Tensions with Iran have risen and Green Level students were buzzing over break over whether or not we would live through World War 3. What really happened? Does Iran really have the power to start a war with us? Could we be drafted?

As The New York Times states, shortly after the new year started, President Trump ordered an attack resulting in the killing of Iran’s most powerful commander,  Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani. He was killed by a drone strike according to The Washington Post.  Some Americans, and many Iranians were unhappy with the decision and some see killing a leader as a sign of war. Others feel that war will not arise because the Iranian leader doesn’t want to attack Americans even if he does want to attack President Trump.

The big question on many young peoples’ minds, though, is whether or not they could be drafted to serve in a war in the Middle East? Social media has spread stress about this issue, but according to The New York Times, “there has been no conscription since 1973, when the draft was abolished after opposition to fighting in Vietnam.” The Times quotes historical expert Dr. Mittelstadt as saying, “There was huge support for ending the draft across the political spectrum.” In order for today’s young men and women to be drafted, the President and Congress would have to take the politically unpopular step of reinstating the draft–so for now, our fears are pretty irrational. 

Still, tensions between the U.S. and Iran are high, and only getting higher. Check back on The Gators Eye for more news on this topic.