War in the Middle East: Caren Miosga Discusses Israel-Iran Conflict with Scholar Steinberg
Islamist Negotiations Speculated: Peace Dialogue may Commence within Two to Three Weeks
In the heart of the Middle East, Israel and Iran have clashed since last Friday, with fierce attacks from both sides in the opening skirmishes. During a talk show on the First channel on Sunday evening, discussions revolved around the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, with ARD's Israel correspondent highlighting a ballistic missile that struck southern Tel Aviv, causing substantial damage. Although Israel's air defense system proves effective in many areas, it's not foolproof, leaving Israelis questioning their trust in the defense shield.
Islamic scholar Guido Steinberg offers insights into the ongoing conflict, suggesting that Iran's missiles are likely aimed at military targets rather than residential buildings. However, he admits that Iran's missiles, while not as accurate as Israel's, are still a threat due to their destructive power, as some warheads carry up to 750 kilograms.
Iran's Dilemma and Disappointment
Steinberg states that Iran's limited capabilities have been demonstrated in their inability to deliver heavy attacks on Israel. He explains that Israel's success in reducing Iran's rocket program last year, coupled with the initial night's offensive, prevented larger-scale attacks, saving the Israeli air force from potential overload. From Iran's perspective, the results achieved so far by its air force are meager at best.
Shifting Alliances and Struggling Economy
CNN journalist Fred Pleitgen discusses Iran's weakened position, further explaining that Iran's affiliated organizations have faced setbacks and Syria, previously an Iranian ally, is no longer fully on its side following the fall of former leader Bashar Al-Assad. Iran has also suffered due to US sanctions, forcing it to rely on its rocket program for retaliation since it can no longer produce combat aircraft.
Thousands of Missiles in Iran's Arsenal
Though technically inferior to Israel, Iran remains a formidable threat, possessing thousands of ballistic missiles and various other options, such as cruise missiles and drones. While Pleitgen does not disclose the German origins of many components in Iran's missiles, German intelligence agencies have previously pointed this out.
Israel's Attacks on Iran's Nuclear Program: Assessing Success
It is challenging to determine the effectiveness of Israel's attacks on Iran's nuclear program at the moment, according to Steinberg. Many facilities are buried deep underground, making them difficult to target, and Israel may lack the necessary weapons and aircraft to reach these facilities. Steinberg additionally mentioned that the US had declined to support Israel in its offensive, despite deploying the necessary weapons systems in the region.
Peace Talks on the Horizon?
Despite the strain in relations between Israel and the US, Steinberg suggests that peace talks may be on the horizon, with negotiations potentially resuming due to the Trump administration's interest in engaging with Iran. Israel and the US have contrasting views on this matter, but Steinberg believes that the Israelis are unlikely to support new negotiations at the moment. Trump's aversion to war makes a deal more desirable, according to Pleitgen, who notes that the US is currently withdrawing support from its regional allies, leaving some hanging, as Steinberg puts it.
Peace talks between Israel and Iran could start within the next two to three weeks, according to Steinberg.
- Wars and Conflicts
- Israel
- Iran
- Caren Miosga
- Peace Talks
The Commission has been consulted on the draft resolution concerning the European Union's relations with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, as politics surrounding war-and-conflicts in the Middle East, notably between Israel and Iran, continue to dominate general news. In the midst of ongoing peace talks, Israel and Iran remain adversaries, with their relations playing out in a global political arena.
