(WBRE/WYOU) — Many are asking the question: Should the United States have gotten involved in the conflict between Israel and Iran? There were mixed reactions from the community on Sunday.
On one side, the danger the Iranian regime poses to the United States and our allies, on the other, was the strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, worth the potential long-term ramifications it may have on the United States at home and abroad.
A stop at the Arena Hub brought opposing opinions on the US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites.
"I think the best thing is what happened because with a nuclear weapon with a regime like that, it's very dangerous for the entire world," Berwick resident Robert Stashko told 28/22 News.
"I think it's a tragedy on both parts. I think it was motivated by Trump. I think that lives have been hurt. I don't think that was the way to go," Gloria Sekusky from Pittston said.
The United States is no stranger to involvement in the Middle East, but this attack marks the first sign of escalation against Iran since the 2020 assassination of Iranian Major General, Qasem Soleimani.
The big question now? Is it the United States government's responsibility to back Israel, and if so, was the attack the right move?
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"I feel it was going on for years, and finally it came to this point. I think it's right, definitely. You hate to see human life get lost, but you know, it's better maybe some now than thousands or millions later," Stashko continued.
"I think there's a lot of things going on behind the scenes that we don't know, so with that said, I hope that we stop all of this and just look to what's important for mankind," Sekusky added.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the situation during his visit to Pocono Raceway on Sunday, condemning Iran's nuclear interests.
"I will say, with regard to the Iranian nuclear program, it was obviously very, very dangerous. The idea that Iran, the world's largest sponsor of terror, would have a nuclear weapon would not only destabilize the Middle East, but it would create risk for American interests at home and abroad," Governor Shapiro stated.
At the same time, Shapiro questioned States' involvement in the region going forward
"I think what is most important right now is that we not have any escalation beyond what occurred last night. I don't think any of us want to get dragged into another long war in the Middle East," Governor Shapiro added.
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Regardless of their stance on the attacks, locals I spoke with made one thing clear.
"Stop the bombings. You know, I think that's what everybody wants. Any human being wants peace," said Sekusky.
"Peace is everything, we've got to get along. Life is so short, you know, why should we be going at each other? It makes no sense. We're all on this planet together," Stashko stated.
Both people 28/22 News spoke with say they think retaliation by Iran, either at home or abroad, is certainly a possibility.
Governor Shapiro says there is currently no threat to the commonwealth and that he and his team are remaining vigilant to keep residents here in Pennsylvania safe.
