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The primary goal of the US-Israel strikes on Iran is to weaken the Iranian military and destabilize the current regime, particularly targeting leadership figures and military infrastructure. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that these operations aim to empower Iranians to influence their own fate, potentially leading to regime change. The strikes are part of a broader strategy to counter Iran's influence in the region and address concerns over its nuclear ambitions.
Iran has expressed strong condemnation of the US-Israel strikes, with its Foreign Ministry stating that the country will not hesitate to defend itself. There have been reports of panic among the Iranian populace, with civilians fleeing cities and gas stations seeing long queues. Additionally, Iranian leaders like Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei have threatened retaliation against US and Israeli forces, indicating a commitment to respond to perceived aggression.
The conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance has deep historical roots, including the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which established the current Islamic Republic, leading to adversarial relations with the West. Previous tensions were exacerbated by Iran's nuclear program, US sanctions, and military interventions in the region. The recent strikes can be seen as a culmination of years of escalating rhetoric and military posturing, particularly following failed diplomatic negotiations over Iran's nuclear capabilities.
The Ayatollah, specifically Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, serves as the Supreme Leader of Iran, holding significant political and religious authority. As the highest-ranking official, he influences all branches of government, military, and media. Khamenei's leadership has been characterized by staunch opposition to Western influence and a commitment to Iran's revolutionary ideals. His role is pivotal in shaping Iran's foreign policy, especially regarding relations with the US and Israel.
The international community has reacted with concern and condemnation regarding the US-Israel strikes. Russia, for instance, condemned the actions as an unprovoked aggression against a sovereign state and called for a return to diplomacy. Various countries have expressed fears about escalating tensions in the Middle East, and some regional powers have begun reassessing their security strategies in light of the potential for broader conflict.
The US-Israel strikes on Iran have significant implications for global oil prices, as Iran is a key player in the oil market. Following the attacks, oil-linked futures surged due to fears of supply disruptions and potential retaliatory actions from Iran that could threaten oil shipping routes in the Gulf. Such volatility can lead to increased prices at the pump and ripple effects on global markets, heightening economic uncertainty.
The strikes could destabilize the Middle East further, potentially igniting wider conflicts involving Iran and its regional allies, such as Hezbollah and various militia groups in Iraq and Syria. Increased military engagement may lead to retaliatory strikes and a cycle of violence, undermining any existing diplomatic efforts. The situation raises concerns about the safety of civilians and could lead to humanitarian crises in the affected areas.
These events echo past US interventions in the Middle East, such as the 2003 invasion of Iraq, which also aimed at regime change. Similar to that situation, the current strikes are justified by US officials on the grounds of national security and countering threats. However, the backlash from the local population and the potential for long-term instability highlight the complexities and unintended consequences often associated with military interventions.
Recent diplomatic efforts have included attempts to negotiate a nuclear deal with Iran, aimed at curbing its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. However, these talks have stalled, particularly after the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The failure to reach a consensus has led to increased tensions and military posturing, culminating in the recent strikes.
Iranian opposition leaders, such as Reza Pahlavi, have expressed support for the US-Israel strikes, framing them as a necessary action to assist the Iranian people in overthrowing the current regime. They argue that the military actions could provide a catalyst for change and liberation from authoritarian rule. This perspective highlights a division within Iranian society regarding the legitimacy and effectiveness of foreign intervention.
