The war witnessed in the Middle East requires serious reflection, because war itself is enough of a lesson. The security incidents experienced by the Arab Gulf states, the Iranian attacks, the damage inflicted on their economies due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and the attacks that targeted several energy sources in more than one country were not ordinary events. Rather, they created a context for structural changes in Gulf security that require unconventional solutions and rational, candid approaches at the same time. These approaches must avoid haste and emotional reactions and instead rely on firm wisdom that addresses the root causes of the problem and resolves them fundamentally through effective plans.

Cells of the Revolutionary Guard

During the recent war, more than one Gulf country announced the arrest of several cells affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, whose members included both citizens and residents.

These “cells” require careful attention, as they are connected to a security and intelligence file that should not be treated lightly, as happens in some social media networks, nor turned into material for sectarian debate and mutual accusations between different parties.

The security and sovereignty of states is a red line that governments do not compromise on. Therefore, firm handling of any cell with external affiliations will remain the primary principle that must be emphasized.

Another important point is that state institutions alone are responsible for the legal and judicial procedures that are followed: from arrest and detention, to referral to the public prosecution and investigation, then presentation before the judiciary, fair trials, defense by those concerned, and subsequently the issuance of a judicial ruling in accordance with legal procedures, leading up to the final judicial announcement based on what has been discussed throughout the successive stages. In other words, there are established legal procedures that must be respected in line with the principles of the rule of law and judicial independence.

Accordingly, no individual on social media platforms has the right to issue verdicts of guilt or innocence, as this is the responsibility of state institutions. It is also not acceptable to undermine these institutions or for the public to appoint themselves as judges issuing arbitrary rulings as they please.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Annahar