By Iqra
Another looming crisis in the Middle East exacerbated by Israeli actions, poses a significant threat to regional stability and peace. The Iran-Israel relationship has not always been as fraught as today, Iran was one of the first countries in the region to recognise Israel after its formation in 1948. Israel’s airstrike on April 1, 2024, targeted Iran’s consulate in Syria, resulting in casualties including two Iranian generals and five other military officers. After two weeks Iran has launched a massive aerial attack on Israel in retaliation for the April 1, Israeli strike. It is the first time Iran has attacked Israel directly. Main factors that have contributed to the escalation of bilateral tensions, Iran support and funding to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which are openly hostile towards Israel and the United States.
The Iranian government has indicated that it considers the matter resolved, but it remains uncertain how Israel will respond or what the future holds. Western nations, including Israel’s ally, the USA, have cautioned Israel against escalating into open warfare with Iran. A direct conflict could quickly involve Gulf states, given their geographical location and the presence of U.S. military bases committed to defending Israel. The international community is pressing Israel to avoid further retaliation, as any attack on key Iranian sites could destabilize the entire region.
The Middle East plays a critical role in global energy supply, especially oil. Any increase in tensions could disrupt oil production and transportation, affecting global oil prices. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passageway located between Oman and Iran, handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, underscoring the potential global impact of regional disturbances.
The Israeli military, which is already engaged in conflict, seems to have broader regional aspirations that could potentially trigger a larger conflict, stretching from the Middle East to a possible World War. The international community has criticized both Iran and Israel for their actions. Iran’s ally states such as China, and Russia, which maintain strategic ties, have expressed serious concerns about the escalating situation and have condemned Israel’s aggressive behavior.
If Israel chooses to retaliate militarily against Iran’s airstrike on April 13, it could further heighten tensions not only in the region but globally. The ongoing conflicts in Russia, Ukraine, and Palestine, coupled with this new development, could potentially escalate into a global conflict. The international community urged to impose military and economic sanctions on Israel to curb its aggressive policies and to encourage influential nations to play a constructive role in fostering regional peace and stability.
The Writer is the Researcher of International Relations at International Islamic University Islamabad.
