Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a video message released on the evening of December 15, recalled that a year ago he promised to change the face of the middle East.
“And this is exactly what we are doing. Syria, Lebanon, the Gaza Strip have changed beyond recognition. Iran,which created the axis of evil,is no longer the same as before,it has suffered the brunt of our blow.We are acting thoughtfully, trying to ensure the security of our borders.This does not mean that there is no longer a threat. As far as iran and its minions are concerned,the situation is very dynamic. I would like to focus on Syria. We are not interested in confrontation with this country. Our policy towards syria will be resolute based on the real situation,” the prime minister said.
“In the new conditions, Defense minister Israel Katz and I instructed the IDF to eliminate the threats emanating from Syrian territory and to prevent the border areas of Syria from falling into the hands of terrorists,” Netanyahu said.And he added that one of Israel’s main tasks remains to prevent the rearmament of Hezbollah in Lebanon.
“I discussed all these issues with our great friend Donald Trump, the President-elect of the United States.It was a very warm and friendly conversation. We talked about the path to a complete victory over terror and the possibility of freeing the hostages. We will continue to work tirelessly to return all those abducted – both living and dead in captivity. The less we say, the more we will achieve,” the politician concluded.
Let us remind you that “Cursor” wrote that the Third World War is just around the corner. The worsening situation in Ukraine, numerous conflicts in the Middle East and increasing tensions in East Asia are harbingers of a global conflict, or its first stage.
What are the key challenges Israel faces with Hezbollah in the context of rearmament?
Interview with Dr. Sarah Cohen, Middle East Political Analyst
Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Cohen. Recently, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made strong statements regarding the changing geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, particularly in Syria, lebanon, and Gaza.What are your thoughts on his assertion that these regions have changed “beyond recognition”?
A: Thank you for having me.Netanyahu’s remarks reflect a meaningful shift in the dynamics of the Middle East. Over the past year,we’ve seen a variety of military and political maneuvers that have altered power balances,particularly concerning Iran and its influence in Syria and Lebanon. The emphasis on strategic changes signals that Israel is adapting to new threats and opportunities, including countering Iranian influence—a key aspect of their national security policy.
Q: Netanyahu also mentioned that Israel aims to prevent the rearmament of Hezbollah in Lebanon. Can you elaborate on the implications of this objective?
A: Absolutely. hezbollah represents one of israel’s greatest security challenges. By preventing Hezbollah’s rearmament, Israel is not only safeguarding its northern borders but also trying to diminish the militia’s military capabilities, which could be beneficial for broader regional stability. This policy requires a combination of military action and diplomatic engagement—Israel must coordinate closely with partners, particularly the U.S., to tackle this ongoing threat effectively.
Q: The Prime Minister hinted at a dynamic situation regarding Iran. What does this mean for Israel’s security strategy moving forward?
A: The term “dynamic” is key here. It implies that Israel’s security strategy must remain flexible and responsive to rapid developments. The ongoing conflict in Syria presents immediate security threats, as terrorist groups could exploit instability. Israel’s policy will likely involve ongoing intelligence operations, targeted military actions, and perhaps an emphasis on alliances with local powers that oppose Iranian expansion.
Q: Netanyahu spoke about a ‘warm and friendly conversation’ with President-elect Donald Trump, focusing on a unified approach to combating terrorism. How do you envision U.S.-Israel relations evolving in this context?
A: Given Trump’s historical support for Israel, we can expect a continuation of strong bilateral relations focusing on mutual security interests. This could include enhanced military cooperation, economic ties, and perhaps renewed efforts for peace negotiations in the region.However, it is crucial to understand that political dynamics can shift rapidly, especially considering events like the Ukraine conflict and its potential to effect global alliances.
Q: Considering the warning from “Cursor” about a possible escalation towards global conflict, how should countries in the Middle East respond strategically?
A: Strategic caution is paramount. Countries in the region need to prioritize diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions and avoid conflicts that could spiral into wider wars, unlike what happened in the past with the Lebanese Civil war or regional confrontations in Iraq and syria. Building coalitions against common threats like terrorism and iranian dominance while fostering dialogues for peace and stability is essential.This proactive approach could mitigate the risks of broader conflicts, which are increasingly becoming a concern in our globally interconnected era.
Q: Any practical advice for readers who wish to stay informed on these developments?
A: Absolutely. To understand the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, readers should engage with a diverse range of sources, including academic analyses, local news reports, and expert interviews. Following credible think tanks that specialize in international relations and Middle Eastern studies can also provide context and deeper insights. Understanding historical narratives and the socio-political fabric of these regions is vital for grasping current events. Additionally, staying aware of diplomatic efforts is crucial for seeing how these geopolitical shifts may unfold.
Q: thank you, Dr. Cohen, for your insights on these pressing issues in the Middle East.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to discuss these crucial topics shaping our world today.