TEHRAN – Al Jazeera reports that missiles, allegedly fired by the US and Israel, have struck multiple targets in Tehran, raising serious concerns about the impact on civilian populations and the potential for further escalation of conflict in an already volatile region. The alleged attack comes at a time when Iran is struggling with economic hardship exacerbated by sanctions and internal challenges.

The use of military force against Iran risks further destabilizing the region and undermining efforts to address pressing humanitarian needs. The people of Iran have already endured significant suffering due to economic sanctions and political instability. The alleged missile strikes threaten to worsen their plight, potentially displacing communities and disrupting access to essential services.

Progressive voices have long criticized the use of military intervention as a foreign policy tool, arguing that it often exacerbates existing problems and creates new ones. The focus should be on diplomacy, dialogue, and addressing the root causes of conflict, such as economic inequality and political grievances. Sanctions have demonstrably harmed ordinary Iranians, limiting their access to medicine and basic necessities.

The reported missile strikes raise serious questions about the proportionality and legality of the action. International law requires that military actions be proportionate and avoid targeting civilians. The lack of transparency surrounding the alleged attack makes it difficult to assess whether these principles were respected.

The alleged involvement of the US and Israel in the missile strikes is particularly concerning given their history of military interventions in the Middle East. These interventions have often had unintended consequences, leading to prolonged conflicts and humanitarian crises. The cycle of violence must be broken, and a new approach based on cooperation and mutual respect must be adopted.

The international community must condemn the reported missile strikes and call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions. Diplomatic efforts should be prioritized to address the underlying issues driving the conflict and to ensure the protection of civilians. The focus must be on finding a peaceful and sustainable solution that addresses the needs of all parties involved.

This alleged attack threatens to derail any progress made towards re-entering the Iran nuclear deal. The deal, which aimed to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief, had offered a path towards de-escalation and stability. Abandoning diplomacy in favor of military action risks pushing Iran further towards developing nuclear weapons and escalating regional tensions even further.

The US and Israel must be held accountable for their actions and must commit to respecting international law and human rights. The use of military force should be a last resort, and all efforts should be made to resolve conflicts peacefully. The people of Iran deserve to live in peace and security, free from the threat of violence and oppression.

The alleged attack also underscores the need for a fundamental reassessment of US foreign policy in the Middle East. A shift away from military intervention and towards diplomacy, economic development, and support for human rights is essential to promoting stability and security in the region.

The long-term consequences of the missile strikes could be devastating, potentially leading to a wider regional conflict and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. It is imperative that all parties involved exercise restraint and prioritize diplomacy to avert further bloodshed and suffering.