The Escalating Conflict: A Call for Accountability and Peace in the Middle East

In the wake of escalating violence in Gaza and the spillover of conflict into Lebanon, a prominent American academic has raised alarm bells regarding the implications of these developments for U.S. foreign policy. Jeff Cohen, a former professor at Ithaca College and an expert in Israeli politics, believes that the current situation is not merely a regional crisis but a calculated effort to draw the United States into a direct confrontation with Iran.

The Underlying Intentions

During a recent episode of “The Ray Hanania Radio Show,” Cohen articulated his concerns about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s long-standing strategy to frame Iran as the principal adversary in the region. He suggested that had Hamas not launched its attack on Israel on October 7, Netanyahu would have found another justification to implicate Iran, thereby seeking to involve the U.S. in a broader conflict. Cohen emphasized that the one-sided military support provided by the U.S. to Israel empowers right-wing factions within Israel, perpetuating a cycle of violence that disproportionately affects Palestinian civilians.

U.S. Military Support for Israel

The United States has historically been Israel’s primary military ally, with nearly $23 billion allocated in support of its military operations against Gaza and Iranian-backed groups in the region. According to a report by Brown University’s Watson Institute, total U.S. economic and military aid to Israel since its establishment in 1946 amounts to approximately $310 billion when adjusted for inflation. Cohen argues that this unwavering support, regardless of Israel’s actions, undermines the prospects for peace and justice in the region.

The Human Cost of Conflict

The human toll of the ongoing violence is staggering. Following the October 7 attack, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of around 250 hostages, the retaliatory measures by Israel have led to the deaths of nearly 42,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. The humanitarian crisis has reached unprecedented levels, with a significant portion of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents displaced due to relentless Israeli airstrikes.

Cohen contends that Netanyahu’s narrative, which often portrays Iran as the root cause of regional instability, is misleading. He warns that the U.S. is on the brink of being dragged into a war with Iran, a scenario that could have dire consequences for both American and Iranian lives.

Media Bias and the Marginalization of Palestinian Voices

Cohen, who has extensive experience in journalism and media, criticized the mainstream American media for its biased coverage of the conflict. He argues that the media often amplifies Israeli suffering while marginalizing Palestinian narratives. “All lives matter,” he insists, emphasizing that Palestinian lives are just as valuable as Israeli lives. This imbalance in media representation contributes to a skewed understanding of the conflict and perpetuates U.S. support for Israel.

Historical Context of Violence

Cohen also highlights the historical context of violence in the region, noting that terrorism is not solely the domain of groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. He points out that extremist groups existed prior to the establishment of the State of Israel, engaging in acts of violence against civilians. Understanding this history is crucial for addressing the root causes of the conflict and moving toward a peaceful resolution.

The Role of Iran and Regional Militias

The conflict has also seen the involvement of Iran-backed militias, including Hezbollah, which has launched rocket attacks from Lebanon in solidarity with Palestinian groups. The Houthis in Yemen have similarly targeted Israeli interests, further complicating the regional landscape. Cohen warns that these alliances pose a significant threat to stability and peace in the Middle East.

The Impact on Healthcare and Humanitarian Efforts

The humanitarian crisis extends beyond immediate violence; it encompasses the systematic targeting of medical professionals and healthcare facilities. Dr. Zaher Sahloul, founder of the non-profit MedGlobal, highlighted the unprecedented levels of violence against healthcare workers in Gaza and Lebanon. Over 600 medical professionals have been killed in Gaza, and hospitals have been bombed, severely crippling the healthcare system.

Sahloul argues that these attacks are not collateral damage but part of a deliberate strategy to displace populations and deny them essential healthcare services. The long-term consequences of losing medical professionals and infrastructure will set back healthcare in the region for generations.

The Need for Accountability

Both Cohen and Sahloul emphasize the urgent need for accountability regarding violations of international humanitarian law. The lack of consequences for such actions fosters a culture of impunity, allowing violence to persist unchecked. They call for a reevaluation of U.S. military support for Israel and a commitment to pursuing a just and equitable solution for both Palestinians and Israelis.

Conclusion: A Path Forward

As the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon continues to escalate, the voices of those advocating for peace and justice must be amplified. The U.S. has a critical role to play in fostering dialogue and supporting initiatives that prioritize human rights and equality for all parties involved. Only through a commitment to understanding the complexities of the conflict and addressing its root causes can a lasting resolution be achieved. The time for accountability and action is now, before the situation spirals further out of control.