What it’s about
Iran’s grip on the West Bank is tightening, signaling a dangerous new phase in Palestinian terrorism. Recent developments reveal an escalation reminiscent of major terror waves from past decades, highlighting the Iranian strategy to surround Israel with conflict.
Why it matters
Iran’s unprecedented efforts to destabilize the West Bank have turned the region into a pressure cooker. Tehran is orchestrating and funding terrorism through frameworks such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad, infiltrating the area’s socio-economic challenges—especially the impoverishment due to unemployment and restricted movement— to gain a foothold.
Funding Terror
Iran’s method includes an enormous inflow of funds, smuggled weapons, and exploitation of Israel’s border fence vulnerabilities. Their costly, coordinated financial and logistical support strengthens terrorist cells in cities like Jenin and Tulkarm, aiming to challenge IDF operations.
Global Shift
The waning global focus on the idea of an independent Palestinian state is shifting West Bank residents’ perceptions. Efforts in diplomatic arenas have dissipated, reinforcing the abandonment of the two-state solution and reigniting tendencies towards violent, terror-based strategies.
Leadership Challenges
The internal struggles within Palestinian leadership exacerbate the issue. Figures like Khaled Mashaal and Mahmoud Abbas face harsh criticism for ineffective resistance efforts, pushing grassroots movements to fill the void alone, leading to disorder and escalated violence.
IDF’s Response
Responding to the resurgence of terror tactics reminiscent of past Intifadas, the IDF has introduced more aggressive counter measures. These include aerial strikes, drone use, and frequent operations in terrorist hotspots, raising daily Palestinian casualties and questioning the effectiveness of Israel’s strategy.
The Bigger Question
Israel now stands at a crossroads. Leaders must decide whether to continue the “mowing the grass” approach or address the situation as an integrated part of an Iranian-backed multi-front war.Repeating ineffective approaches could be seen as folly. Policymakers should consider addressing the root cause—rooting out Iranian influence in the West Bank and holding Tehran accountable for its actions.
About the author
The writer, a Middle East expert and lecturer at the Western Galilee Academic College, formerly served as head of security coordination with the Palestinians and governor of Jenin and Bethlehem.
This story was first published on jpost.com.