As I was working through this course, Israel launched an attack on Iran in response to the Iranian missile attack on Israel on October 1st. It was fascinating to follow the coverage with what I had just learned on asymmetrical and conventional vs unconventional warfare. One news commentator mentioned that this puts Iran in a tough spot; if they retaliate further, they risk a greater Israeli response, and they don’t want to have to face a situation where they are militarily outmatched. So the themes of going to war for honor, interest, or fear also emerged: all three of these considerations factor into Iran’s (and Israel’s) future moves. Overall, it’s overwhelming to think of just how many conflicts are (or have) been going on in the Near East at any one time, and all the ways they are deeply interconnected and involve so many players beyond just the primary participants and major allies. It’s tempting to think that it’s hopeless to ever find the many solutions needed to create peace in the region – thankfully, our Christian worldview means that there is always hope and that Christ will bring peace, when He so chooses.
