Anyone who truly believes his religion would like to see as many converted as possible. While Christ told and exemplified to His followers to do this by means of preaching, Mohammed advocated and exemplified the use of violence for this purpose and for the general advancement of their own people. This was not only for two centuries, but from Islam's inception in the 7th century, when Mohammed robbed and killed innocent travelers, and invaded Mecca in 630. See Flyer's picture for an answer worth 1000 words. So refuge is offered to someone willing to submit to Islam? I think we all acknowledge that. This is not true. A Jewish community was carved into what had become mostly an Arabic region. But over half of those Arabs professed Christianity at the time. Some estimates are far greater (cbn.com). And Israel certainly mistreated those professing Christianity. But what interest should Iran have in any of that? They are not Arabic, but find the state of Israel as convenient fuel for the fire. I have my problems with Israel, but their responses are provoked. No, the conflicts we are in are the result of an idealogy that demands global denomination and death to dissenters. Our lack of success in our conflicts and wars can certainly be traced to ignorance. And we continue to have people in high places believing that this problem can be solved with dialogue. I desire peace as much as anyone, but the Muslims do not desire peace if their goals are not met. Then I hope you will understand that Muslims (or at least what some call "Islamicists") are not motivated by mere recent developments. They follow their beliefs, and those beliefs demand violence.