An opinion piece by Middle East Eye editor-in-chief David Hearst warns that the Middle East is nearing a broader regional war as U.S. and Israeli military activity around Iran intensifies and regional alliances shift.

Hearst cites recent deployments of U.S. aircraft carriers, bombers and air-defense systems near Iran, alongside Israeli media reports suggesting preparations for a possible strike. He argues that Israel and the United States are increasingly aligned on targeting Iran’s leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as domestic unrest and economic pressure grow inside the country.

Hearst contends that years of U.S. sanctions have deepened Iran’s economic crisis and fueled protests, while accusing Israeli and Western intelligence agencies of attempting to exploit unrest to destabilize the government. He also argues that Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, are reassessing their positions as fears grow that Israel seeks regional military dominance through state fragmentation.

According to Hearst, a renewed attack on Iran could trigger widespread regional instability, refugee flows and conflict extending far beyond Iran’s borders.

Read more at Middle East Eye.