(Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies-Bar-Ilan University) Efraim Inbar - The changing regional balance of power in favor of Turkey and Iran, who both encourage radical elements in the region, does not favor Israel. As well, the seeming decline of American clout in the Middle East has negatively affected the peace process with Israel and reduced its deterrence power. Israel is facing greater regional isolation, more terror, threats to its sea lanes and energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean, and the prospects of a nuclear Iran. While the power differential between Israel and its neighbors is larger than ever, it must spend more money on defense and has to cultivate new relationships in the region. Most Israelis understand the reality of living in the Middle East, but they must recognize that this rough neighborhood may become even more brutish in the near future.
2012-03-02 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive