Tag: Israel

  • What’s the Game Israel and Iran Are Playing?

    What’s the Game Israel and Iran Are Playing?

    Over the past year, Israel’s conflict with Hamas has escalated into a broader confrontation with Iran. The Jewish state and the Islamic Republic have exchanged missiles and now trading hostile rhetoric. While many fear an all-out war involving multiple states, In reality, it looks like Israel and Iran show little genuine interest in such a conflict. Instead, both countries prefer maintaining tension and inflicting sporadic casualties without escalating to a full-scale war. They each appear very interested in the ‘game’ they’re playing.

    This ongoing rivalry—the geopolitical game between the two countries—dates back to Iran’s establishment as an Islamic Republic, a theocratic state with a declared intent to eliminate Israel. Iran views this as a holy duty, waging what it considers a sacred war through its proxies in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The struggle has been perpetuated, with death seen as a martyr’s reward. Meanwhile, Israel does not consider itself safe as long as Iran remains strong. While the tensions between these two countries have always been present, they avoided direct conflicts. However, over the past year, they have begun to engage in fighting directly against each other.

    Many across the globe, especially those with peaceful intentions, struggle to comprehend this intense conflict, which is far from an ordinary territorial or independence dispute. For Iran and its allies, it is a matter intertwined with faith, divinity, and existential beliefs. Meanwhile, Israel’s supporters advocate for survival and security. In the latest development, Israel launched fresh waves of missiles toward Iran. This move, in response to Iran’s barrage on Israel, was carefully measured to avoid severe escalation or interference with the upcoming U.S. presidential election. 

    The direct strikes in between Israel and Iran, avoiding proxies, began on April 1st when Israel targeted the Iranian consulate in Syria, resulting in the deaths of Iranian officials. In response, Iran launched missiles on April 13th, though most were intercepted by Israel’s defense system, which has become quite effective. Israel further humiliated Iran by killing Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31st, followed by the assassination of Iran’s leader’s closest ally and chief of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah.

    Iran felt compelled to retaliate to maintain its standing in the Islamic world, and on October 2nd, the International Day of Non-Violence, it launched missiles at Israeli cities, some of which breached Israel’s famous Iron Dome defense system, stunning Israeli forces. But On October 25th, Israeli missiles flew toward Iran.

    Interestingly, although there is always fear that missile exchanges could lead to heavy casualties and escalate tensions to the brink of World War III, as noted by X pundits, nothing has happened. Business continues as usual, which raises suspicions of a conspiracy suggesting that there may be some understanding between the two countries, despite the geographical distance and potential U.S. interference to de-escalate tensions.

    There are reasons to believe that there may be a covert understanding between Israel and Iran, as both states appear to benefit significantly from the ongoing tensions. Israel’s government was on the brink of collapse, with key political figures facing corruption trials, while Iran faced a severe internal political crisis between Islamic conservatives and Persians. Initially, the war between Israel and Hamas, and now Israel and Iran, has effectively prevented the collapse of Netanyahu’s government. Hamas’s brutal attack served to unify a deeply divided Israeli society, restoring the country’s prominence on the international stage—a space it had almost faded from as Saudi Arabia rose to prominence in the region.

    Iran, too, has gained from this conflict. The country has managed to unite its deeply divided populace through anti-Israel sentiment, seen by many within the Muslim community as a religious obligation. Across the Islamic world, Iran is perceived as a strong supporter of Gaza and Palestine, bolstering its regional standing. By demonstrating an ability to counter Israel’s missiles, Iran projects itself as a powerful force. Notably, Gulf countries seem more inclined toward cooperation with Iran, as recent statements from the Gulf countries express solidarity with Iran’s territorial integrity following missile attacks. Given that both countries appear to derive considerable benefits from the conflict, the likelihood of de-escalation in the Middle East seems increasingly slim.

    While both Israel and Iran seem to be playing a deadly game that appears to bring them close to open conflict, with missiles flying between them yet causing minimal real harm, several neighboring countries are bearing the brunt—such as Lebanon, Syria, and potentially Iraq in the future. These countries, which lack the influence or capability to mount any resistance, are the true casualties in this conflict. If it escalates into a full-scale war, as some pundits predict, these nations will suffer the most. Meanwhile, the U.S. as a ‘referee’ and the U.N. as a ‘sideline referee’ seem ineffective. Worldwide onlookers, watching this heated game, divide themselves between supporters from the global left and Muslim communities on one side and right-wing factions on the other. Both sides eagerly cheer on social media, voicing their support with rage.

  • Is Israel humiliating the UN?

    Is Israel humiliating the UN?

    The United Nations is often portrayed in textbooks as a powerful coalition of states backed by global superpowers and a forum for peaceful conflict resolution, upholding its charter to maintain peace and security. But in reality, It’s not!! It’s neither powerful nor an effective forum. From its inception, its limitations have been evident: the UN struggles to influence superpowers and is often relegated to dealing with smaller states, those with restricted influence. Today, as we face heightened global tensions after the Gulf War, the UN’s failures are increasingly visible—in Libya, Syria, Ukraine, the Middle East, and many other regions.

    This tough phase of the UN is taken as an opportunity by the countries who want to humiliate the Institute. Israel, backed by the United States and right-wing allies, and Palestine, supported by the left and the global Muslim community, including over 57 Muslim-majority countries, are entrenched in a high-stakes standoff that the UN appears powerless to mediate effectively. Unlike the 1940s and 1950s, when Israel abided by certain UN resolutions while Muslim countries were largely disengaged, Israel now disregards UN resolutions and breaches charter principles with apparent impunity, escalating tensions and challenging the UN’s authority. The ongoing Israel-UN tensions underscore a profound humiliation for the UN, as it struggles to assert influence in this protracted conflict, and even UN-affiliated people get targeted.

    UN peacekeepers and UN-affiliated UNRWA workers in Gaza and Lebanon who are refusing to evacuate despite official orders are increasingly under attack, and sustaining injuries. The Guardian, the British left media reported recently that the Israel Defense Forces forced entry into a UN base and repeatedly targeted their positions, wounding five personnel. In Gaza, nearly 230 UNRWA aid workers, who are also part of different Palestinian organizations, have been killed. The UN is confused in this matter while Israel looks assertive. Earlier this month, Israel declared UN Secretary-General António Guterres persona non grata, and in May, its outgoing ambassador to the UN publicly shredded a copy of the UN Charter.

    The UNRWA, short for “United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East,” is committed to delivering assistance and promoting the human development of Palestinian refugees. UNRWA’s mandate covers Palestinians who fled or were displaced during the 1948 Nakba and subsequent conflicts, along with their descendants, including legally adopted children. As one of the few non-Islamic organizations dedicated to Palestinian refugees, UNRWA registers over 5 million Palestinians. Amid rising Israel-UN tensions, the agency has drawn particular attention with its action on the battlefield. Israel has long opposed UNRWA’s recognition of Palestinian refugees’ right of return, recently going as far as attempting to classify it as a terrorist organization, despite the agency’s lack of advocacy for violence besides the alleged affiliations with groups like Hamas. However, it does not formally endorse such organizations. But the UN has previously acknowledged that nine of the agency’s 13,000 employees in Gaza might have been involved in Hamas’s October 7 attack—findings that have damaged the agency’s reputation, and that’s enough for Israel to take revenge on the UNRWA.

    Israel is concerned with UNRWA’s great influence and their effort to keep alive Palestinian dreams, and often become a shelter for the terrorists. They also worrying increasing the voice of Muslim states in the UN general assembly and they are concerned about the UN bodies supporting the Palestinian version over even a neutral one. And a country like Israel surrounded by threats can’t neglect the Palestanization of the UN. So they started to target the UN and its agencies, and humiliating them is the way Israel found out.

    The UN is now a beleaguered institution. Its structure, its operation, its works, its opinions everything is getting questioned. The Security Council is questioned now by almost everyone including the countries within it. And has repeatedly been deadlocked, with the US, the UK, and France on one side and Russia and China on the other.  And it’s easy now for Israel to undermine the intuition. While social media and the internet are now well circulating the Israeli version of the conflict,  the UN’s attempt to push the Palestinian version will further collapse belief in the UN.

    The UN, several European countries, and the Islamic world condemn the actions of Israel against UN peacekeepers. They believe because a few people from UNRWA participated in the October 7th attack, and the frequent rising of voices for Palestine, Israel is finding revenge on the UN. But it must be said that the UN can’t do anything; everything will remain on paper. This old man is expecting a death he has long wished for, and Israel enjoys the complaints from him.

  • Is Now the Time to End the War?

    Is Now the Time to End the War?

    Israel has finally killed Yahya Sinwar, the man behind the notorious October 7th attack that stunned both Israel and the world. This attack triggered Israel’s war of revenge, resulting in the deaths of thousands in Gaza and extending into Lebanon and Syria. It also allowed Israel to spread its version of the story worldwide—a success for Sinwar. Israel ensured the targeted elimination of Hamas leaders, even those who sought refuge in safe havens. One by one, Israel eliminated their targets, and by the end of the year, no prominent figures remained on their early hit list. With Israel proving its dominance in the region and its opponents greatly weakened, is it time to end the war?

    Following the deadly attack on October 7th, Israel initiated a counteroffensive with the goal of eliminating threats from Hamas and the Gaza Strip, specifically targeting those responsible for the attack that killed more than 1,200 Israeli civilians. However, as now Israel killed  higher numbers than those inflicted by Hamas. Some Palestinian sources estimate the death toll to be around 40,000, although Israel contests this figure. And Over the past year, Hamas has significantly weakened in the Gaza Strip. Its network of tunnels—which once gave it an advantage—is being destroyed, and most of its major leaders have been killed. No one believes Hamas is capable of mounting a serious threat now, but Israel is not ready to stop.

    Given the religious dimensions of this conflict, both Israel and the Axis of Resistance—comprising the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies, such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—consider it their duty to continue fighting and eliminating one another. However, amid this ongoing warfare, countless innocent lives are impacted, becoming collateral damage in what is often described as a holy rivalry.

    Israel is now escalating its response to secure a safer northern border by targeting Hezbollah, another key member of the Axis of Resistance and a major ally of Iran in the region. Several missile strikes have continued even after the confirmed killing of Hamas leaders. It is clear that Israel is now targeting the entire Axis of Resistance. In addition to Hezbollah’s base in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen are considered potential targets for Israel’s immediate strikes. Iran’s infamous October 1 missile response is still anticipated.

    Israel has a reason to show the world that they are not safe unless they eliminate the threats. The October 7th attack by Hamas demonstrated this vulnerability to the world. Israel has also realized that the Arab world is unlikely to unite against them, and Hamas’ actions have generated considerable pro-Israel sentiment in the West, despite some opposition from left-wing and Islamist groups. Domestically, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government have received a significant boost from the war, recovering from last year’s political struggles, even though Netanyahu still faces corruption charges.

    So, the answer to the question is clear: if Israel is benefiting from the war, why would they stop the process now?

    But the pressure is high from Western leaders. U.S. President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister, and the French President, all calling for the death of Sinwar to be converted into an opportunity to seize the war. The mood is similar in the Arab world as well, and within Israel, reports indicate that there are protests urging an end to the war to save the hostages held by Hamas. However, Netanyahu has said No. Israel has its reasons for this stance. Any pause in Israel’s actions would help Hezbollah and other groups, including Iran, to structurally rebuild their organizations and prepare for the next attack. They have all united for this goal: to eliminate the Jewish state.

    It cannot be denied that Hamas may even rise again from the ashes of Gaza with the help of Iran, as they view it as a global Muslim duty. They can easily recruit and continue their efforts. The last video of Sinwar portraying him as a martyr has attracted many Muslim youths around the world.

    So for Israel and the Israeli government, it would be a blunder to stop the war based on the demands of Western states, and they are now in a position where it is not easy to do so. Everyone knows that even a break would only set the stage for the next war.

    For Iran, stopping the war could be beneficial, but it would also reopen existing problems within the state. They cannot bind their people with hatred toward Israel forever. Therefore, the likelihood of the continuation of the war is higher than that of a ceasefire. The war could potentially stretch for more years, ultimately concluding with the end of one state—either Israel or the Islamic Republic. The chance of ending the second one seems greater.

  • A Year That Redefined the Middle East

    A Year That Redefined the Middle East

    It has been a year since Hamas, the organization that controls Gaza, carried out a cross-border attack on Israel. The brutal attack on October 7, 2023, drastically reshaped the politics of the Middle East. The old narrative of a united Islamic front against Jews has faded, shrinking into a conflict between Shia Muslims and Jews, while Sunni Muslim governments have largely withdrawn, appearing more aligned with Israel. Hamas’s attack, likely an Iranian attempt to disrupt the growing relationship between Saudi Arabia, a leading Sunni state, and Israel, seems to have clearly backfired. It shifted the narrative from portraying Palestinians as victims of a cruel Israel to one where Israel is seen as needing counterattacks for security. Deeply humiliated by the unexpected assault from Iran’s proxy, Hamas, Israel is now in full retaliation mode—not just against Hamas, but targeting all Shia militant groups, with Iran as the ultimate focus.

    The Hamas attack is now being commemorated worldwide on its anniversary. Today, many events and rallies are taking place globally to remember the largest massacre of Jews since World War II. More than 1,200 men, women, and children were killed that day in a country built to guarantee their safety. Another 250 people—including a nine-month-old baby—were taken hostage. Many remain captive, and some may never return home.

    Following the Hamas attacks, Israel received considerable global sympathy. The country has since leveraged this support to embark on a mission to eliminate all threats surrounding its borders. Additionally, the attacks successfully united a nation that had been deeply divided over internal politics. Prime Minister Netanyahu, a shrewd and seasoned politician, has skillfully capitalized on the situation.

    At the same time, many pro-Palestinian and anti-war rallies are taking place on the anniversary of Hamas’s attack on Israel. Many supporters view Hamas’s actions as revolutionary and believe they should be commemorated. Interestingly, these pro-Palestinian rallies are widely seen in Europe and parts of Southeast Asia, while countries like India and those in the GCC have remained largely absent

    These rallies condemn Israel, which is now punishing Gaza and Lebanon. They argue that Israel’s right to defend itself does not allow it to violate the laws of war. Protesters are outraged by the Israeli onslaught on Gaza, which, according to Gaza’s health authorities, has killed over 41,500 Palestinians, most of them women, children, and infants—though Israel disputes these figures. Survivors are displaced, starving, and desperate, as the humanitarian crisis deepens with Israel continuing its war. Additionally, around 2,000 people have been reported dead in Lebanon, with deaths also reported in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran in relation to the conflict.

    Destruction and bloodshed in the Middle East are expected to continue, with strong fears that the region is sliding deeper into war. What began with Hamas and Hezbollah has now clearly escalated to involve Iran. It is becoming increasingly apparent that the conflict is primarily between Israel and Iran, with less focus needed on groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, or the Houthis.

    The war on social media, which spreads misinformation and hate, has become more visible over the years and is likely to intensify in the coming days. Over the past year, we’ve witnessed a decline in the reliability of traditional media regarding the Israel-Iran proxy conflict, often labeled as liberal, left-wing, or pro-Islamic by critics online.

    When analyzing the October 7th attack and its aftermath, it is clear that the Middle East no longer resembles the previous era, when Palestine united not just Arab nations but Muslims worldwide. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria—once vocal opponents of Israel—seem disengaged now. Many had expected these governments to rally behind Hamas, but that support has significantly faded in recent months.

    In global politics, Israel has regained its importance and is enjoying a stronger position. Another political shift is evident: while Europe, with its large Muslim population, is witnessing more pro-Palestinian rallies, Asia, which used to be the epicenter of such movements, now appears more pro-Israel, especially in countries like India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This conflict between Israel and Iran also highlights a unipolar world, with Russia and China appearing weaker in international politics. Most importantly, the Palestinian dream—the global Muslim dream of Palestinian statehood—seems to be fading.

  • How Israel Could Destabilize Iran

    How Israel Could Destabilize Iran

    Iran, the land of the Aryans and the cradle of civilization, has a rich history shaped by the rise and fall of many kingdoms over the centuries. This diverse and multicultural nation has experienced unity under the formidable leadership of great rulers. Today, modern Iran, known as the Islamic Republic, encompasses a diverse array of cultures and ethnicities, even as it is predominantly characterized by its Shia Islamic identity. The current theocratic regime is infamous for its forceful enforcement of Islamic laws and values, and it also applies considerable pressure on various ethnic groups within the country while extending its influence over other nations through religiously motivated militant organizations.

    Iran keeps many Islamic issues alive and is known for challenging Saudi Arabia over the leadership of Islam. Its long standing desire for leadership in the Muslim world has contributed to ongoing tensions with Israel. Relations between the two states are at an all-time low, marked by missile exchanges and targeted attacks on leaders. Though Iran and Israel do not share a direct border, Iran’s political influence extends into areas near Israel, and both have engaged in a proxy conflict for years, often framed as a holy war. Now, however, Israel seems determined to end this indirect conflict and neutralize the threat from Iran.

    Many believe that rising tensions could lead to a full-scale war, while others argue that Israel will refrain from such actions, as Iran’s geographic position—controlling the strategic Strait of Hormuz—gives it significant leverage. Iran’s geography has always made it a difficult country to conquer. However, Israel seeks revenge, as retaliation has been a defining part of its history. Therefore, most likely, they will adopt a highly strategic approach, with the ultimate goal of dismantling the Islamic Republic. Political experts believe Israel may exploit Iran’s complex ethnic makeup, which has only been held together by the tougher actions of the Islamic regime thus far.

    Iran has consistently accused Israel and the West of exporting Western values into the country, which it believes could threaten its theocratic government. It has also accused foreign governments of attempting to influence various ethnic groups within Iran that share cultural ties with other sovereign nations. As a result, Iran has closed many communication channels to the outside world. However, Israel is likely to breach these barriers to provide more information to the Iranian people, considering information a powerful tool to undermine the Islamic Republic. Israel may also play a role in promoting the growing celebration of pre-Islamic Persian glory, which could challenge the Islamic Republic, a regime accused of sacrificing Persian identity for an Islamic one.

    Iran is at risk of fragmentation if Israel decides to act. While Iran’s mountainous geography provides a strategic advantage, it also serves as a natural barrier that isolates various communities with different ethnicities, languages, and identities. Many of these groups, such as the Azeris, Kurds, Arabs, Baloch, Turkmen, and Mazandaran, maintain foreign connections or share ties with neighboring countries. These regions have preserved their distinct identities despite the challenges posed by Tehran. Some of these regions demand greater autonomy, while others lean toward separatism. However, the Islamic Republic will not tolerate such movements and continues to attempt to unify the population through religious identity and increasingly authoritarian measures.

    During the 1979 Islamic Revolution, three ethnic groups—Kurds, Turkmens, and Arabs—backed by their counterparts abroad, attempted to ascend and form an independent state. The Azeris demanded more autonomy, and although they were suppressed, the situation remained volatile and could flare up again. Israel could potentially assist in this regard. The United States and the United Kingdom, known for similar practices, might ally with these ethnic groups and their kin abroad based on Israel’s interests. The Azeris will seek to unite with Azerbaijan, and the Kurds in Iran will likely also pursue the formation of a grand Kurdistan.

    Additionally, the oil-rich Arab regions in Iran could attract special U.S. support, and such a move could completely collapse Iran’s economy. In southeastern Iran, the Baloch have maintained close ties with their counterparts in Pakistan, aiming for a separate state from the very beginning. This cross-border ethnic solidarity could easily destabilize Iran, especially since Tehran currently has poor relationships with its neighbors. If they lose control over these territories or make them volatile again, the Persian-majority region could shrink to a landlocked state, jeopardizing all its geopolitical advantages.

    It needs to be considered that Israel is already stretched in its efforts to build strong relationships with Azerbaijan regarding Azeri separatism and with Saudi Arabia concerning Arab separatism. Through the growing relationship with Saudi Arabia, Israel can also exploit the Sunni-Shia conflict. The Baloch territories, which are demanding separatism, are predominantly Sunni.

    Recognizing the challenges posed by Israel, Iran is also developing counter-strategies. They present themselves as the saviors of Muslims, not only for Shia but for all branches of Islam. They demand unity from other Islamic countries to carry out their religious task of eliminating Jews. Mass arrests of protesters or separatists from various ethnic groups, accused of terrorism, are also taking place. However, Iran is playing a risky game; as long as they target Israel, they are at risk of collapse.

  • How Does Iran Grant Israel a License for Direct Attack?

    How Does Iran Grant Israel a License for Direct Attack?

    There is no room for talks, compromises, or peace in the ongoing “Holy War” between Israel and Iran. The conflict has escalated far beyond the initial Israel-Hamas confrontation and Israel’s retaliatory actions following the October 7th Hamas attack. It has now transformed into a broader war between Jews and Shiite Muslims, rooted in centuries of conflict. There had been hope that the leaders of Israel and Iran would avoid direct confrontation, recognizing the massive regional repercussions, and that the fighting would remain limited to their proxies. However, recent missile attacks by Iran on Israel have raised fears that both countries are preparing for an all-out war.

    While Israel and Iran do not share a direct border, the conflict would likely involve air strikes, with both sides seeking maximum destruction. Such a war would likely be more devastating than previous Israel-Arab wars. It is fair to say the Islamic Republic of Iran is at greater risk, as Israel has demonstrated its ability to eliminate enemies, even from a distance, through strategically planned operations. By engaging in direct conflict, Iran’s Islamic Republic is digging its own grave, much like Hamas did.

    Israel, it seems, had been waiting for the right moment – perhaps even wanting a provocation from Hamas, one that would justify its long-standing desire to eliminate the group. When Hamas launched its attack, with its sheer scale and brazen style, it gave Israel the pretext to escalate its response to a new and more intense level. Around this time last year, Israel was in a precarious position. The nation’s political landscape was fractured, with deep divisions tearing at the fabric of its government. Protests rippled across the country, aimed squarely at its leaders. Internationally, too, Israel was grappling with a diminished standing as Saudi Arabia emerged as a rising regional power, frequently outpacing Israel in garnering the favor of the United States. Sensing an opportunity, Hamas sought to capitalize on Israel’s weakened position, launching the terrorist attack on October 7th. But what was likely intended to further destabilize Israel instead offered the nation an opportunity to unite and strike back with renewed force.

    Now, nearly a year later, Israel is in a position of triumph. They have regained their place at the center of international politics, reaffirming their status as the United States top ally in the region. Domestically, they are more unified despite earlier divisions, and they have successfully eliminated key leaders of their enemies. Hamas and Hezbollah lost their top figures, Ismael Haniyeh and Hassan Nasrallah, while these leaders remain in hiding. Israel’s military success, along with its strategic use of information warfare via the internet, has garnered global support in an unprecedented way.

    However, the real challenge for Israel comes from the Islamic Republic of Iran, whose theocratic government believes that eliminating Israel is their duty. Iran doesn’t intervene directly but leads the clashes through proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah. Iran has previously launched missiles in solidarity with its suffering proxies, responding to the humiliation faced from Israel, but these attempts failed. Meanwhile, Israel, which takes every step more cunningly in this war, is waiting for a motive for a direct strike on Iran.

    Recently, on October 1st, a day before the Jewish New Year and the International Day of Non-Violence, Iran launched another missile barrage on Israel and supported an attack by Hamas. While the success rate was low, it stunned both Israel and the world. Iran may feel it succeeded in demonstrating its capabilities to the international community, but in reality, it has given Israel the opportunity to increase pressure and mount further attacks on Iran, much like how Hamas’s actions led Israel to invade Gaza. Israel can now present itself as being targeted by Iran, positioning its retaliatory actions as necessary for its self-defense.

    The fear of an all-out war or escalation between Israel and Iran and their respective allies is at an all-time high. Iran’s recent actions are indicative of its frustration. The Islamic Republic’s most significant leverage is its role as the protector of Islam, and any questioning of that role could result in a loss of grip on power. Should Iran lose this grip, it could lead to the downfall of Hamas, Hezbollah, and many other organizations backed by Iran, making it imperative for the regime to demonstrate strength to the world. However, this situation now provides Israel with a license to target even Tehran. Israel possesses an almost insurmountable advantage over Iran in long-distance aerial attacks, advanced technology, and espionage. 

    Many believe that the Islamic Republic of Iran, with its diverse ethnic backgrounds and internal cultural divisions, presents a vulnerable target for Israeli intelligence, which could weaken the country strategically before a full-scale war ever becomes necessary. Through carefully planned moves, Israel could potentially destabilize Iran, reducing the need for a large-scale conflict. Nevertheless, it is clear that the Islamic Republic of Iran is now a key target for Israel. 

  • Why Is South Asia So Involved in the Israel-Palestine Conflict?

    Why Is South Asia So Involved in the Israel-Palestine Conflict?

    There are countless problems to be fixed in the poor South Asian countries, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, and Nepal. Even though they have different positions and perspectives, they all struggle with poor living conditions, lack of employment, corruption, political dynasties, and more. While these issues dominate the daily lives of their populations, they are increasingly focused on a different concern: the Israel-Palestine conflict, which they seem to adopt as their own. In India, society is divided between pro-Israel and pro-Palestine supporters, and it has become a heated topic in Pakistan, where pro-Israel sentiment is almost unthinkable, but people have taken to the streets in support of Palestine. On September 29, pro-Hezbollah protesters clashed with police in the streets of Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, after demonstrators attempted to reach the U.S. Consulate. The police fired tear gas as protesters threw stones and attempted to breach barriers. A similar wave of unrest is also rising in Bangladesh. Why? Why are these countries so deeply involved in this conflict?

    The answer is clear and specific: religion. South Asia is deeply intertwined with religion. Both the population and administration are heavily influenced by religious beliefs. The region, which is the birthplace of prominent religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, is also home to around 600 million Muslims. Clashes between followers of Indian religions and Islam, as well as intra-Islamic conflicts, are common in these countries. Since Palestine is an emotional issue for Muslims globally, it has always featured prominently in South Asian society and politics. The Islamic countries in the region—Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Maldives – harbor strong animosity toward Israel. Every incident in Gaza and the West Bank brings people to the streets, sparking anti-Israel protests. Calls for tougher actions by their governments against Israel, as well as protests against Western embassies and consulates, are common in these nations. Fundamentalist and terrorist groups unite in their anti-Israel stance, advocating for the boycott of Israeli products. Politicians in these countries are often reluctant to engage with Israeli officials because, regardless of their achievements, they risk being labeled as anti-religious or anti-national. The ongoing events in Gaza and Lebanon have further fueled hatred towards Israel among the population. Many Pakistanis believe that, as a nuclear power, Pakistan could do more to support groups fighting the holy war against Israel by supplying weapons, and they are willing to join the fight. A similar sentiment prevails in Bangladesh. Many believe that if the current conflict escalates into regional wars, people from Pakistan and Bangladesh, who are largely poor, unemployed, but deeply religious, could be recruited by these groups.

    In India, the situation is more complex. The socialist, communist, and Islamist parties, which rely on the votes of the more than 15 million-strong Muslim population, have consistently raised the Israel-Palestine issue in the public sphere. The Indian National Congress (INC), the grand old socialist party that led the government for most of independent India’s history, supported the two-state solution, recognizing both Israel and Palestine. However, the party and its government gave a clear preference to Palestine and its leaders, who were often celebrated as revolutionaries, with the Indian media also contributing to India’s pro-Palestine stance.

    However, when Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a Hindu nationalist party, came to power in 2014, the situation changed dramatically. While the government did not abandon the two-state solution, it shifted away from its pro-Palestine stance and gave more support to Israel. Modi, who developed a personal friendship with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, strengthened the relationship on a national level as well. Consequently, the Indian government became more aggressive in countering pro-Palestine narratives, promoting India’s historical ties with Jews, and pushing a more pro-Israel perspective.

    Cities in India that once saw massive rallies in solidarity with Palestine now witness almost no demonstrations for the cause. As the public became more educated about the Israel-Palestine conflict from its roots, many began to see Palestine as primarily an Islamist issue. As a result, Islamist organizations in India no longer receive the widespread public support they once did, causing significant disappointment among the country’s Muslim population

    This evolving landscape of distrust and fundamentalism has become another major concern in the region. South Asia has no direct connection to the Israel-Palestine conflict beyond religious ties, but it is now causing further divisions within societies, most visibly in India. India’s shifting stance towards Israel has generated significant discontent among its Islamic neighbors, causing their hatred for Israel to also evolve into hostility towards India. This is clearly evident in social media spaces, where Indian groups and those from neighboring Islamic countries are often in conflict. As always, this deepens the divisions within societies that are already fractured by religious views. Therefore, we can say that, aside from Israel and its immediate neighbors, South Asia is also heating up under the mounting tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

  • Israel Aims to End the “Axis of Resistance”

    Israel Aims to End the “Axis of Resistance”

    Hamas lies in ruins, Hezbollah is in disarray, and the Houthis are increasingly under attack. Iran, the chief backer of these groups, has lost both its key strategist and its revered military leader to assassination. The so-called Axis of Resistance – formed as a Shia military coalition in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, with the goal of destroying the Jewish state and asserting Shia Islamic dominance – now faces an existential crisis. Following the unprecedented assault it suffered on October 7, Israel, with precise and methodical force, has embarked on a campaign to eliminate all remaining threats. Its multi-front offensive is not only altering the regional balance but driving this once formidable alliance to the brink of collapse.

    Israel remains resolute in its campaign, despite criticism from international media, political groups, and human rights organizations, as it continues to prioritize its security. The Israeli military presses forward, targeting key Hamas leaders, even those who believe they are safe outside Gaza, showing little regard for the ongoing hostage situation. However, the expansion of operations into Lebanon to target Hezbollah was less anticipated. Hezbollah presents a more geographically and strategically challenging position for Israel, as it operates from Lebanon with access to Iranian support and maintains a robust infrastructure, often blending into civilian populations.

    However, Israel’s intelligence apparatus, including Mossad, has delivered significant blows to Hezbollah, which could shatter the group’s confidence and operational strength. On September 17th and 18th, a coordinated electronic attack using pager bombs killed several Hezbollah operatives. There were also reports following the deaths of several high-ranking leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah, the group’s longtime commander, along with other key figures. Although Hezbollah denies it, Israel claims to have also killed Abu Ali Rida, Hezbollah’s last remaining senior military commander. Meanwhile, Israel continues to launch precise missile strikes against Hezbollah targets, including second-tier leaders and munitions, in contrast to Hezbollah’s less effective retaliatory fire.

    Beyond military action, Israel is reportedly attempting to strategically exploit divisions within Lebanon’s population, particularly among Christians, Sunni Muslims, and Shia Muslims who migrated from the south. Social discourse is filled with reflections on Lebanon’s rich history and its decline, attributed to the influx of this migrated population. Lebanese expatriates lament the country’s downfall, blaming these sectarian divisions, which further weaken Lebanon’s defenses against cross-border actions. This narrative helps to portray Israel’s actions as targeting Hezbollah, not Lebanon itself.

    Unlike in the past, Sunni Arab nations, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, appear unwilling to intervene in Lebanon’s favor. Previously, they had united to fight against Israel in solidarity with Palestine. Interestingly, Saudi Arabia, a Sunni powerhouse, is likely content as Israel begins to target the Houthis in Yemen – another Iranian-backed faction that has fought against Saudi Arabia. The Houthis, who previously launched missiles at key Saudi targets and inflicted significant losses, have also attacked Israeli-linked ships and even launched missiles toward Israel, making them the next likely target of Israeli strikes. Israel has already initiated attacks on the Houthis, and, much like with Hezbollah, its approach appears calculated and deliberate.

    Iran-backed militias in Syria and Iraq, two collapsed countries due to civil war and foreign interests, are also expected to attack Israel in solidarity with Palestine as part of Iran’s axis of resistance. Although they are trained and supported by Tehran, they currently pose less of a direct threat to Israel. Israel will likely neutralize them with relative ease, as it has done with similar threats in the past.

    The leader of the axis of resistance, the Islamic Republic of Iran, is now facing its greatest setback. They are losing control over other states through their Shia military units due to Israel’s actions. And It is a humiliation for them, as Israel’s reach extends within borders to eliminate key leaders of these militant groups who seek refuge in Iran. No Iranian city is now beyond Israel’s reach, making the country increasingly vulnerable. Some even accuse Israel of orchestrating the killing of former president Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash. Israel is also reportedly working to destabilize the Islamic Republic through information warfare, posing a significant threat to the very existence of the regime.

    The Israel-Hamas conflict, often labeled by the media as the Israel-Palestine conflict, is increasingly being viewed as an Israel-Iran conflict. No Arab countries are showing interest in this situation, not even the official governments of Lebanon and Yemen. Iran and its proxies, known as the axis of resistance, are isolated and now feeling the full wrath of Israel.

  • Israel Expands War to Southern Lebanon

    Israel Expands War to Southern Lebanon

    After a series of missile exchanges and targeted strikes, it is clear that Israel is now at war with Hezbollah. Having nearly completed its campaign in Gaza, Israel is shifting its focus to the next target, following a well-executed plan. However, this conflict will not be as straightforward as Gaza. In Gaza, Israel primarily dealt with media coverage of civilian casualties – images of dead bodies, crying children, and grieving women that fueled international outrage from left-wing and liberal movements. Militarily, Hamas posed little threat. In contrast, Hezbollah operates from Lebanon, an independent country with strategic advantages, such as its mountainous terrain and easy connections to Iran and other regional militant groups. Nevertheless, Israel appears determined, and the war is already in motion. Lebanon, a nation already devastated by economic and political collapse, faces the grim possibility of becoming the next Gaza.

    Lebanon’s health ministry reports that at least 500 people have been killed and 1,645 injured in a series of Israeli airstrikes on alleged Hezbollah targets, marking the highest daily death toll in the country since the end of its civil war in 1990. As Israel intensifies its offensive, thousands of residents are fleeing towns and villages in southern Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the military’s actions as shifting the security balance along Israel’s northern border, though his remarks seemed to downplay the severity of the situation. Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, indicated that the military is preparing for the next phases in Lebanon, withholding further details. Israel appears determined to dismantle Hezbollah’s parallel governance in southern Lebanon, which it claims exists solely to target Israel and pursue a religious mandate to kill Jews.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported striking over 1,300 Hezbollah targets in the past day, marking its most extensive assault on the group since the Gaza war began last October, when Hezbollah started attacking in solidarity with Hamas. The success rate of Israel’s missile operations remains high, and more strikes are expected in the coming days, possibly before any ground invasion is considered. Earlier in the day, the IDF issued warnings to Lebanese residents in Beirut and other areas via phone calls, urging them to evacuate and avoid buildings suspected of housing Hezbollah weapons. Israeli media later clarified that these strikes were not indiscriminate missile barrages but were specifically targeting Hezbollah operatives, including Ali Karaki, the group’s third-ranking military commander. Reports suggest the operation was successful. Meanwhile, about 35 rockets were fired from Lebanon toward Israel’s Safed area, with some landing in open fields near the community of Ami’ad, according to the IDF.

    Lebanon is now bracing for the possibility of a ground war, not by mobilizing its military but by focusing on protecting its citizens. A direct confrontation with Israel is beyond the country’s capabilities, and unlike Hezbollah, the Lebanese people do not view martyrdom in battle as a national or religious duty. Families fleeing southern Lebanon are publicly pleading for apartments or rooms to shelter their loved ones. Grassroots housing efforts have quickly emerged, with individuals coordinating calls for available spaces and hostels offering discounted rates to those displaced by the conflict. Meanwhile, international efforts to evacuate foreign nationals from Lebanon are underway, with countries like the U.S. issuing calls for peace, though such interventions often prove ineffective. Hezbollah, for its part, has vowed to continue its strikes in support of Palestinians and Hamas.

    For over four decades, a shadowy and unyielding conflict has simmered between Israel and Hezbollah. Now, with steely determination, and despite the geographic and military risk factors, Israel appears intent on bringing this protracted struggle to a definitive conclusion. Israel’s resolute commitment to pursue this conflict may push Hezbollah into a corner, even though they appear stronger on paper. It is clear that, just as Gazan civilians have borne the brunt of hostilities, Lebanese civilians, too, will face the consequences. While Israel has been forged in the crucible of existential threats and built to withstand aggression, Lebanon, fractured and vulnerable, is far less prepared and could easily collapse. Should a ground war unfold, it would not only devastate Lebanon but also send ripples throughout the region. Such a conflict would signal to militants in Syria, Yemen, and Iran that they need to prepare for what lies ahead.

  • What is happening in Lebanon?

    What is happening in Lebanon?

    Lebanon, the volatile home of Hezbollah, finds itself reeling from a bewildering series of explosions. Just a day after thousands of pagers detonated in unison across the country, a new wave of blasts from seemingly innocuous devices – walkie-talkies, laptops, radios – claimed the lives of 14 people, injuring 450 more. On Tuesday, the shocking detonations of pagers linked to Hezbollah members killed 12 and left nearly 3,000 injured, a grim spectacle that stunned not only Lebanon but the world, both in its method and its sheer scale of destruction. By Wednesday, reports of further explosions spread like wildfire across messaging apps, with disturbing images of shattered devices and smoldering buildings circulating rapidly, 

    As Lebanon teeters on the brink, already frayed by political dysfunction and administrative paralysis, it faces a new and bewildering crisis. The source of these devastating attacks remains shrouded in mystery, and citizens, now fearful of their own electronic devices, find themselves paralyzed in a country unable—or unwilling – to respond. While Israel has yet to officially claim responsibility, many cast accusatory glances in its direction. Civilians are increasingly caught in the crossfire, victims of what appears to be Israel’s widening focus on Hezbollah. Yet within Hezbollah itself, a disquieting confusion has surfaced, even as the group vows retribution. The ominous specter of a Hezbollah-Israel conflict hangs in the air, inching Lebanon ever closer to the precipice of war. Poor Lebanon, once again.

    Information is still emerging, but multiple explosions were reported on Wednesday afternoon in Beirut’s southern suburbs and the southern city of Tyre. Social media images showed vehicles ablaze and smoke billowing from residential areas, as reports of walkie-talkies and even solar cells exploding surfaced. Shockingly, blasts were reported at funerals as well. Chaos gripped the streets, with ambulances rushing to aid the injured and panic spreading as more explosions were reported. 

    There is growing fear among the public about how Israel might have executed such an operation, raising concerns over the involvement of vast global supply chains, stretching from Japan and Taiwan to Europe. Some suspect these supply chains may have been infiltrated, allowing devices to be equipped with small amounts of high-powered explosives – between 1 and 3 grams. Reports suggest that Hezbollah members suspect the blasts are linked to batteries, with several removing and discarding batteries from their radios after one exploded during a funeral in Beirut. While most affected devices appeared to be communication systems, there were also reports of other objects, like solar panels, causing explosions.

    Israel has neither claimed responsibility nor made any official comments regarding the explosions. However, investigations are underway by various parties, and international media has ramped up its coverage, saturating the digital sphere with the unfolding story. Both Hezbollah and the Lebanese government have pointed fingers at Israel for the attacks. Experts believe as Israel’s operations in Gaza approach their final stages, and they are moving to the next stage. Israel’s long-term strategy remains unclear, but these explosions represent a significant escalation against Hezbollah and Lebanon. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced on Wednesday that the army would redirect resources and forces from its nearly year long campaign in Gaza to the northern front.

    The attacks dealt a heavy blow to Hezbollah, not only operationally but also in terms of psychological warfare, raising questions about the group’s standing within Lebanon. As Israel wraps up its operations in Gaza, it now faces threats primarily from the north, particularly along its borders with Lebanon and Syria. In Syria, Israel holds an advantage due to its control over key strategic areas, but Lebanon presents a more complex risk. The recent explosions seem to signal Israel’s intent to pressure both Lebanese authorities and Hezbollah, demonstrating that no one is beyond its reach.

    Hezbollah has vowed revenge, but it must acknowledge that Israeli intelligence operates with a sophistication that may surpass its own capabilities. Despite this, Hezbollah faces a critical dilemma; the attacks have been a severe blow to its reputation, and failure to retaliate could undermine its very existence. As tensions rise, the Lebanese people should brace themselves for further hardship.