Write: Tamar Ziv
When German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared on June 17 that “Israel is doing the dirty work for all of us […] This regime of the Mullahs has brought death and destruction upon the world,” he articulated a fundamental truth that can no longer be ignored. His admission that Iran’s theocratic regime “has brought death and destruction upon the world” reflects not regional bias but strategic clarity about the threats facing the free world.
The conflict in the Middle East is not just a distant regional dispute. Iran’s radical Islamist regime openly rejects democratic principles, religious tolerance, and individual freedoms. The Islamic Republic of Iran has systematically built a network of terrorist proxies, combined with intercontinental ballistic missiles that can strike European cities. From Hezbollah’s sophisticated arsenal to Hamas’s tunnel networks, from Houthi naval attacks to partially dormant terrorist cells on all continents — this represents a coordinated challenge to global peace. Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles is not a defensive measure, but a means of intimidation designed to subjugate European governments. This regime sees Europe as a legitimate target for future subjugation, turning this into an existential challenge that goes beyond the borders of the Middle East.
History teaches us clear lessons about confronting ideologically driven aggressors. True disarmament and lasting peace are rarely achieved through accommodation with growing threats. On the contrary, determined resistance to aggression is often the necessary precondition for stability. Europe learned this lesson the hard way in the 1930s, and similar dynamics are present today in the face of Iran’s expansionist ideology.
Israel’s efforts, along with those of the United States, have significantly disrupted Iran’s progress toward its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. This represents a critical contribution to global security that serves the entire free world. Iran’s deterrence creates space for the Western world to strengthen its defenses and reassess its strategic priorities.
The way forward requires the courage to clearly name the enemy. Radical Islamist movements, led by the theocratic regime in Iran, pose a global threat that requires the same determination that past generations showed against fascist and communist totalitarianism. This is not about religious prejudice, but about confronting a specific political ideology that aims to destroy democratic societies.
A stable Middle East, capable of moving from confrontation to cooperation, is not simply a regional aspiration, but a strategic imperative for the free world. Supporting efforts to prevent Iran from nuclearizing, to limit its missile program, and to weaken proxy networks aligns directly with European security interests, economic stability, and fundamental values.
The war is far from over. Iran will seek to rebuild its capabilities and continue its destabilizing activities. Even weakened groups like Hamas continue to advance their destructive agendas over the well-being of the Palestinian people, holding hostages and keeping Gaza a battlefield. The suffering of both Gazans and Israelis could end immediately if Hamas were to release the hostages, surrender its weapons, and stop the war it started.
For Europe, maintaining its moral compass means distinguishing between true partners and common enemies. Dialogue and cooperation remain essential with democratic allies like Israel, while strong and consistent positions must be maintained against Islamist jihadist actors who threaten peace. Going forward, Europe must embrace policies that empower friends and strategically confront adversaries. This approach represents the most promising path to lasting peace and security in a region vital to its future.
edition
t7 live
