"Iran's Influence in the Middle East: Shaping Conflict and Threatening Israel"

The Israel-Hamas conflict has disrupted U.S. efforts to pivot away from the Middle East, leading to increased American engagement in the region. Iran, a primary patron of Hamas, has exploited the chaos to advance its own interests, including escalating the war, expanding its influence, and challenging U.S. hegemony. The conflict has also complicated U.S. efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. To counter Iran's ambitions, the Biden administration must work with regional allies to erode Hamas's capabilities, ensure humanitarian aid reaches Palestinian civilians, and outline a path to peace for Israelis and Palestinians.