As tensions rise between Iran and Israel, many people around the world, especially in Africa, form opinions based on religious identity rather than facts. To better understand the ongoing conflict, it is important to look beyond headlines and emotional sentiments. Here are some essential points Africans should consider before taking sides in the Iran-Israel conflict.
First, Iran is not an Arab country. While it is located in the Middle East, Iran’s population is predominantly Persian, not Arab. Culturally, linguistically, and historically, Persians are different from Arabs. The official language in Iran is Persian (Farsi), and only a small portion of the population speaks Arabic, mostly for religious purposes or in border areas.
Israel, on the other hand, is not a Christian country. While many Christians around the world support Israel due to its mention in the Bible, Israel’s population is primarily Jewish, and the national religion is Judaism, not Christianity. The Jewish people follow the teachings of the Torah and have a separate religious identity from Christians.
Interestingly, Iran has a larger Christian population than Israel, despite being an Islamic republic. While both Christianity and Islam are minority religions in Israel, Muslims outnumber Christians. Many people are surprised to learn that there are more Arabs in Israel than there are Christians, even though Israel is often associated with Western or Christian support.
Another key fact is that preaching Christianity is easier in countries like the United Kingdom than in Israel. While Israel is a democracy, Christian evangelism faces restrictions, especially when it targets Jewish citizens for conversion. In contrast, the UK has far more freedom for religious expression and evangelism.
Religiously, Iran is the leading Shia Muslim country in the world, while countries like Saudi Arabia represent the Sunni branch of Islam. These two branches have deep theological and political differences, and Iran’s foreign policies often reflect Shia ideology, putting it at odds not only with Israel but also with many Sunni-led nations.
Given these facts, it’s crucial to examine our reasons for supporting either side. If your support for Israel is only because it’s in the Bible, or you believe it represents Christianity, you’re mistaken. Similarly, if you support Iran simply because it’s Muslim or you think it’s an Arab country, that support is not based on truth.
True support should be based on justice, fairness, and respect for human life, not just religious emotions. Blind support based on religious identity, without understanding the historical, political, and cultural complexities, leads to biased opinions that ignore human suffering and global ethics.
In conclusion, Africans — like all people — should strive to be informed and objective. We must stand for truth, peace, and human dignity, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Only by doing so can we contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
