The worst attack on Israel in decades caught Israel, the United States, and the world by surprise. The extent of the attack and the tools of war used give every indication that Iran was involved both in supplying the weapons and in the timing of the attack. At least 70 citizens, including the elderly and children, have been killed and hostages have been taken into Gaza. There is fear that Hezbollah may attack in the North. Israel will do what it has to do to free their citizens and reclaim the land taken. Israel has responded with limited attacks and has indicated that it has every right to unleash a devastating response on those responsible.
There is already much discussion on what has contributed to this attack. Israel claims it was unprovoked. But there are many factors that have already been noted.
Biden’s negotiations with Iran have taken off sanctions, allowed them to sell their oil, and agreed to free up billions of dollars of Iranian funds in exchange for hostages. Those funds weren’t needed for this attack; Iran has been rearming Hamas for years. They now have more resources to fund their hidden nuclear plans and further supply allies willing to rain terror on Israel. It’s clear that Iran has always promised to destroy Israel and eventually the “Great Satan,” America. They now have the funds to help make that happen.
The timing could also be influenced by the progress of negotiations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The meetings with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman have been continuing even though major obstacles remain. Saudi Arabia, concerned about the growing strength of Iran, is asking for help in creating the nuclear capability to match Iran.
Conflict exists between the countries on multiple levels, competing for geopolitical, economic, and sectarian influence in pursuit of regional dominance. Their political and economic struggle is exacerbated by religious differences. Iran sees itself as the leading Shia Muslim power, while Saudi Arabia sees itself as the leading Sunni Muslim power in the area. Saudi Arabia is working to increase its ties to the US. Iran is nurturing better relationships with Russia and China.
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In short, an improved relationship between Israel and Saudi Arabia is not something Iran supports. Hamas was given the weapons to send a message to those Muslims who want peace with Israel.
There is no question that the more militant wing in Israel has been looking for a reason to neutralize the Iranian threat. The US has increased the strength and capabilities of their most potent enemy. By supplying Hamas and enabling this attack, not only have they freed Israel to respond; they’ve even moved the UN to condemn the attack and those responsible.
The first response from the Biden administration came through the U.S. Office of Palestinian Affairs. They condemned the attack by Hamas terrorists but added, “We urge all sides to refrain from violence and retaliatory attacks. Terror and Violence solve nothing.”
Israel is unlikely to take that advice to heart. You can expect Israel to do whatever it takes to neutralize the ability of Hamas to make further attacks. They will send ground forces initially.
If it is proven that the weapons came from Iran, expect Israel to use the attack as a reason to eventually unleash their forces to neutralize the nuclear capability of Iran. Netanyahu has already said that “we are at war.” There is concern that the number of rockets used by Hamas may have depleted Israel’s Patriot missile defense capabilities. That may delay any expanded conflict, but there is still danger that the middle east may yet explode into a bigger war.
There are other concerns. What if this is but the tip of the spear? What if the timing of this attack is but the first salvo against the West? The United States may become Iran’s next target.
With President Biden’s open border, there has been evidence of terrorists joining the illegal immigrants in crossing into the United States. Some have been apprehended, but there is no guess as to how many potential terrorists have infiltrated into our country and been bused to our major cities.
If Iran wants to extend its target beyond Israel, they may very well have the people in place to take its attacks to the United States. While we watch the middle east explode into war, it would be wise for Homeland Security to work overtime in finding and neutralizing any such threats.
With wars raging in the Ukraine and new conflict expanding in the middle east, the world faces a growing threat with nuclear implications. We have a President who is compromised and seemingly incapable of admitting mistakes or being decisive. The House of Representatives is distracted, working to choose a new Speaker and continue their investigations into criminal allegations against Hunter and the President. The nation is divided and just a year away from presidential elections. It is time to unite, but can we?
May we unite in prayer for the innocents in harm’s way and in support for our allies at this difficult time.
Terry Paulson is PhD psychologist, author, and professional speaker on Earned Optimism, Making Change Work, Claiming Your American Dream, and Becoming a Conservative Values Voter. Contact him at terry@terrypaulson.com.
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