Carl Roose / AFSC
On April 13, Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel. The attack came in retaliation for Israel’s killing of Iranian military officials when they bombed the Iranian embassy in Syria earlier this month. These actions have significantly increased fears of a regional war, one that could involve many international actors, including the United States. Such an escalation would threaten the safety and lives of people in the region and around the globe.
At the same time, U.S. officials have said that a famine is underway in northern Gaza as a result of Israel’s ongoing assault there. A broadening conflict will worsen an already dire situation.
These interconnected situations show the need for de-escalation and diplomacy, not further killing. The U.S. and other members of the international community must do everything within their power to calm tensions in the region — including refusing to supply military weapons and support to any party in the conflict. Further escalation will only result in destruction and loss of life. De-escalation and diplomacy — along with humanitarian aid for those in Gaza — is the only pathway towards peace.