AFTER Israel’s air attack on Iran on Saturday (26/10), all parties were urged to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
Middle East observer Smith Alhadar assesses that the Middle East situation is currently in a burning phase, even though Iran does not want a full-fledged regional war.
“The current situation in the Middle East can of course be said to be burning. Even though Iran does not want a full-fledged regional war, Israel’s massive attack on Iran’s air defense system, missile bases and drone facilities (which of course is a naked violation of Iran’s sovereignty and dignity) “It seems difficult for Iran to restrain itself,” Smith told Media Indonesia.
According to him, Iran has said it will retaliate indefinitely at a time chosen by Iran, making it impossible to call for de-escalation without condemning Israel.
“The US excuse that Israel only exercised its right of self-defense for Iran’s attack on Israel on October 1 is difficult to accept because it shows the double standards of the US and its Western allies,” he said.
“We know that when Israel attacked the Iranian Consulate in Damascus, killing two Iranian Revolutionary Guard generals and Israel’s attack on Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran (both of which violated international law and Iran’s sovereignty) there was no condemnation from the US and Western allies,” he continued.
Smith said Iran’s step in bringing this issue to the UNSC was appropriate. This is an opportunity to de-escalate and respect international law if at least the UN Security Council passes a resolution condemning Israel.
“But if the US and UK veto a resolution that is detrimental to Israel, then the situation will escalate, bringing the Middle East to the edge of a complete war, especially if Iran retaliates with massive attacks on Israeli facilities and strategic sites,” he concluded. (Fer/Ant/P-3)
#Observers #Deescalation #Difficult #Condemning #Israel
**Title: Analyzing Tensions in the Middle East: An Interview with Observer Smith Alhadar**
**Interviewer:** Today, we welcome Middle East expert Smith Alhadar to discuss the current situation following Israel’s recent air attack on Iran. Thank you for joining us, Smith.
**Smith Alhadar:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** The recent airstrikes have raised significant concerns about escalating tensions in the region. Can you explain why you consider the situation to be in a “burning phase”?
**Smith Alhadar:** Absolutely. The term “burning phase” encapsulates the heightened volatility we are witnessing. While Iran has been cautious about avoiding a full-scale war, Israel’s assault on strategic sites, including air defense systems and missile bases, has pushed the boundaries of restraint for both nations.
**Interviewer:** What impact do you think this escalation will have on the broader region?
**Smith Alhadar:** The implications could be severe. Such actions often trigger retaliatory measures, which could involve not only Iran but also its allies in the region. The potential for wider conflict grows when multiple parties feel threatened or cornered.
**Interviewer:** Many are calling for restraint, especially from major powers like the U.S. What role do you see the U.S. playing in this situation?
**Smith Alhadar:** The United States has a critical role as a mediator. However, any call for restraint must come with a clear condemnation of actions that escalate conflict, such as Israel’s airstrikes. Without that, it becomes difficult to promote a pathway to de-escalation and humanitarian action.
**Interviewer:** what steps do you believe should be taken to alleviate the tensions in the Middle East?
**Smith Alhadar:** First, immediate diplomatic dialogues must be initiated to address grievances. Second, international pressure on both sides to refrain from further military actions is essential. Lastly, a focus on humanitarian assistance can help ease the suffering caused by these conflicts and may lay the groundwork for sustainable peace.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Smith, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. We hope for a peaceful resolution soon.
**Smith Alhadar:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for calm in these turbulent times.
