Israel and the Middle East: Two Years Since October 7
Today marks two years since the coordinated attack on October 7, which marked a significant escalation in violence across the Middle East. Groups such as Hamas (Gaza), Hezbollah (Lebanon), and Iran-backed forces in Yemen carried out synchronized operations, demonstrating an implicit, long-term strategic coordination.
Coordination and Iran’s Interests
These armed groups are funded, trained, or supplied by Iran, which seeks to weaken Israel and expand its regional influence. Although no formal agreements exist, the alignment of objectives reveals an implicit strategy: coordinated attacks, sustained pressure on Israel, and disruption of regional diplomacy—including stalled negotiations with Saudi Arabia, which were suspended due to rising tensions.
Strategic and Economic Gains
Iran and Russia have both benefited from the escalation:
Russia: Profited from the global rise in oil and gas prices, strengthening its ability to finance the war in Ukraine and exert economic pressure on Europe—the main supporter of Kyiv.
Iran: Strengthened its regional power and gained economically as an energy producer and arms supplier.
China and India: Continued purchasing oil and gas at higher global prices but secured preferential terms from Russia and Iran, deepening strategic partnerships.
The timing of the attack—on the anniversary of Putin’s birthday—illustrates how global strategic interests can converge without formal agreements, producing long-term economic and political effects.
Diplomatic Consequences
The escalation halted regional negotiations, such as the Israel-Saudi Arabia agreement, and increased the risk of Israel’s broader conflict with Arab populations, reinforcing Iran’s position and Russian influence in the region.
Ethical Reflection
Supporting groups like Hamas means aligning with aggression, death, and threats to freedom and democracy. Two years on, the conflict remains a stark reminder that organized violence against civilians and states is always on the side of destruction, never of peaceful coexistence or justice.
Conclusion:
Nearly two years after the attack, the Middle East remains a theater of strategic tensions blending military, economic, and diplomatic interests. The convergence of Iran, Russia, and their regional allies underscores the region’s geopolitical complexity, while the world bears witness to the human, ethical, and political consequences of actions that continue to shape the regional and global balance.