Although modern Western political systems emphasize the separation of religion and state, religious ideas are again appearing in discussions about the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Following recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, reports surfaced that some American military personnel said commanders described the operation as part of “God’s plan,” referring to Armageddon, a biblical end-times battle described in the Book of Revelation.
International affairs scholar Richard Falk argues that strong religious support for Israel in parts of US politics comes from certain evangelical interpretations of biblical prophecy.
Religious symbolism also appeared in Israeli rhetoric. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Iran as “Amalek,” referring to an enemy in the Torah that, in biblical tradition, must be remembered and confronted.
According to Middle East analyst Luciano Zaccara, the escalation also happened during Purim, a Jewish festival commemorating events described in the Book of Esther. Some commentators have used this timing to frame the conflict through historical and religious analogies.
Zaccara says religion is not necessarily the main cause of the war but notes that religious narratives can influence political messaging and public perception.
Some American political figures, including Pete Hegseth, Lindsey Graham, and Mike Johnson, have also used religious language when discussing the conflict. Critics argue such rhetoric can contribute to tensions and accusations of Islamophobia.
Meanwhile, some observers in Iran say the conflict is less about religion and more about geopolitical interests, including energy resources and regional influence.
Scholars note that these debates echo earlier theories such as The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order by Samuel P. Huntington, which suggested that future global conflicts might be shaped by cultural and civilizational identities.
Overall, analysts say the growing use of religious narratives in political discourse risks framing geopolitical struggles in spiritual or civilizational terms, which can deepen divisions and complicate efforts toward diplomacy.
Source: TRT World
