Meir Ben Shabbat: I assume there is a combination of considerations here — some related to foreign policy, others to domestic politics — but the basis is still the naive …
Israeli grand strategy, superpower relations, Abraham Accords, Palestinian-Israeli relations, internal security and governance
Head of the Misgav Institute for National Security & Zionist Strategy. Served as Israel’s national security advisor and head of the National Security Council between 2017 and 2021 and played a key role in negotiating the Abraham Accords. Prior to that he served for 30 years in the Israel Security Agency (the Shin Bet), heading three divisions: Counter Terrorism, Cyber Defense, and the Southern Command. Was awarded the US Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service.
-
-
Hamas draws encouragement from the success of the “hunger in Gaza” campaign and the responses it generated worldwide and in Israel. They are also pleased with the connection made between the Palestinian statehood recognition initiative and the war in the Strip.
-
Meir Ben Shabbat: Unfortunately, some countries fall prey to Hamas’ manipulation. The world finds it easier to identify with the suffering of the weaker side. Israel gains sympathy only when …
-
Meir Ben-Shabbat: There is a difference between difficult conditions that emerge from a lengthy war and intentional starving on Israel’s part. If Hamas will release the hostages and disarm, the …
-
Hamas currently believes the momentum is in its favor and is hardening its positions. Advancing a voluntary migration plan would pressure the terrorist organization and also address allegations of starvation in Gaza. On the ground, it’s possible to shift the situation without increasing risk to Israeli troops.
-
Meir Ben Shabbat: The events in Syria provided the whole world with an opportunity to see again what Jolani’s [Ahmed al-Sharaa] ‘base’ looks like. This does not mean that Israel …