jesus promised in John 16:33:

“In this world you will have tribulation. But be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Paul also encouraged everyone to:

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." (Romans 12:12)

Whatever happens geopolitically, those who trust in Christ are promised victory—not through weapons or politics, but through His unshakable Kingdom. The storms of war may come, but “He will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You.” (Isaiah 26:3)

Final Thoughts: Watch, But Don’t Fear or Panic

World events are aligning with Bible prophecy. While the U.S. bombing Iran could be a spark in a global war, it could also be one more piece in the prophetic puzzle. Now is not the time to panic—but to pray, prepare, and seek peace in Christ.

“When these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” (Luke 21:28)