On Oct. 15, Iran issued a stinging public ultimatum to its arch-enemy Israel: Halt your onslaught on Gaza or we’ll be forced to take action, its foreign minister warned. Only hours later, the country’s U.N. mission softened the hawkish tone, assuring the world that its armed forces wouldn’t intervene in the conflict unless Israel attacked Iranian interests or citizens. The warning from Iran highlights its dilemma of how to remain uninvolved in the war between Israel and Hamas. Iran’s foreign minister expressed concern over the civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza caused by Israel’s attacks. However, Iran has a history of supporting Hamas and providing military aid. The conflicting statements from Iran reflect its desire to maintain its alliance with Hamas while avoiding a direct confrontation with Israel. Iran’s warning to Israel serves as a reminder of the volatile situation in the Middle East and the potential for further escalation of the conflict.
