Nuclear intentions cause increasing stress in Middle East
February 16, 2012 11:27 am | Filed Under: General
JAN. 21, 2012, Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Michael Oren, came to speak and answer questions at Cincinnati’s Jewish Community Center. About 700 people listened to Oren speak openly about the challenges facing Israel and many of Israel’s recent accomplishments. Although relations between Israel and Iran are quickly deteriorating, it was comforting to attend the event in light of this crisis. (Image Credit: Lila Englander)

Over the past month, tensions between Israel and Iran have intensified. The conflict over Iran’s nuclear ambitions has led to Israel’s dispute over whether to attempt an offensive assault on Iran.

“Watching the events in the Middle East unfold is truly terrifying. More times than not Israel makes the front page of most newspapers,” said Itay Goitman, 9.

National Public Radio (NPR) reports on Feb. 14, 2012 that Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said he did not think Israel had come to a decision on the attack. However, Panetta previously told the Washington Post that an Israeli strike in the coming spring months is probable.

In the past month, five Iranian nuclear scientists have been assassinated. Iran accused Israel of these deaths and spoke of revenge. Israel has also used cyber warfare to try to prolong Iran’s nuclear program.

According to the New York Times on Feb.14, 2012, Israel blamed Iran for car bombs found in Israeli Embassy cars, although Iran denied these claims.

"Iran is behind these attacks and it is the largest terror exporter in the world,” said Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister, according to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
Israel’s closest friend, the U.S., along with other international powers, continues its strong sanctions against Iran.

In Jan., Israeli ambassador Michael Oren, depicted above, visited Cincinnati, partly to address the growing concern over the Israel/Iran conflict.

“This was another event to demonstrate and showcase the solidarity and commitment of the Cincinnati Jewish community. Ambassador Oren's words were honest, powerful and informative,” said Ron Solomon, one of the 700 audience members in attendance on Jan. 21, 2012.

As conditions in Israel, the Middle East’s only Democracy, escalates, it is important for SHS students to stay informed. An Iran with nuclear weapons has the capability to cause an overwhelming amount of damage.

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