Achieving Lasting Peace in the Middle East Requires Regime Change in Iran

[Social Media]

 

One year after the horrific attacks by Hamas, Iran's leadership continues its unyielding war against Israel, a conflict deeply rooted in Tehran’s strategic aims. October 7, 2023, will forever be remembered as a day of infamy. Comparing it to Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, what Hamas did to innocent Israeli civilians stands out for its sheer barbarity, a terrorism-driven assault carried out with calculated malice.

 

Astonishingly, even a year later, many in the West have yet to fully grasp the implications of this Iran-backed atrocity. October 7 marked the launch of Iran’s "Ring of Fire" strategy against Israel, which it sees as "the little Satan." In the immediate aftermath, Iran’s supporters in the Western media and think tanks downplayed Tehran’s involvement. They referenced U.S. intelligence reports suggesting that some Iranian leaders were unaware of Hamas' plans. They also pointed out the absence of clear, direct evidence linking Tehran to the command of the Hamas terrorists. But even if these claims were true, they don’t absolve Tehran of responsibility.

 

It is unrealistic to expect that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which operates under the direct command of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, would share sensitive information with anyone outside their tight inner circle. The IRGC’s Quds Force doesn’t operate like Western bureaucracies, and even Iran’s own foreign ministry or high-ranking officials might have been kept in the dark about the attack.

 

This theory gained more traction with Iran’s missile attack on Israel on October 1, 2024. Over 180 ballistic missiles were fired, a clear indicator that civilian officials were not involved in the decision-making process. As noted by journalist Thomas Friedman, citing Israeli sources, Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, wasn’t informed about the strike until just before it occurred. The fact that Iran’s president was left in the dark underscores the power and influence of the hardline military faction driving these events.

 

The failure of Israeli and Western intelligence agencies to detect an Iran-to-Hamas order before the October 7 attacks was a significant oversight. But this isn’t surprising, given that no Western intelligence service foresaw the assault itself. The absence of an “execute order” is just part of a larger intelligence failure.

 

This context is essential in understanding the broader failures of the Biden administration and European governments to address the real threat—Iran. This past year has not been a Palestinian war against Israel or an Arab war against Israel. It has been an Iranian war fought through proxies like Hamas, Hezbollah, and other militant groups, including Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Yemen’s Houthis. Looming behind these groups is Iran’s nuclear weapons program, which threatens not only Israel but also the oil-rich monarchies of the Arabian Peninsula.

 

Arab states are acutely aware of the danger posed by Tehran, and many share Israel’s strategic assessment, which was the foundation of the Abraham Accords that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. While the prospect of further diplomatic progress has been stalled by the current conflict, many believe Iran’s desire to derail broader recognition of Israel was a driving factor behind its decision to initiate the “Ring of Fire” strategy.

 

One year into the conflict, Israel has made significant strides, nearly eliminating Hamas' top leadership and military capabilities, while Hezbollah faces a similar fate. However, other Iranian-backed forces, like the Houthis, remain largely unscathed, posing a continuing threat to regional security. The blame for failing to neutralize these forces falls on the U.S. and the U.K., whose inaction has allowed Iranian proxies in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen to remain active and dangerous.

 

Israel’s primary focus remains Iran itself. Following an April missile-and-drone attack, Israel's response was limited, largely due to pressure from the Biden administration. Now, however, Israel faces the decision of whether to strike Iran’s nuclear program, its oil infrastructure, military facilities, or some combination of these targets. What Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government decide could have far-reaching consequences for the future of the region.

 

Whatever Israel’s next move, one thing is clear: the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East is through regime change in Iran. The Islamic Revolution of 1979 has been the driving force behind much of the instability and violence in the region, and as long as Tehran’s mullahs remain in power, the threat of war will persist. It is time for the Iranian people to take control of their destiny and bring an end to the regime that has held them and the region hostage for far too long.

 

Based on a report from Daily Telegraph 2024-10-10

 

 

 

[koolkarl]

Will never be peace.

[Neeranam]

Framing the conflict solely as an Iranian war against Israel oversimplifies the complexities at play. The plight of the Palestinian people and their struggle for self-determination must be acknowledged. The actions of groups like Hamas, while abhorrent, are often a response to the ongoing occupation and systemic oppression.

The notion that regime change in Iran will bring about peace ignores the realities on the ground. Lasting peace will require addressing the root causes of the conflict, including the human rights violations faced by Palestinians. Dialogue, mutual recognition, and a commitment to justice for all peoples in the region are essential for a sustainable resolution.

[retarius]

Just my opinion, I hope Iran kicks Israel's butt. 

[300sd]

4 minutes ago, retarius said:

Just my opinion, I hope Iran kicks Israel's butt. 

Spoken like a true anti-semite. Just my opinion!

[KhunLA]

It requires Israel to stop expanding and treat Palestinians as equals.

 

That's never going to happen ... IMHO

[Neeranam]

59 minutes ago, 300sd said:

Spoken like a true anti-semite. Just my opinion!

What makes you say that?

Do you hope Israel kicks Iran's butt, and does that make you an Islamophobe?

[Bkk Brian]

Iran the true axis of evil with a ruler who himself shouts death to America and predicts Israel will no longer exist by 2040. Encircled Israel with a ring of fire to destroy it with its proxy terrorists that it finances and arms. 

 

Iran a state sponsor of terrorism that additionally finances various terrorist and militant groups in Iraq, Syria, Bahrain, and elsewhere throughout the Middle East.

 

Israel defending itself from the Iranian terrorists and posters on here blaming Israel. Amazing.

 

Allowing a genocidal, unpredictable dictator to acquire nuclear weapons is truly madness. 

 

Let Israel do the world a favour and knock out its nuclear facilities.

 

 

[Social Media]

inflammatory unsubstantiated claims removed @Neeranam

[Neeranam]

1 hour ago, KhunLA said:

It requires Israel to stop expanding and treat Palestinians as equals.

 

That's never going to happen ... IMHO

Indeed, Netanyahu is totally opposed to a two state solution. 

There was was possible peace under Yitzhak Rabin, who was shot, which led to Benni taking power in the subsequent election.

He had been totally opposed to what Rabin was doing and criticized him for engaging in peace negotiations or concessions that he believed compromised Israel’s security.

He has taken a hardline stance against Iran, viewing it as an existential threat, and has been critical of any diplomatic approaches that seemed to lessen sanctions or allow Iran to maintain its nuclear program.

 

[Bkk Brian]

2 minutes ago, Neeranam said:

Indeed, Netanyahu is totally opposed to a two state solution. 

There was was possible peace under Yitzhak Rabin, who was shot, which led to Benni taking power in the subsequent election.

He had been totally opposed to what Rabin was doing and criticized him for engaging in peace negotiations or concessions that he believed compromised Israel’s security.

He has taken a hardline stance against Iran, viewing it as an existential threat, and has been critical of any diplomatic approaches that seemed to lessen sanctions or allow Iran to maintain its nuclear program.

 

Iran is totally opposed to Israel ever existing, why do you keep defending the terrorist's? 

[harryviking]

Iran is the head of the "Snake"! Cut it of and there will be no support for either Hamas, Houthis  or Hezbollah!! No more wars! Also, Iran is feeding Putin with drones used to kill Ukrainians! 

[mdr224]

6 minutes ago, harryviking said:

Iran is the head of the "Snake"! Cut it of and there will be no support for either Hamas, Houthis  or Hezbollah!! No more wars! Also, Iran is feeding Putin with drones used to kill Ukrainians! 

With trump as president they had no money for terrorism

[300sd]

14 minutes ago, Neeranam said:

What makes you say that?

Do you hope Israel kicks Iran's butt, and does that make you an Islamophobe?

I hope both sides run out of amo tomorrow and never have any again. That would include nuclear weapons. An Islamophobe? No I don't think so, but if not agreeing with sharia law makes me that then I'm in.

The Iranian regime in bent on the destruction of Israel. Israel has a right just like your country or any other country to exist. Antisemetics probably don't feel that way.  How about you?

[Nick Carter icp]

55 minutes ago, Neeranam said:

What makes you say that?

Do you hope Israel kicks Iran's butt, and does that make you an Islamophobe?

 

  No, its all the other anti Israel remarks that makes him an Anti-Semite , he needs to say a Jewish prayer every morning to prove that he isn't an Anti-Semite

[Nick Carter icp]

1 hour ago, KhunLA said:

It requires Israel to stop expanding and treat Palestinians as equals.

 

That's never going to happen ... IMHO

 

  It requires Jews to leave the Country and a Country called Palestine under sharia law to replace Israel , that would stop Iran attacking Israel 

[KhunLA]

5 minutes ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

  It requires Jews to leave the Country and a Country called Palestine under sharia law to replace Israel , that would stop Iran attacking Israel 

That would depend on what sect Muslims they are, Sunnis and Shiites 

[Nick Carter icp]

4 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

That would depend on what sect Muslims they are, Sunnis and Shiites 

 

   What was the joke, I didn't get it ?

[Sir Dude]

Really, it's a case of six of one and half a dozen of the other with this one. Problem is, you have two historically oppressed people living next door to each other that hate one another.

Hamas kicked off this latest cycle of violence to stop Israel and Saudi Arabia making a diplomatic deal at recognition etc. which Iran clearly didn't want. Iranians aren't Arabs, they're Persians and Shia, who have nothing but contempt for the Sunnis... hate each other almost (if not more) than they hate the infidel. Hamas etc. are clearly being used and at great cost to themselves, and few have come to their aid in the Muslim world. Actions have consequences, I'm afraid... what did you think Israel would do? Theocracy is a terrible form of national government.

Israel, on the other hand, acts beligerently and often disproportionately in its defense, and its government always has to appease the ultra-orthodox parties to stay in power and is clearly paranoid (with good reason). Sadly, unless Israel presents a very tough MO, then it will be overwhelmed by it's neighbours and they will be exterminated with extreme prejudice, so has the right to defend itself like all other countries.

There's also one other problem you have in the Middle East, and that is that all sides want the last word, hence once it starts, then it's a very difficult cycle to break unless it's some very complicated face-saving deal for both sides... remember when Clnton almost got the deal between Ehud Barrak and Yasser Arafat all that time ago, these two leaders couldn't even walk through the door first at the White House, as both thought it was a sign of weakness, and had to jointly walk through together... ridiculous! Palestine had its chance at the two state solution and Arafat ultimately walked away, Israel was ready to let it happen.

Not an easy problem to sort out, as whenever religion and historic animosity are involved... intransigence and wrath emerges, instead of tolerance and mutual understanding.

[Chomper Higgot]

Regime change in Iran.

 

 

It’s been tried before folks, what we have now is the outcome of that effort.

[Nick Carter icp]

3 minutes ago, Chomper Higgot said:

Regime change in Iran.

 

 

It’s been tried before folks, what we have now is the outcome of that effort.

 

   Have another change , Democratic Countries change their leadership every five years , Iran can do the same .

[KhunLA]

22 minutes ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

   What was the joke, I didn't get it ?

Then you don't understand the middle east.  Think Catholics & Protectants, but the middle east is still in the middle ages of progression.

 

Remember back on the Iraq civil war, and that will help explain why that happened. 

 

Geez, mind boggling I even have to explain that.  Although does explain a lot of the posts, and why the 'west' will never understand so many things ...   

[Nick Carter icp]

4 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

Then you don't understand the middle east.  Think Catholics & Protectants, but the middle east is still in the middle ages of progression.

 

Remember back on the Iraq civil war, and that will help explain why that happened. 

 

Geez, mind boggling I even have to explain that.  Although does explain a lot of the posts, and why the 'west' will never understand so many things ...   

 

  I was asking where the joke was .

I understood the serious aspect of the post and know the difference between Sunnis and Shiites, but where  was the joke ?

 

 

"That would depend on what sect Muslims they are, Sunnis and Shiites "

 

 

 

[KhunLA]

6 minutes ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

  I was asking where the joke was .

I understood the serious aspect of the post and know the difference between Sunnis and Shiites, but where  was the joke ?

 

 

"That would depend on what sect Muslims they are, Sunnis and Shiites "

If I have to explain the jokes .... 

 

Here's a hint ... "90 percent of Iranians practice Shi'ism. By contrast, most Arab states in the Middle East are predominantly Sunni."

 

And people post on AN about geopolitical subjects 

[Nick Carter icp]

Just now, KhunLA said:

If I have to explain the jokes .... 

 

Here's a hint ... "90 percent of Iranians practice Shi'ism. By contrast, most Arab states in the Middle East are predominantly Sunni."

 

   The Palestinian leadership want a Palestinian state under Sharia law and similar to Iran's political system , its in the Palestinian  charter .

   That's why Iran funds Hamas .

   Do you want to retract your joke ?

[Bkk Brian]

44 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

That would depend on what sect Muslims they are, Sunnis and Shiites 

They both practice some form of Shiria law so what?

 

Sharia acts as a code for living that all Muslims should adhere to

[Neeranam]

59 minutes ago, 300sd said:

I hope both sides run out of amo tomorrow and never have any again. That would include nuclear weapons. An Islamophobe? No I don't think so, but if not agreeing with sharia law makes me that then I'm in.

The Iranian regime in bent on the destruction of Israel. Israel has a right just like your country or any other country to exist. Antisemetics probably don't feel that way.  How about you?

I firmly believe in Israel's right to exist, I also support the notion of resolving borders based on the UN's longstanding proposals.

You do know the borders have significantly changed in Israel's favour, primarily through the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and the annexation of East Jerusalem, actions widely regarded as illegal under international law. Following the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel occupied territories that were previously controlled by Jordan and Egypt.

Supporting Israel's right to exist and advocating for a peaceful resolution does not necessitate an opposition to Islam or its laws.

My opinion is that Shariah law has nothing to do with me, other cultures can do what they want as long as they don't try to impose it on Thailand.

[billd766]

4 hours ago, koolkarl said:

Will never be peace.

As long as there is NO 2 state solution, nor as long as Israel continues to slaughter innocent Palestinian men, women, children and babies.

[Bkk Brian]

5 minutes ago, billd766 said:

As long as there is NO 2 state solution, nor as long as Israel continues to slaughter innocent Palestinian men, women, children and babies.

Better tell that to Hamas, they don't want a two state solution, while your at it, tell it to Iran who want to wipe out Israel. Have Hamas handed back the hostages yet including babies and children? The ones they've not murdered that is?

[TroubleandGrumpy]

1 hour ago, Sir Dude said:

Really, it's a case of six of one and half a dozen of the other with this one. Problem is, you have two historically oppressed people living next door to each other that hate one another.

Hamas kicked off this latest cycle of violence to stop Israel and Saudi Arabia making a diplomatic deal at recognition etc. which Iran clearly didn't want. Iranians aren't Arabs, they're Persians and Shia, who have nothing but contempt for the Sunnis... hate each other almost (if not more) than they hate the infidel. Hamas etc. are clearly being used and at great cost to themselves, and few have come to their aid in the Muslim world. Actions have consequences, I'm afraid... what did you think Israel would do? Theocracy is a terrible form of national government.

Israel, on the other hand, acts beligerently and often disproportionately in its defense, and its government always has to appease the ultra-orthodox parties to stay in power and is clearly paranoid (with good reason). Sadly, unless Israel presents a very tough MO, then it will be overwhelmed by it's neighbours and they will be exterminated with extreme prejudice, so has the right to defend itself like all other countries.

There's also one other problem you have in the Middle East, and that is that all sides want the last word, hence once it starts, then it's a very difficult cycle to break unless it's some very complicated face-saving deal for both sides... remember when Clnton almost got the deal between Ehud Barrak and Yasser Arafat all that time ago, these two leaders couldn't even walk through the door first at the White House, as both thought it was a sign of weakness, and had to jointly walk through together... ridiculous! Palestine had its chance at the two state solution and Arafat ultimately walked away, Israel was ready to let it happen.

Not an easy problem to sort out, as whenever religion and historic animosity are involved... intransigence and wrath emerges, instead of tolerance and mutual understanding.

Somewhat true - but mainly wrong - and clearly not aware of the real situation in the country of Israel. 20% of Israel's population is Muslim. They occupy positions of importance from Doctors to Politicians.  Israel is not the problem (mainly) - it is the radical extremist Muslims that refuse to allow Israel to exist in 'their lands'. 

 

You and many others do not realise that Islam is not the problem, it is the radical Islamists that are the problem. If you think about Christianity in the past, you can see that there is not just one form of Christianity. Some of them were extremely violent against non-believers and against other Christians too.  Islam is the same - there are many 'branches' of Islam, and within those branches they have some extremely radical members/groups (Gaza, Hezbolla, etc etc etc).  And it is not just in Israel - there are 'active' Muslim terrorists group all over the world.

List of designated terrorist groups - Wikipedia

Islam: The Politically Incorrect Truth (thereligionofpeace.com)

 

Sadly, IMO peace will only come after Israel/USA/NATO destroys those countries (like Iran) and groups (like Gaza and Hezbolla) that either commit and/or facilitate terrorist attacks on Israel. But that will mean the death of a lot of people - so the western powers have always 'encouraged' Israel to only defend - not to attack and wipe them out.  I am fearful that one day a nuclear weapon will explode in Israel - that will result in the annihilation of 10s of millions of Muslim people.