According to Hamas and Iranian officials, Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, has rejected Hamas' request for direct involvement in their conflict with Israel. Khamenei stated that Iran would only engage if directly attacked by Israel or the US. Reportedly, Khamenei's decision stems from Hamas' failure to provide any advance warning of their attacks at the conflict's outset. However, Khamenei has still pledged to support Hamas through means other than direct military involvement.
Khamenei's decision likely stems from his inherent and fundamental interest in self-preservation. Hamas' lack of warning left him and his "axis of resistance" allies unprepared for a large-scale military conflict against a much stronger Israel. As a result, Khamenei knows that getting directly involved in a war against Israel would likely spell the complete destruction of his regime.
Iran's refusal to become directly involved in the conflict marks one positive event this catastrophic war. It means that the conflict is less likely to spread and less civilians will suffer from the war. However, coming from a regime that has been known to be dishonest, it should not be taken as a guarantee. The international community should still monitor the conflict and take measures minimalize its damage.
By: Frank Kwak
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