In a recent segment of "Metro at Noon“, the international relations specialists, Dr. Gabriel Alemán Rodríguez, assistant professor in the Department of Social Sciences at the University of Puerto Rico, Arecibo Campus, and Dr. José Rodríguez Vázquez, interim director of the Department of Social Sciences at the same academic institution, shared an analysis on the conflict between Iran and Israel.
The conversation offered a historical, political, and geopolitical overview that allows for a better understanding of the complexity of current tensions, highlighting the key points that have shaped the relationship between both countries over the decades.
Historical Origins and Transformation of Relationships
The analysis highlighted that the root of the conflict dates back to the foundation of the State of Israel in 1948, after the Second World War. Initially, Israel and Iran maintained cordial relations, but the situation changed drastically after the Islamic Revolution of 1979 in Iran. With the establishment of the theocratic regime of the ayatollahs and the ideological interpretation that sees Israel as an enemy of Islam, a deep and lasting rivalry was established.
- 1948: Establishment of the State of Israel, starting point for tensions.
- 1979: Islamic Revolution in Iran that transforms Iranian foreign policy and establishes an ideological rivalry against Israel.
Nuclear Factors and the Threat of Destruction
Another critical aspect of the conflict lies in the nuclear dimension. Although Israel remains a secular state despite coexisting with religious movements, the possibility that both countries possess “nuclear souls” increases the threat it poses to regional and international security.
The discussion explained that while Israel is suspected of possessing nuclear weapons, Iran has advanced in the development of nuclear technology. This potential for mutual destruction is shaping up as a concerning factor that could further destabilize the region.
Geopolitical Implications and the Role of Foreign Powers
The conversation highlighted the crucial influence of the United States in the conflict, both in military and economic support to Israel and in its role in international diplomacy. It is no coincidence that the region is at the center of power struggles, with the Persian Gulf being a vital area due to its oil and gas reserves, which affect economies worldwide.
In addition, the following implications were analyzed:
- American support: Provides political, military, and logistical backing to Israel, including blocking humanitarian aid initiatives in international scenarios.
- Global economic impact: The Gulf region is crucial as it houses approximately 40% of the world’s oil reserves, which affects energy prices on a global scale.
- Geostrategic importance: Although historically seen in the context of bipolarism, today it is observed in a scenario of multipolarity, where controlling strategic regions such as the Persian Gulf is crucial for the world order.
The Case of the Palestinians and the Construction of the International Discourse
Another point that was discussed was the way in which the conflict between Israel and Iran is framed in the context of the long-standing dispute between Israel and Palestine. It was pointed out that, while the recent attacks between Israel and Iran generate international headlines and mobilize major powers in forums like the G7, the situation of the Palestinians remains an ongoing tragedy in the Gaza Strip. This contrast reveals how political narratives are constructed to favor certain geopolitical and economic interests, often leaving aside conflicts that affect vulnerable populations.
Impact on the Global Economy
The discussion highlighted that, despite the physical distance, the conflict has international repercussions. The increase in the price of gasoline and speculation about energy supplies show how instability in the Middle East can trigger inflationary effects and impact logistics and trade globally.
Final Reflection
The complexity of the conflict between Iran and Israel lies in its long history, the influence of foreign powers, and the convergence of economic and geopolitical interests. Understanding these elements is essential to grasp the dynamics of a confrontation that goes beyond a local dispute and impacts the international community on multiple levels.