Israel-Iran War: The Israel-Hamas war had not even ended when the prospect of war between Israel and Iran intensified. Many experts believe that if such a war were to occur, it could escalate into a Third World War. It is worth noting that the Israel-Hamas war has been ongoing for the past 6 months. It should be mentioned that in light of these developments, the United States has also been placed on high alert. However, the critical question is: what led to the possibility of war between Israel and Iran? Let us examine the reasons that have raised the specter of a global conflict.
The Israel-Hamas War
It is worth noting that the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023. During this conflict, in response to the deaths of 1,200 Israeli and foreign civilians in Israel, the Israeli military launched operations in Gaza, resulting in the loss of 33,137 Palestinian lives. It should be noted that two-thirds of this number were women and children. The war is still ongoing. Several countries, including the United States, have called for a ceasefire. The Gaza Health Ministry has confirmed that as of April 4, Israeli air and ground attacks have resulted in the deaths of 33,037 people and injuries to 75,668 others, while thousands more remain unaccounted for under the rubble. The ministry has stated that approximately 40% of the deceased were children.
Israeli Airstrikes in Damascus
It is worth mentioning that last week, Israeli aircraft carried out airstrikes on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, killing 7 Iranian personnel. Among the casualties was General Mohammad Reza Jahedi, a commander of the Quds Force. Following this attack, Iran has become incensed with Israel and has issued threats of retaliation. Several countries around the world have strongly condemned this attack. With Iran threatening war, Israel has been on high alert.
The Origins of the Israel-Iran Conflict
The roots of the conflict between Israel and Iran can be traced back to the 1979 overthrow of Iran’s last Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. After the Islamic Revolution, Iran’s leaders adopted an anti-Israel stance and aligned themselves with groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas. It is believed that the leader of the revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, brought a new worldview that was primarily supportive of Islam. Interestingly, the new Iranian government began referring to Israel as the “Little Satan” and the United States as the “Great Satan.”
The U.S. Position
It is worth noting that since the 1960s, the United States has been a staunch supporter of Israel. It has played a significant role in promoting good relations between Israel and its neighboring Arab states. According to a U.S. official, the United States is on high alert because, in response to Israel’s recent attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria, Iran may target Israeli or American assets. The official confirmed reports of potential attacks within the next week, stating, “We are certainly in a heightened state of vigilance.”
Is the World Moving Towards a Third World War?
It is worth noting that if a war breaks out between Israel and Iran, it could signal the start of a Third World War. Tensions have been at their peak since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. Many experts believe that if a war erupts between Israel and Iran, the United States will support Israel. Subsequently, other countries may align themselves with Iran and the United States, potentially igniting a Third World War. Since the attack on Iran, the country has been enraged and has openly challenged Israel. Speculations abound that Iran may retaliate against Israel. Additionally, Iran has warned the United States to stay away from the conflict.
