Pakistan, June 17 -- Reports that Israel had considered assassinating Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have deepened fears of a region teetering on the edge. According to credible American sources, the plan was ultimately not pursued, thanks to President Donald Trump. Whether leaked intentionally or not, the very existence of such a plan is alarming. Throughout modern conflict, states have largely avoided targeting the top leadership of rival nations. Such moves tend to cross thresholds that make de-escalation nearly impossible.

Israel has long acted with strategic impunity in the region, often shielded from consequences by its powerful allies. Its conduct in Gaza, widely condemned by human rights organizations, reveals a p...