Iran-Israel conflict escalates amid missile strikes and global concerns. It is high time to de-escalate the tension
The fragile peace in West Asia has once again been shattered as Iran launched a missile barrage against Israel, intensifying fears of a broader conflict in the region. On Tuesday night, Iran fired 181 ballistic missiles, forcing nearly 10 million Israelis into bomb shelters as the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) scrambled to intercept the attack. While the Iron Dome and Arrow defence systems managed to neutralise most of the missiles, some projectiles penetrated Israel’s defences, causing minor damage. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu immediately condemned the assault, calling it a ‘big mistake’ by Iran. He warned that Tehran would face severe consequences, though stopping short of declaring a full-scale war. This marked Iran’s second missile strike against Israel this year, following a similar offensive in April. Iranian officials claimed that the missile salvo was in retaliation for the recent killings of senior Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, targeted in Israeli military operations.
The missile strike has drawn immediate international reactions, with the United States issuing a stern warning to Iran. US President Joe Biden has assured military support for a joint response to any further aggression from Iran. However, The involvement of the US in the conflict could further destabilise the already volatile region, raising concerns of potential Iranian retaliation not just against Israel but also against US military interests in the region. Add to this the entry of Russia and China into the conflict. Meanwhile the humanitarian crisis is escalating, with hundreds of thousands displaced across Lebanon and Gaza. As the death toll rises, regional stability is being tested, with fears that Iraq and Jordan, both geographically close to the conflict, could be drawn into the violence. The global community is urging de-escalation, with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres leading calls for an immediate ceasefire. While diplomatic efforts continue, the possibility of a long-lasting peace seems distant, with both Israel and Iran preparing for further confrontations. The time is running out for the peace in the region and the world. As it would not be long before both Russia and China also join the war should the US and the West get involved any deeper. The path to de-escalation lies in concerted diplomatic engagement by major global powers, especially the US, Russia, and European nations. In this scenario India could play a crucial role which has a neutral stance and is friends with both Russia and the US and also Israel and Iran. Indeed, the immediate focus should be on creating humanitarian corridors for civilians caught in the conflict zones and ensuring that aid reaches those affected by the violence in Lebanon, Gaza and Israel. Establishing a no-fly zone and enforcing a temporary halt in military operations could create a conducive environment for peace talks.
