As the U.S. And Israel continue military actions against Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a transformed Middle East. On Thursday, Netanyahu stated, “[translated] Even now it can be said with certainty: This is no longer the same Iran, this is no longer the same Middle East, and this is also not the same Israel. We are not waiting. We are initiating. We are attacking. And we are doing so with a force the like of which has not been seen before.”
A Shift in Regional Dynamics
According to award-winning Israeli journalist Gideon Levy, writing for Haaretz, the current conflict is marked by widespread support within Israeli public opinion. A recent survey by the Israel Democracy Institute found that 93% of Israeli Jews support the war, a figure Levy described as comparable to those seen in North Korea.
Concerns Over Media Coverage and Palestinian Experiences
Levy also expressed concern over the state of Israeli media, stating that it functions as an agency of the government and military establishment. He noted a lack of coverage regarding the impact of Israeli actions in Gaza. He described a dramatic worsening of conditions in the West Bank, with villages being effectively locked down and Palestinians facing displacement and violence from settlers.
Regional Instability and U.S. Involvement
Levy suggested that Israel’s actions are enabled by massive and automatic American support, and that a shift in U.S. Policy could alter the current trajectory. He also referenced comments made by U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, suggesting a vision of Israeli dominance over the entire Middle East.
Disparities in Perspective
While 93% of Israeli Jews support the war, only 23% of Arab citizens of Israel do, according to the Israel Democracy Institute survey. Levy noted that the voices of Arab citizens are largely ignored in Israeli public discourse and political life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Netanyahu’s assessment of the current situation?
Netanyahu believes that the war has fundamentally changed the dynamics of the region, stating that “this is no longer the same Iran, this is no longer the same Middle East, and this is also not the same Israel.”
What is the level of support for the war within Israel?
According to a recent survey by the Israel Democracy Institute, 93% of Israeli Jews support the war.
What concerns has Gideon Levy raised regarding the West Bank?
Levy reports that the West Bank is experiencing a dramatic worsening of conditions, with villages being locked down, Palestinians facing displacement, and violence from settlers increasing.
Given the complex and rapidly evolving situation, what role will international diplomacy play in de-escalating tensions and preventing further regional instability?
