Israel's Next Government Faces Key Regional Challenges

Israel's upcoming government will inherit a complex set of regional issues, including the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, according to an analysis by Israel Hayom. A plan for Gaza's reconstruction, detailed on the sidelines of UN General Assembly meetings, has a budget of approximately $2.5 billion but is currently frozen. The plan allocates about $1 billion for a multinational force and disarmament, including tunnel closures and unexploded ordnance removal, alongside humanitarian projects and rebuilding infrastructure.

Progress on the Gaza reconstruction plan is reportedly contingent on gradual progress in disarming Hamas, with Israel participating in discussions and providing input. However, "Peace Council" sources suggest that any significant steps may be delayed until after the October 27th Israeli elections. Israel is also engaged in regular, US-mediated communications between its ambassador and Lebanon's ambassador to reach understandings on border security, while conducting military operations against Hezbollah infrastructure.

Political progress in Lebanon is seen as dependent on the Lebanese government's ability to cooperate in curbing Hezbollah's influence. The analysis suggests that a future settlement might emerge from parallel diplomatic efforts and military actions, with the responsibility potentially falling on the next Israeli government.

Regarding Iran, the report references a previous statement by Prime Minister Netanyahu expressing his goal of leading a move to overthrow the Iranian regime. This objective, it is suggested, could extend beyond the Israeli elections and the US midterm elections in November.

The analysis also touches upon the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords to include new countries, with Saudi Arabia identified as a possible candidate. Netanyahu has alluded to other nations in his UN General Assembly address. Ultimately, the report concludes that several regional files, from Gaza and Lebanon to Iran and Saudi Arabia, will likely remain tied to the formation and political direction of Israel's next government.