Why are the US and Israel framing the ongoing conflict as a religious war?
Al Jazeera
March 4, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
As tensions escalate in the Middle East, US and Israeli officials are increasingly using religious rhetoric to frame their actions against Iran. Reports suggest that American military personnel have been told the conflict is part of a divine plan leading to biblical events like Armageddon, with references to Jesus Christ’s return and the Book of Revelation. This narrative has drawn sharp criticism from groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), who label it "dangerous" and "anti-Muslim." Similarly, Israeli leaders have invoked ancient biblical stories, such as comparing Iran to the Amalekites—enemies of the Israelites in the Torah—and using religious justifications for military actions.
The use of theological language by US and Israeli officials appears aimed at mobilizing support and Justifying their war efforts. For instance, former US Ambassador Mike Huckabee suggested that Israel’s territorial ambitions are backed by biblical promises, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio referred to Iran’s leaders as "religious fanatic lunatics." Such rhetoric has been condemned by experts and rights groups, who argue it risks escalating tensions further and alienating global public opinion.
Jolyon Mitchell, a professor at Durham University, explained that framing conflicts as holy wars can help leaders justify military actions and rally political support. This strategy not only polarizes the situation but also raises concerns about its long-term implications for regional stability and international relations. Critics warn that such rhetoric could fuel further violence, while also undermining efforts to find diplomatic solutions.
The ongoing conflict has already seen significant escalation, with Iran retaliating against US and Israeli targets across the region. The US military’s reported use of religious Justifications for war has added another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation. As the conflict evolves, the use of religious narratives by both sides risks deepening divisions and complicating any potential resolution.
Ultimately, this framing of the conflict as a religious war matters because it shapes how the public perceives the violence and supports or condemns it. By invoking divine plans and biblical prophecies, US and Israeli leaders are attempting to legitimize their actions on a larger scale—one that transcends political motivations and appeals to theological
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/4/2026