The conflict in the Middle East between the United States, Israel and Iran, which began on February 28, is now into its second month. Despite the ongoing fighting, no country has emerged as a clear winner or backed off from the war. While the US and Israel, who led the joint strikes against Iran, claimed to have destroyed Tehran’s military capabilities, it appears far from the truth.
US President Donald Trump has failed to justify the attack on Iran by stating different reasons at each step. On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears clear with his goals from day one, which is "to ensure” Israel’s “existence and future.” He has always regarded Iran as the most dangerous enemy of Israel.
What Does Netanyahu Want?
While Trump has indicated that the war may “end sooner” than expected without fulfilling prior stated goals, Netanyahu has vowed to continue fighting to realise its goals. Israel aims to permanently degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities, destroy missile infrastructure, and dismantle its "Axis of Resistance" network, including Hezbollah and Hamas, to create a secure buffer zone in the region. Many of these goals seem impossible to achieve in the current situation as despite suffering a huge setback with collapsing leadership, Iran has managed to retaliate and not “surrender” as demanded by the US.
Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime choke point, affecting trade flow and energy supplies. According to reports, the oil crisis has severely intensified due to the closure of the strait disrupting over 80 per cent of oil/LNG supplies to Asia, driving prices over USD 100/ barrel.
Netanyahu Calls Out Iran's 'Murderous Ambitions'
Netanyahu on Wednesday, emphasised that "sooner or later" the Iranian administration will collapse. He stated that Israel is simultaneously forging "new alliances with important countries in the region" to counter the collective threat posed by Iran. He also hailed “enormous accomplishments” in the campaign against Tehran, alleging that the country sought to achieve its "murderous ambitions" through nuclear development, ballistic missile programmes, and the sponsorship of regional terror proxies.
Many claim that Netanyahu also wants to boost his political standing through this war as Israel is set to hold elections this year. His reputation has suffered a setback after Hamas’ 2023 attacks on Israel, pushing back his aim to be remembered as “protector of Israel.” Moreover, he has reaffirmed his commitment to continuing military operations against Iran and its "Axis of Evil.”