Middle East Conflict: Israel’s Ambassador to Barbados Calls for Action Against Iran
Israel’s Ambassador to Barbados, Itai Bardov, has expressed the need for the government of Barbados to take a more active role in supporting Israel’s war against Hamas. In an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY, Ambassador Bardov emphasized that pressure on Israel will not lead to a cessation of hostilities and restoration of normalcy, but rather pressure on Iran and its proxies must be the focus.
Criticisms of Barbados’ Position
Bardov criticized Barbados’ stance on Israel’s right to self-defense, stating that it is contradictory to condemn Hamas while also criticizing Israel’s actions. "You can’t after that say ‘but…’" he said. "Israel has a right to defend itself until it actually executes that right, and then you go against it."
The Conflict
The conflict began on October 7, 2021, when Hamas attacked Israeli civilians in border districts, killing 1,200 people. In retaliation, Israel has bombed refugee camps, hospitals, and schools in Gaza, killing 43,000 Palestinians, half of whom were women and children. The United Nations has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, but the violence continues to worsen, posing a risk of a regional war in the Middle East.
Pressure on Iran and Proxies
Bardov emphasized that pressure on Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, is necessary to end the conflict. "If you really, really feel that you want to bring an end to these hostilities and restore peace, pressuring Israel will not be the right path," he said. "You have to pressure Iran, you have to pressure Iran’s proxies to stop their attacks and their hostilities, and not go the populous way."
Call for Action
Bardov urged Barbados and other CARICOM nations to shift their focus from pressure on Israel to pressure on Iran and its proxies. "You have to pressure Iran, you have to pressure Iran’s proxies to stop their attacks and their hostilities, and not go the populous way." He also expressed his concern about the ongoing conflict and the kidnapping of Israeli citizens, calling for everyone to work together to stop the violence and bring back peace.
About the Author
Itai Bardov is a non-resident ambassador to Barbados. He has an extensive background in diplomacy, having served in the Israeli military reserve forces, including the artillery corps and Israeli border police.
Conclusion
The situation in the Middle East is complex and requires a nuanced approach. As pressure continues to mount, it is essential to examine the roots of the conflict and the steps needed to resolve it. Israel’s Ambassador to Barbados, Itai Bardov, believes that pressure on Iran and its proxies is the key to ending the conflict and restoring peace in the region.
FAQs
- What is the current situation in the Middle East?
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people, including civilians, and the kidnapping of Israeli citizens. - What is Israel’s stance on the conflict?
Israel claims that it is acting in self-defense, but its actions have resulted in significant civilian casualties. - What is Iran’s role in the conflict?
Iran has been accused of supporting Hamas and other terrorist organizations, which has led to the escalation of the conflict. - What is the position of Barbados and other CARICOM nations?
Barbados has recognized Palestine, but its position on Israel’s right to self-defense is unclear. Other CARICOM nations have also expressed support for Palestine, but there has been no unified stance on the conflict.