The US is bracing for a potential terror attack by Iranian-backed sleeper cells following the country's strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities on June 21. According to NBC News, Iran warned President Donald Trump at the G7 summit that any attack on its nuclear program could trigger retaliation on US soil. Two American officials said Tehran may activate sleeper cells in response.
Vice President JD Vance told NBC News that federal agencies are closely tracking the threat. “We’re confident in our law enforcement,” he said. “But we’re taking this very seriously.” Security has been ramped up at places of worship in cities like Washington, D.C. and New York, while the White House continues to monitor possible threats linked to Iran.
Tensions between the US and Iran are just one example of how long-standing rivalries between nations can escalate into open hostility. Whether through war, economic sanctions, or diplomatic standoffs, some countries remain locked in conflict for decades, driven by deep-rooted suspicion, ideological divides, or clashing national interests.
So, which countries have the greatest rivalries? Click through and read about the issues dividing these nations.