|
Trending Topics
|
Source: https://www.ynetnews.com/opinions-analysis/article/rktghc8ewl
The U.S. Sets the Tone in Gaza
(Ynet News) Dr. Michael Milshtein - The dominant actor in postwar Gaza is no longer Israel but the Americans. Washington's forward base in Kiryat Gat signals unprecedented involvement in the conflict. Every step the U.S. advances is designed to cement a new reality on the ground that will restrict Israel's freedom of action and make a return to full-scale war very difficult. A U.S.-sponsored resolution at the UN Security Council on the deployment of foreign forces in Gaza includes the Palestinian Authority and mentions a potential Palestinian state. U.S. eagerness to preserve the ceasefire may push Washington to accept compromises - even at Israel's expense. Israel has two choices: confront Trump and set red lines (a path that risks a heavy price) or accept the changing reality and attempt to preserve maximum operational freedom, and retain a veto over decisions that sharply conflict with Israeli interests. The end of intense warfare in Gaza allows Israel a clearer strategic view of other arenas of conflict. Despite impressive gains in Lebanon and Iran-linked fronts, the job is unfinished. Fixating on Gaza and returning to large-scale war there erodes Israel's ability to deal with other key fronts - and, crucially, threatens international legitimacy, especially American. The writer heads the Forum for Palestinian Studies, Dayan Center, Tel Aviv University.