Historical Amnesia vs. Collective Memory
The current war between the US and Iran has opened a pandora’s box concerning the future of Iran. Given the history of Iran and its neighbors, it is highly unlikely that this conflict yields a net positive result. It is also true that we won’t know the full impact of this war, for good or for bad, for years to come. The war has already resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has ruled the country since 1987. However, if this war is going to bear fruit, at some level, Trump’s historical amnesia will have to overcome Iranians’ collective memory.
Syria, the Druze, and Israel
Israel’s continued involvement in Syria in my opinion is more likely to bring more danger to the Druze than it is to bring stability to the region. Continued Israeli strikes against the government will harden anti-Druze sentiment in both Syria and the greater region. It also risks further dividing the Syrian community and possibly sparking intra-communal violence. Ultimately, I’m of the opinion that a stable Syria is in Israel’s long-term interests, unfortunately Israel doesn’t see it that way.
Is the Nativity a Palestinian Story?
There are several parallels between the plight of Palestinians today and the plight of first century Jews living under Roman-rule which has prompted some Palestinians to use the symbols of the Nativity to critique Israel’s occupation and treatment of Palestinians.
Searching for an Iran that never was
There is a prevailing view among many that the status of women in the Iran has regressed since the Islamic Revolution and while there is a portion of truth in this view, the historical reality is more complex.