What’s happening:

The conflict between Israel and Hamas is intensifying, with the latest surge of violence marking a significant escalation in the region. This clash is not merely a local skirmish but a broader confrontation between differing civilizations with implications for the new Middle East.

Why it matters:

The recent attacks have resulted in profound sadness and shock across Israel, signaling a pivotal moment that challenges the very notion of coexistence and peace in the region. The Israeli perspective suggests that the current strategy of containment has failed, necessitating a fundamental shift in approach to ensure the nation’s security and stability.

The backdrop:

Since the establishment of the Palestinian Authority (PA) by the Oslo Accords in 1993, Israel has navigated a complex landscape of threats from radical Islam and secular pan-Arabism. Recent events have shown that previous strategies, such as unilateral withdrawals and the PA’s governance, may have inadvertently emboldened extremist factions, leading to increased aggression against Israeli territory.

Iran’s influence:

Iran is identified as a central figure in supporting and fueling the axis of terror. The acknowledgment of Tehran’s role in arming and financing terrorist activities underscores the necessity for a decisive and proactive stance against threats to Israel’s existence.

The Israeli stance:

Israel’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology argues for a strategic pivot away from the concept of a Palestinian Authority and any notion of a two-state solution. Instead, the focus is on achieving defensible borders, particularly emphasizing the strategic depth of the Jordan Valley and the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.

Looking forward:

The vision for a new Middle East involves the complete removal of Hamas rule in Gaza and the establishment of a new order managed by international bodies. This would entail administrative, but not security, control by organizations such as the UN and the World Bank. Israel asserts that only the IDF can guarantee security, proposing a security barrier to protect its citizens.

Conclusion:

Strength and unity are seen as the cornerstones to achieving lasting peace in the region. The proposal outlines a vision where Israel’s security is non-negotiable and where international cooperation plays a role in civil governance, paving the way for a peaceful future in the Middle East.

This story was first published on jpost.