In a move that has captivated the world’s attention, Iran has openly and unequivocally expressed its support for the “Al-Aqsa Flood” operation carried out by Hamas against Israel. This endorsement comes from none other than a senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Yahya Rahim Safavi, a senior general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, voiced this support during a meeting held in Tehran in support of Palestinian children.
Government Stance: A “Proud Operation”
Safavi’s words were not minced; he called the operation a “proud” act. “We support the proud operation of Al-Aqsa Flood,” he said, as quoted by the ISNA news agency. This is a significant statement, considering that it comes from a high-ranking official in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a powerful faction within Iran’s complex political landscape. The operation has resulted in at least 22 deaths in Israel, according to the latest reports from Israeli medics. This stance by Iran adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in the Middle East.
Public Sentiment: A Mirror of Government Rhetoric
While the government’s stance is clear, the public sentiment in Iran seems to mirror this position. Social media platforms are abuzz with hashtags and posts supporting the Palestinian cause and lauding the “Al-Aqsa Flood” operation. Public gatherings, although not officially reported, have been organized to celebrate what many Iranians see as a victory for the Palestinian resistance against Israel. The atmosphere is charged, and the operation has rekindled a sense of unity among various factions within Iran that usually find themselves at odds over domestic issues.
Iran’s endorsement of the operation raises several questions about its broader geopolitical objectives. The country has long been a supporter of Palestinian causes, and this recent development seems to align with its ongoing efforts to counter Israeli influence in the region. However, this public support puts Iran at odds with countries that have condemned the operation, potentially isolating it further on the international stage.
The endorsement also has implications for Iran’s diplomatic relations. Countries that have condemned the attack might view Iran’s stance as a provocation, potentially affecting ongoing negotiations on various fronts, including the nuclear deal. Iran’s relations with its Arab neighbors, some of whom have recently normalized relations with Israel, could also be strained.
