IRAN’S recent confrontation with Israel has shattered a long-standing illusion within a certain section of the Islamic world about some perceived behind-the-scene understanding between the two. The false narrative now lies in its grave, and the sympathy of many has shifted towards Iran.

With its forceful reply to Israeli attacks, Iran has in many ways posed a critical question to Muslim masses and Islamic governments around the world that is not too different from what they faced in Karbala many centuries ago.

For instance, there are some who have been questioning the logic of confronting a superior force, just as there were when Imam Hussain led his caravan towards Karbala. In the modern world, they have been questioning Iran’s resistance, wondering why at all Iran has consistently provoked technologically advanced adversaries like Israel and the United States, and why it could not sign a deal in order to live and fight another day.

Then, in Karbala, there were silent observers who witnessed the atrocities, but chose silence. Today, there are countries and institutions that have adopted the same approach, watching the tragedy unfold, but unwilling to act. There was no dearth of those who, out of fear or greed, chose to side with the oppressor in Karbala. Today, again, there are countries that have facilitated US and Israeli operations, offering airbases and intelligence support against Iran. This approach is driven both by billion-dollar deals and the fear of war reaching their borders.

And, finally, there were the loyalists who continued despite being fully aware that the odds were against them. With little to no resources, power or even a guarantee of survival, they supported the cause because it was just. They simply believed that fighting for the right cause was more important than survival. It is entirely possible that Iran may lose the conflict in the long run. It is even possible that its supreme leader may be martyred. But even in defeat, this battle has the potential to be a symbolic Karbala, planting the seeds of a global awakening among the Muslims.

Zain Ali Mangi
Sukkur

Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2025