Violence in the Middle East deepening political divide in the US after strikes on Iran

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — The airstrikes that killed hundreds of Iranians on Saturday are now causing people across the world to take a stance, some praising the action to stop the killings of civilian protesters in Iran, while others condemn the violence, as they fear the implications.

President Trump announced that the U.S was involved in “major combat operations” shortly after Israel Defense Forces conducted the strikes across Iran on Saturday.

Another round of chaos in the Middle East has some Americans disheartened.

“That’s an ancient cycle of violence, that it’s really time to end,” said Rabbi Rick Winer of Temple Bath Israel in Fresno.

Winer says he’s been glued to his television watching missile strikes in Iran and counterattacks over Tel Aviv. The scenes evoke a range of emotions from Americans watching from the other side of the world.

“I’m angry. I’m hurting. I’m tortured. I want to do something about it,” said local Muslim leader Hajj Reza Nekumanesh. “And I guess the only thing I can do is come out here and scream.”

Dozens in Fresno had similar reactions Saturday, calling to end all war.

Some protesters are saying they’re concerned not only for the Iranian people, but American servicemembers as well —

One man tells Action News his sister is currently stationed in Kuwait.

“If anything happens, she’s going to see the brunt of it. She’s going to see the worst of the worst, because that’s what they’re going to bring to her. And when I saw that, I just couldn’t stop crying,” said anti-war protester Grayson Galimba.

Others add that they also fear for the Israeli people, who have become accustomed to missile sirens and hiding in bunkers.

A common sentiment Saturday across a politically divided U.S. was that change was needed. But after Iran’s Supreme Leader was killed in the strikes, many fear the consequences for Iranians and Israelis alike.

Millions of Iranians are frustrated with their leadership there. But we don’t know whether this was a step that helps or hurts that, because we have no idea who’s going to take their place. So, it’s extremely concerning,” said Winer.

Kerry Mannix is a general assignment reporter for ABC30 Action News. For news updates, follow her on Instagram.