The recent escalation between Iran and Israel has brought the Middle East to the brink of conflict, with potential global ramifications. The tension escalated when Israel launched an attack on Iranian soil, retaliating against previous Iranian missile and drone strikes prompted by Israel’s attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria. This tit-for-tat aggression has raised concerns about the possibility of a broader conflict between the two nations.
One of the significant concerns stemming from this conflict is the potential impact on global oil prices. With Middle East being a major oil exporter and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, any disruption to oil supply from the region could lead to a significant spike in oil prices and an oil crisis worldwide. The strait, through which 22% of the world’s oil passes, is particularly vulnerable to blockades or disruptions in the event of a conflict.
The escalation between Iran and Israel is not isolated but is intertwined with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Iran’s support for various proxy groups in the region, including Hezbollah in labenon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Hamas in Palestine, further complicates the situation. Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza have resulted in significant civilian casualties, exacerbating tensions in the region.
The recent events in the Middle East depict a troubling escalation, with Iran and its proxies increasingly challenging Israel and its allies. The axis of resistance, led by Iran and including groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis, has become more assertive with Iran’s support, engaging in direct confrontations with Israel. On the other hand, countries such as the USA, UK, and Germany firmly support Israel. The USA has consistently vetoed ceasefire proposals for the Israel-Gaza conflict at the UNSC, while Russia and China supports the ceasefire. This widening divide at global level seems to taking shape to the formation of new alliances. On one side, there are the USA, UK, and several European nations, while on the other, Iran, Russia, China, and North Korea appear to be forming an alliance. This situation poses a significant risk not only to regional stability but also to global peace and security.
PM Modi rightly emphasized that this is not an era of war. Instead, the international community should focus on promoting development over conflict. It’s essential to demonstrate wisdom and prioritize development as proof of intelligence. With numerous conflicts posing a threat to the world, such as the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, or tensions between Iran and Israel, the world cannot afford another war. Moreover, any conflict, even if not nuclear, can lead to widespread destruction and harm humanity. Therefore, it’s imperative for the international community, including major powers like the US, China, Russia, and India, to make concerted efforts to reduce tensions and prevent war. The consequences of war are dire, and it’s the ordinary people who suffer the most.
The international community must prioritize ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas and exert pressure on Iran and Israel to de-escalate tensions. Moreover, addressing other conflicts in the region, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, is crucial to alleviating the strain on global resources and preventing further humanitarian crises.
In conclusion, the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel underscores the fragility of the situation in the Middle East and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions. With the world already grappling with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and other conflicts, another war in the region would have devastating consequences. It is imperative for world leaders to prioritize peace and diplomacy to prevent further escalation and mitigate the humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Abbas Ahmad Rather is a Research School
Email:- abbasahmad059@gmail.com