Dear Editor,

In an era marked by relentless chaos and geopolitical tension, it’s crucial we maintain perspective and clarity.

The spectre of World War III looming over us is an exaggeration — a fearmongering tactic that distracts from the real issues at hand. History, including the courageous struggle of my own Jamaican ancestors for freedom, teaches us that perseverance and steadfastness can overcome even the most oppressive forces.

Today, I want to acknowledge the brave leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the State of Israel for their unwavering stance against the Islamic regime in Iran. Their decisive actions serve not only their own sovereignty, but also stand as a bulwark against a regime that has wrought death, destruction, and tyranny across the Middle East and beyond.

The Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, in 1979, was not merely a political upheaval but a violent overthrow that unleashed a wave of repression — oppressing Iranians and ethnic/religious minorities, crushing women’s rights, and choking out hope for freedom. The Woman, Life, Freedom movement echoes the same spirit of resistance that once fuelled struggles for justice worldwide.

Iran’s regime has sponsored numerous proxy wars and terrorist groups — Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and others — spreading chaos from Lebanon to Syria and Yemen. The regime’s hostility is also evident in its assassination attempts on dissidents and perceived opponents, both inside Iran and abroad, including prominent figures like US President Donald Trump. Its slogans — Death to America and Death to Israel — are not empty words but deadly threats supported by Iran’s relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons and regional dominance.

Since the Islamic Revolution, millions of Iranians and other people throughout the Middle East (murdered by Iranian-sponsored terror proxies) have died — victims of a brutal regime that suppresses its own people while fuelling conflicts elsewhere. Even international voices, such as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have acknowledged the threat, stating that this Iranian regime has brought death and destruction to the world, and he has the greatest respect for the fact that the Israeli army and leadership had the courage to do the dirty work for the rest of the world.

Iranians deserve to be free from this Islamic occupation. Their yearning for democracy and human rights echoes through the streets today, and the return of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi remains a beacon of hope for a liberated Iran. The world must support this aspiration, not dismiss it with fears of global catastrophe.

Let us remember the countless lives lost since 1979 — each a testament to the brutality of the Islamic regime. The path forward is clear: supporting the Iranian people’s quest for freedom and standing firmly with Israel’s right to defend itself.

I assert with confidence: No, World War III is not going to happen! What is happening is a pivotal moment for justice and liberty. We must stand united with Iran’s brave fighters for freedom and the resilient State of Israel.

Long live free Iran! Long live Israel!

Jillian Forbes

jillianforbes21@gmail.com