As the conflict in Gaza intensifies and results in the tragic loss of thousands of children and teenagers and the destruction of numerous homes, a multitude of questions emerge for the affected people, the families of the victims, and many politicians. These are questions that cannot be easily brushed aside.
Why did this war commence, and what were the underlying factors that led to it? Who set the stage for this conflict, and how can a ceasefire be achieved? Moreover, what measures should be taken to ensure lasting peace in the region?
Beyond these questions, it is crucial to delve into the historical context and origins of these conflicts, much like a criminal investigation seeking fingerprints and traces of those who may have benefited from this turmoil. It is at this juncture that we must examine the apparent and concealed influences of the Iranian regime in these tragic events. Another Middle East conflict appears to be brewing, and the Iranian regime’s involvement is becoming increasingly evident.
The Extent of the Iranian Regime’s Influence in the Gaza Conflict:
1. The Iranian regime is unique in its official and declared policy of exporting crises to other nations to divert attention from its internal issues. Prominent leaders of the regime, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, have repeatedly acknowledged that if they do not engage in conflicts in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, they will face turmoil within Iran. In the recent incident, they did not hesitate to reiterate this stance. Kayhan, a publication closely associated with Khamenei, unabashedly stated, “The Islamic Republic of Iran’s policy was to confront threats beyond its borders to safeguard domestic security.”
2. The Iranian regime stands alone in terms of officially budgeting resources for intervention in regional countries, with its proxies in Lebanon frequently reporting significant financial support from Qassem Soleimani, the slain commander of the Quds Force and regime officials. A Friday prayer leader in Bandar Abbas declared on October 27, “Look at the nation’s overall military budget and the support provided to Gaza, which bolsters our national security.”
3. The Iranian regime is the sole party that openly expresses satisfaction and even appears to relish war. From early celebrations and rallies, their representatives eagerly welcome conflicts, suggesting a longstanding anticipation. As the Friday prayer leader of Mashhad stated, “These days, the hard revenge we all dreamed of and longed for is finally becoming a reality. I dedicate my life to this leadership and the Islamic Republic system.”
4. The Iranian regime faces significant challenges of internal uprisings and potential overthrow. Their Friday prayers leaders have asserted that regional wars can quell these uprisings and bring “blessings.” The Friday prayers leader of Isfahan remarked, “This Al-Aqsa storm brought blessings.” On October 12, Ahmad Alamolhoda, a senior cleric, stated, “They aimed to eliminate us, to overthrow us. They aimed to advance, to overthrow Islam, and the Al-Aqsa storm arrived, closing this front and thwarting their intentions.”
5. One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of this war is the loss of civilian lives on both sides. However, the religious regime is the only entity that deems this loss as normal, natural, and even necessary. They essentially dismiss the killing of civilians in Israel. As one of their officials previously remarked, “Those in kibbutzim and similar places are not civilians; they are all armed.” They consider the killing of innocent individuals in Gaza as a form of gratitude and praise for their grieving families: “When his son becomes a martyr, he praises God, and the injured teenager thanks God.”
6. The Iranian regime is the only power outside the conflict that does not advocate for peace and stability. Instead, it continuously issues threats, engages in blackmail, and drums up support for the expansion of the war. Khamenei declared on October 17, “People are angered, and if this aggression persists, Muslims and resistance forces will grow impatient, and nothing can deter them. When impatience becomes a reality, no one can restrain them.”
Based on these indicators, it is apparent that the Iranian regime’s involvement in this bloody conflict is pronounced. The regime seems willing to employ any means necessary to prolong this war, thereby averting internal crises and staving off the impending uprising and revolution.
