Israel-Iran war: How Israeli airstrikes are redefining middle eastern power dynamics with US support

Richard Goldberg, a senior adviser at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, believes the US should fully support Israel.

Israeli military strikes are aimed at Iran's allies across a vast 2,000-mile area. This effort threatens Iran directly and could reshape its influence in the region. The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 helped Iran gain power.

In capitals like Washington, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem, debates are ongoing. Supporters and critics of Israel's actions have differing views on US involvement. As Israel gains ground against Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, it continues its campaign against Hamas in Gaza.

Richard Goldberg, a senior adviser at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, believes the US should fully support Israel. He argues that this is necessary until Iran’s regime falls like past dictatorships. Some Israeli politicians echo this sentiment.

On the other hand, Yoel Guzansky, a former Israeli security official, suggests the US should join Israel in attacking Iran directly. This, he believes, would send a strong message to Iranian leaders.

Critics warn against repeating past mistakes made during the Iraq War. They caution that military victories must come with clear goals and plans for the future. Vali Nasr, a former adviser to the Obama administration, argues Israel risks perpetual conflict without resolution.

With limited restraint from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the US and its partners may have to adapt to his strategy. Randa Slim, a researcher at the Middle East Institute, fears lessons from Iraq are being ignored.

Supporters of Israel's military campaign hope to weaken Iran and its proxies. They view these groups as threats to the US, Israel, and regional stability. However, opponents argue that military action without addressing Palestinian grievances could lead to prolonged violence.

Amidst the ongoing strikes, Iranian leaders had shown interest in renewing nuclear negotiations. They expressed concerns over Israel's actions, indicating a potential shift in diplomacy.

Israeli airstrikes have recently targeted Hezbollah, significantly damaging its leadership. Meanwhile, Israel's operations against Hamas in Gaza continue. Despite this, Hamas managed to launch rockets at Tel Aviv, showcasing its resilience.

Further Israeli strikes on Iran could escalate tensions. This follows Iran's missile retaliation for the deaths of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. The US has historically sought to avoid a full-scale regional war.

Israeli attacks have also disrupted US mediation efforts for ceasefires. Although US leaders support Israel's actions, they urge restraint. Vice President Kamala Harris affirmed America’s commitment to supporting Israel while advocating for peace in the region.

Israel’s campaign raises questions about the potential weakening of Iran's military alliances. These alliances have expanded since the US invasion of Iraq. Supporters of the invasion believed a democratic Iraq would emerge, but the aftermath saw a rise in Iranian influence and extremist groups.

The lessons from the Iraq War remain pertinent today. An assessment by the US Army noted that Iran emerged as the main victor of the conflict. Iraqi democracy has yet to materialise.

Ihsan Alshimary, a political science professor in Baghdad, noted that few foresaw Iran supporting Russia today. This shift is a direct result of the increased Iranian power post-invasion.

Global leaders currently lack clear plans for the future of the Middle East. While Iranian and allied forces are being weakened, US influence appears diminished as well. The situation could become precarious for Israel if it finds itself embroiled in prolonged conflicts.

After decades of hostility, the conflict between Israel and Iran is intensifying. Mehran Kamrava, a Middle East expert, suggests that this could alter the strategic balance in the region.

He noted, "We are on the brink of significant change." However, the direction and implications of this change remain uncertain.