The recent outbreak of conflict in the Middle East has underscored the critical role played by Iran in the region’s instability. Despite claims of non-involvement, Iran’s support for proxy forces has been instrumental in fueling the ongoing crisis. The events that transpired post-October 7 triggered intense discussions, most of which centered on Iran’s role in the crisis. Initially, Iranian regime officials vehemently defended the attack, hailing it as a significant victory. They later tried to distance themselves from the event, shrugging off any responsibility.
Therefore, to address the crisis comprehensively, most analysts agree that the key lies in addressing its root cause: Iran. However, there is difference on how way to approach the problem
The prevailing crisis in the Middle East can be largely traced back to the West’s policy of appeasement towards Iran. By ignoring the destructive actions of the Iranian regime, the West has unintentionally allowed Iran’s regime to spread terror in the region. In a new report, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) emphasizes, “The Iranian regime has been instrumental in financing, arming, and training proxy forces in various countries, resulting in the proliferation of violence.”
The proponents of the appeasement policy toward Iran’s regime warn that any firm stance toward Tehran’s provocative actions can lead to an all-out war with the regime.
But contrary to the narrative propagated by the Iranian regime and its lobbies, a direct war with the United States and the West would pose an existential threat to the regime.
Instead, the regime employs a calculated strategy of exporting internal crises and engaging in foreign warmongering to safeguard its grip on power. The NCRI highlights, “The regime’s interventions in other countries through proxies are solely aimed at maintaining its grip on power, concealing internal crises, and preempting uprisings that could threaten its rule.”
The policy of appeasement has not only failed to prevent war but has inadvertently enabled the Iranian regime to fuel conflicts in the region. Proxy forces backed by Iran, such as those in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon, have instigated sectarian wars and caused immense loss of life. The consequences of this misguided policy are evident today, with the Middle East embroiled in yet another significant conflict. The NCRI emphasizes, “Turning a blind eye to these interventions and appeasing the regime only serves to fuel its strategic objectives.”
The oppressive control exerted by the clerical regime is at the heart of the ongoing crisis. The regime’s survival depends on diverting attention from domestic discontent and avoiding direct confrontation with powerful adversaries. Instead, it strategically intervenes in the region through proxies to maintain control and perpetuate its rule.
A transformative shift is essential to bring lasting resolution to the crisis in the Middle East. Regime change in Iran is imperative, as the current regime’s existence relies on its ability to export crises and manipulate conflicts. By appeasing Iran’s regime, the international community inadvertently supports its destabilizing actions and perpetuates the cycle of violence. The NCRI warns, “The intricate web of crisis creation and warmongering in the region is intrinsically tied to the regime’s survival instincts.” Recognizing and addressing the root cause of the crisis is crucial for promoting stability and accountability in the region.
