What it is about
MK Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity party, delivered a pivotal speech at the MEAD Conference in Washington, emphasizing the urgency for Israel to prepare for military action in the North unless a deal to free hostages is reached imminently.
Why it matters
Gantz’s statements underscore Israel’s unwavering commitment to national security and the lengths it is willing to go to protect its citizens and national interests. His speech signals a potential escalation in the North, with far-reaching implications for the region.
The Situation in the North
Reflecting on the ongoing conflict, Gantz acknowledged initial mistakes in Israel’s response, specifically the mass evacuation of populations. He now stresses the need for a targeted approach focusing on towns near the border. Gantz maintains that if a deal for the hostages is not achieved soon, military escalation with Hezbollah is inevitable.
A Decade of Operations in Gaza
Emphasizing Israeli resilience, Gantz outlined his vision of victory in Gaza, rooted in the safe return of hostages and residents to their homes. He stated that ensuring Hamas cannot rebuild will require a decade of continued operations.
The Iranian Threat
Gantz highlighted Iran as the true root of regional instability, pointing to Iranian influence in Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, and beyond. He advocated for stringent measures on Iran, covering their nuclear capabilities and support for proxies.
Building Regional Partnerships
Expressing optimism, Gantz emphasized the importance of regional collaborations, especially with nations like Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the role platforms like the MEAD Conference play in fostering these strategic alliances for mutual benefits in security, economics, and science.
The MEAD Conference
Held for the first time in Washington, DC, the MEAD Conference is a global, bipartisan event focused on strategic dialogue between the Middle East and the US. It draws senior leaders from multiple domains to discuss evolving geopolitical dynamics.
This story was first published on jpost.com.