Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates has expressed concerns over the lack of historical knowledge among young people protesting the Israel-Hamas conflict on college campuses. In recent weeks, American universities have become centers of opposition to the war's toll on Palestinians in Gaza, with demonstrations cropping up throughout the country.

Speaking on the show "Face the Nation," Gates highlighted the complexity and difficulty of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, stating that many young demonstrators are not well-versed in its history. He emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of the region's background and complexities.

The protests on college campuses have drawn attention due to instances of antisemitic rhetoric, raising concerns about the safety of Jewish students. Gates pointed out the inconsistent application and enforcement of university rules regarding demonstrations, advocating for a consistent approach that balances free speech considerations with the protection of all students.

Expanding on the dynamics in the Middle East, Gates identified four ongoing wars in the region. In addition to the war in Gaza, he mentioned conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen, and militias in Syria and Iraq. Gates attributed these conflicts to Iran, which he described as the common factor behind all four wars. He expressed the importance of addressing the issue of Iran's involvement, which he believes has been overshadowed by the focus on Gaza.

Furthermore, Gates criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for disregarding U.S. views and requests, including those related to humanitarian aid during the ongoing war in Gaza. Gates referred to President Biden's recent decision to withhold specific armaments to Israel as a means to capture their attention when allies ignore important concerns.

As the Israeli-Hamas conflict continues to escalate, voices like Gates' highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the historical context and complexities involved. With concerns over anti-Semitism and the safety of Jewish students on campus, universities are being urged to consistently apply and enforce their rules regarding demonstrations. The broader implications for American security and the role of Iran in the region remain crucial topics that require attention and discussion.