THE Israel-Iran conflict was more than a regional clash; it reshaped the balance of power, destabilized the entire region and had global repercussions.

Conflicting narratives and manipulated perceptions eroded the credibility of key players and signaled dangerous consequences ahead. The US-brokered ceasefire may be holding for now, but the smoke has not cleared on what really went down. Who won? Who lost? That is still an open debate. All sides: Israel, Iran and the US claim victory, each insisting the pause happened on their terms. But behind the headlines lies a far mistier reality. It is still unclear whether Israel achieved its goals, Iran safeguarded its key interests or the truce signals just a pause before a more serious storm.

The gravity of the situation is evident, as this latest operation marked the first time Israel and the US jointly targeted Iranian nuclear sites, demonstrating the capability to strike much deeper within the region. Assassinating key regime figures including nuclear scientists, shattered decades of managed hostility concept and marked an evolution to autonomous killing.

Israel, with US support, will likely keep pushing Iran to stop its nuclear program. Additionally, the US foreign policy seems to have transformed into an economic warfare machine, one that shapes every international crisis through the distorting lens of financial punishment. Trade wars have begun in the mind.

The strikes against Iran have raised concerns in other neighbouring countries, particularly in the MENA region.........

© Pakistan Observer