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An Old Testament verse (Leviticus 19:14) seems remarkably relevant today: “Do not place a stumbling block in front of the blind.”

Following an Iranian attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States is conducting its third wave of attacks within a week. Tehran has declared the strait closed and is again attacking targets in several Gulf states.

The West is increasingly losing its spiritual roots, while Iran is deliberately using identity and faith as a political force – with far-reaching consequences for the Middle East.

“The United States is holding Iran accountable for recent unjustified aggression against commercial shipping and civilian crews freely navigating a vital international waterway,” said US Central Command.

After renewed US strikes, the president declared the interim accord with Tehran “over” and dismissed further negotiations as a waste of time.

For weeks, there has been discussion of a ceasefire, diplomacy, and a possible peace agreement between the United States and Iran.

Washington responds with extensive airstrikes following Iranian attacks on civilian vessels. Tehran accuses the United States of violating the ceasefire and vows consequences.

It is not a contest between moderates and hardliners that a rational negotiator can resolve.