The impact of the Iran-Israel war on betting

War and political tension don’t just affect governments and borders—they influence people’s daily behavior, even in digital spaces. One of the first industries to feel the shockwaves is online betting. The conflict between Iran and Israel has led many users to change their betting habits. Some have become more cautious, while others are turning to gambling as a way to cope. This shift reveals that betting isn't just for entertainment anymore—it’s also a response to stress and uncertainty.

Has the War Decreased or Increased Betting?

Contrary to initial assumptions, statistics and user behavior show that betting didn’t decrease after the conflict began. In fact, activity on some games even rose. Especially on days with intense war-related news, more users turned to betting platforms. The reason is simple: many sought an escape from the anxiety-inducing news cycle, while others tried to profit from economic instability. The rise in the dollar’s value and economic insecurity also pushed some users to move their money into games quickly.

Which Games Became More Popular During the Crisis?

Fast and thrilling games like Crash and Roulette have become more popular during this period. Users preferred quick-result games where they could win or lose in minutes. In contrast, games that require patience—like football betting—saw a decline in interest, especially when the matches themselves were postponed or influenced by political issues. Some users even shifted toward non-sports bets, such as predicting the start of the war or the reactions of different countries.

How Are Users Accessing Betting Sites Under Heavy Restrictions?

With increased censorship and internet disruptions, accessing betting sites has become harder—but users have found workarounds. VPNs, Tor browsers, mobile apps, and Telegram-shared links are commonly used tools to bypass filters. Additionally, many have adopted digital wallets and crypto exchanges to enter the betting world with more freedom and less concern about traceability.

Cryptocurrency: The Lifeline of Bettors During Wartime

When credit cards fail or anonymity becomes essential, cryptocurrency becomes the go-to option. During this conflict, usage of digital assets like Tether (USDT) and Bitcoin on betting sites has increased significantly. These currencies offer speed, security, and independence from banks. Many users now prefer crypto transactions over traditional payment gateways. Some have even moved to decentralized Web3 platforms that eliminate the need for central servers or websites altogether.

How Are Iranian Users Behaving in Times of Unrest?

A segment of users has become more impulsive during this time, placing larger bets in search of quick wins—believing tomorrow might bring more restrictions or currency devaluation. On the other hand, another group has reacted in the opposite way: they bet more cautiously, using smaller amounts with calculated decisions. Some even started betting on politically related events, approaching gambling from a more strategic angle.

These dual behaviors show that in times of crisis, betting becomes more than just a pastime—it becomes a psychological and environmental response to external pressures.