By: Abid Ali Khan
Senior Journalist & Columnist
In the current global context, the Middle East appears to be rapidly heading toward a conflict whose repercussions may not remain confined to the region but could shake the very foundations of global peace. The unusual military movements of global powers like the United States and the United Kingdom, the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, and the shifting focus away from the war in Ukraine all indicate that the world is standing at the threshold of a new and potentially devastating war.
Strategic Realignment and a New Military Focus The recent transfer of over 2,000 missile systems and air defense units by the United States from Ukraine to the Middle East is no routine maneuver. Rather, it marks a clear shift in military priorities. Similarly, the movement of the UK’s major naval assets toward the Middle East strongly suggests that Western powers are preparing for a significant military confrontation in the region. It wouldn’t be the first time that the United States denied involvement before a major military offensive. Just a day before Israel’s recent strikes on Iran, the U.S. publicly claimed to have restrained Israel. Yet, the very next night, the skies over Iran were lit with missile fire. That same pattern of deception and calculated timing appears to be repeating itself now.
America’s Role: Intervention Behind a Curtain of Denial?
While the United States continues to publicly deny direct involvement in this emerging conflict, its historical conduct, diplomatic messaging, and troop deployments strongly suggest that its engagement has already begun—albeit without a formal declaration. This evolving scenario reveals that the war in Ukraine has now taken a back seat on the global agenda. The new focal point is the Middle East—particularly Iran and its allies. In this context, Pakistan’s strategic location and its potential vulnerability must not be overlooked.
The Muslim World Must Awaken This is no longer the time for passive analysis or wait-and-see diplomacy. All Muslim nations must activate their defense systems, formulate unified diplomatic strategies, and explore military cooperation at regional and international levels. Rather than waiting for an assault, the time has come for strategic foresight, unity, and preparedness. Islamic history has repeatedly shown that when the forces of disbelief unite, disunity among Muslims becomes a fatal weakness. Today, the Muslim Ummah must rise—not only militarily but also intellectually, diplomatically, and in the media narrative.
A Spiritual Dimension: Is This the Foretold Battle?
Some scholars and analysts are beginning to associate this unfolding crisis with the eschatological prophecies of the End Times. The descriptions in the Prophetic traditions of the “Malhama al-Kubra” (the Great Battle) seem to resonate with current global developments. When the world is engulfed in flames, when oppression against Muslims reaches its peak, and when the tyrannical powers align to attack Islam—these signs suggest that history is nearing a decisive turning point.
Final Thoughts
This is a time for wisdom over emotion, for insight over slogans. If we are truly committed to defending our faith, our lands, and our ideological identity, we must move forward with discipline, unity, and clarity of vision. Whether war or peace lies ahead, that decision rests with Allah—but preparation remains the responsibility of the believers. May Allah Almighty grant us the strength to stand firm on the side of truth. Ameen.
