The decades-long war between America, Israel, and Iran in the Middle East is now shifting to the Balkans, specifically Bosnia and Herzegovina. American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow have not sparked new escalation in the Middle East, but the conflict between the US and Israel against Iran is deepening. Iran has been militarily active in Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria, and now the war flames could spread to the Balkans, as the Middle East is close, and all military and political operations can easily be transferred to Bosnia.
In Bosnia, two Bosniak ministers, Zukan Helez (Minister of Defense) and Elmedin Konaković (Minister of Foreign Affairs), have further complicated the situation with their actions. Helez revealed intentions to expand military cooperation with Iran, surprising the Americans who stated that this cooperation was happening behind their backs and without their knowledge. In response, the US sent a stern warning to Bosnia, cautioning that the country could lose all partnership privileges with the US if it continues to support Iran.
Following the US warning, Konaković retaliated against the US and Israel by expelling a rabbi from Sarajevo and banning a scheduled European rabbinical conference, causing shock and condemnation from the international community. Chief Rabbi Pinhas Goldsmith expressed disappointment and stated that Bosnia should be disqualified from the EU accession process due to this shameful act.
Sarajevo refused to change its stance towards Iran despite US pressure. Although Alija Izetbegović renounced Iranian military and intelligence aid in the 1990s, Iranian secret services continue to operate in Bosnia through numerous cultural, scientific, and humanitarian organizations. Iran holds significant influence in Bosnia, posing a serious security threat and provoking reactions from the US and Israel.
This situation casts a shadow over the stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, as the great power conflict from the Middle East now echoes locally. While politicians in Sarajevo continue to support Iran, Bosnia stands on the brink of a serious crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s security and international standing.
If you think the Balkans are far from the Middle East conflicts, think again. The war is not only fought on distant fronts but also in the heart of Europe, and Bosnia has become a new battleground for geopolitical games that could explode at any moment. So, what do you think? Will Sarajevo manage to avoid this dangerous game, or will the Balkans once again become a victim of great powers? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s for peace and who’s for chaos!
