Picture this: You’re walking down Republic Street in Valletta, the sun is shining, and you’re enjoying an ice cream. Suddenly, you notice a protest. It’s not about local issues, but about a conflict thousands of miles away – Iran. You might think, “That’s not my problem.” But is it?

The Iran-Iraq War: A Brief History

Let’s rewind to 1980. The Iran-Iraq War begins, a brutal eight-year conflict that claimed over a million lives. Today, while the war is over, the echoes of that conflict still reverberate in the Middle East. Iran’s actions, both domestically and internationally, continue to shape the region’s dynamics.

Malta’s Stance: Silent No More

Malta, historically neutral, has maintained a delicate balance in its foreign policy. However, recent events have pushed our island nation to speak out. In 2019, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps shot down a Ukrainian passenger jet, killing all 176 on board, including eight Maltese nationals. Malta’s outrage was palpable, with Prime Minister Robert Abela condemning the act and demanding justice.

But why stop there? Iran’s actions extend beyond our shores. Its support for terrorist groups, human rights abuses, and nuclear ambitions pose global threats. So, why the selective outrage?

The Double Standard: Why We Must Care

Imagine if a protester in Valletta held up a sign about human rights abuses in China. You might think, “That’s not my problem.” But it is. Because when we turn a blind eye to injustice elsewhere, we’re complicit in maintaining a double standard. We expect the world to care about our issues, yet we remain silent on theirs.

the Middle East is not an isolated region. Its instability can ripple across the globe, affecting oil prices, migration patterns, and even our security. We’ve seen this in the past, with the Arab Spring and the rise of ISIS. So, why not engage now, before the situation escalates?

Malta, with its strategic location and historical ties to the region, has a unique role to play. Our voice may be small, but it’s important. We can’t afford to stay silent, to pick and choose which injustices to care about.

What Can We Do?

So, what can we do? Here are a few suggestions:

• Educate ourselves. Learn about the issues, the history, and the complexities of the Middle East.
• Engage in dialogue. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues. Share your concerns and listen to theirs.
• Support local initiatives. Organizations like the Malta Council for Voluntary Sector work with refugees and migrants from the Middle East. Consider volunteering or donating.
• Contact your MP. Let them know you care about Malta’s foreign policy and want to see a more engaged stance.

Remember, every voice counts. Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. So, the next time you see a protest on Republic Street, don’t walk by. Stop, listen, and engage. Because it might just be your problem too.