As tensions escalate between Iran and Israel, the global community once again finds itself at a crossroads. Recent developments — including drone strikes near Israeli territory, retaliatory air raids, and heightened rhetoric from Tehran — have raised fears of a broader regional war. At the heart of it all stands Israel, a democratic nation under constant existential threat from hostile neighbors and extremist regimes.

Israel’s current stance is not one of aggression, but of survival. While Iran continues to back militias and armed groups across Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza — including Hamas and Hezbollah — Israel remains committed to safeguarding its citizens against repeated violations of its sovereignty. With nuclear ambiguity still surrounding Iran's weapons program, the threat is no longer theoretical — it is real, direct, and immediate.

Why the World Must Support Israel

At a time when democratic values are under siege globally, supporting Israel is not just about geopolitics — it's about choosing democracy over dictatorship, open society over oppression. Israel, despite its faults, upholds fundamental freedoms: press, religion, speech, and rights of minorities. In stark contrast, Iran’s regime continues to crack down on dissent, execute political prisoners, and fuel unrest across borders.

Support for Israel means standing against terrorism, against the targeting of civilians, and against regimes that fund proxy wars under religious and ideological pretexts. It means acknowledging Israel’s right to exist — safely, peacefully, and without the constant threat of annihilation.

Nepal’s Measured Response

In a rare but important move, the Government of Nepal issued a press statement on June 13, expressing “deep concern” over the evolving situation between Iran and Israel. Nepal called for both sides to avoid escalation and adopt diplomatic dialogue to ensure regional stability. Nepal’s missions in Doha and Tel Aviv have also been advised to remain in contact with Nepali communities residing in the two countries.

While neutral in tone, Nepal’s statement is a reminder that even smaller nations understand the gravity of the situation. A peaceful Middle East is in everyone’s interest — but peace must not come at the cost of ignoring the right of a sovereign nation to defend itself.

As protests flare globally — including controversial pro-Palestinian rallies planned in Kathmandu — it’s crucial that Nepal remains firm in rejecting imported radicalism and supports international norms rooted in peace, dialogue, and the defense of democratic allies like Israel.

In moments like these, neutrality must not mean silence in the face of terror. It must mean standing with truth, with peace — and with those who uphold it.

 

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