Israel Faces Critical Choice: Internal Security vs. Regional Opportunities
The Palestinian Authority in Ramallah may prefer a settlement with Israel over a forced solution, as Washington has designated Hamas as the entity responsible for Gaza. This creates a shared interest between Israel and the PA. However, the outcome hinges on the upcoming Israeli elections.
The rise of Jewish terrorism, described as a grave internal threat, necessitates that post-election Israel seriously address the Palestinian issue. While a wise government might have sought to manage the problem to preserve strategic depth, the current situation is different. Jewish terrorism is deemed far more dangerous than Palestinian terrorism because it originates from within Israel.
The potential for Jewish terror operatives to interfere in the upcoming elections highlights the severity of the threat. The article criticizes Israeli politics for being insular and ignoring global realities, including potential repercussions from international courts. It notes the rise of extremist right-wing figures and their rhetoric, warning against underestimating their influence.
Disputes with European powers like Britain and Germany are seen as detrimental, especially concerning their roles in a multinational force for Gaza. Continued conflict with these nations could lead to a forced international solution for the West Bank, mirroring developments in Gaza. This international oversight, potentially driven by Jewish terrorism, could extend to the entire Palestinian population.
Discussions with PA officials reveal their keen interest in Israel's election results. While previously favoring a forced solution, key figures in Ramallah now prefer a negotiated settlement with Israel. This shift is driven by a fear that the international community might impose elections on them, potentially bringing Hamas to power in the West Bank. Both Israel and the PA share an interest in preventing this scenario. The PA hopes a new Israeli government will engage in negotiations for a permanent agreement, moving beyond past failed parameters and potentially involving Jordan in shaping the Palestinian future.
The article also emphasizes the strategic importance of normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia, which was disrupted by the October 7th attacks. With the Strait of Hormuz becoming an unreliable energy route, connecting Israel to Arabian Peninsula energy pipelines is presented as a major opportunity for Israel's prosperity. Missing this chance could lead to Turkey becoming the energy hub, a scenario deemed highly dangerous for Israel. The US has reportedly informed the PA that Hamas will be the designated authority in Gaza post-conflict, further solidifying a shared interest between Israel and the PA in managing the situation.
Europe is demanding reforms from the PA, including educational changes and peace education, with elections being a key demand the PA is currently unwilling to meet due to Hamas. If the new Israeli government accepts the overtures from a new Ramallah government, Israel could influence the terms of these reforms, such as curriculum changes and halting payments to families of terrorists. The article suggests Israel should also examine its own educational curricula. Normalization with Saudi Arabia could fulfill their demand for progress towards a Palestinian state, positioning Israel as a major energy terminal from the Arabian Peninsula to Europe.
