The article argues that Israeli security strategy is misdirected in viewing Iran as the main enemy while overlooking the immediate threat posed by Hamas and its radical ideology. Following the events of October 7, there is an urgent need for Israel to reevaluate its approach to prioritize Gaza and combat the ideological roots of terrorism, rather than being fixated solely on Iran.
The prevalent notion that Hamas is deterred has been a cornerstone of Israeli security assessments for years, stemming from a flawed understanding that equates its actions with economic motivations. The tragic events of October 7 have revealed the significant misjudgments regarding Hamas, which is fueled by identity and ideology rather than just economic interests. Unfortunately, Israeli leadership continues to pursue strategies that overlook Hamas’s ideological roots and instead focus excessively on Iran as the principal threat.
The current doctrine guiding Israeli security postulates Iran as the “Head of the Snake,” suggesting that neutralizing Iran will lead to regional stability. However, this oversimplified view fails to address the complex nature of threats that stem from radical religious ideologies. Even within Iran, the regime operates on a broader revolutionary agenda that dismisses national interests in favor of global jihad, indicating that merely countering the state itself will not suffice.
The real challenge lies not in enmity from a nation or a conventional army but in confronting the deeply embedded religious ideology that propagates violence and radicalization. This ideology fuels organizations and can regenerate even after being dismantled. Consequently, the Israeli security establishment’s failure to recognize this truth limits its effectiveness against threats that transcend borders and political definitions.
Post-October 7, it becomes increasingly clear that Israel must prioritize dealing with terror emanating from Gaza, establishing a strategic shift towards addressing radical Islamic ideologies more directly. The West’s approach has historically been flawed, struggling to confront the ideological foundations of jihad due to prevailing misconceptions about freedom and oppression. Only by successfully engaging in Gaza can the West hope to portray strength against this comprehensive ideological threat.
The critique extends to military capabilities, suggesting that a robust ground force is necessary to exert control and maintain order, echoing strategies employed during World War II. However, recent actions reveal a troubling retreat from these principles, as military leadership appears to shift focus away from Gaza and onto broader themes of combating Iran, thereby overlooking crucial immediate threats. As discussions convene between Western leaders, the paramount issue of ideologically driven violence remains dangerously unaddressed.
The article critiques the Israeli government’s prevailing perspective that prioritizes Iran as the primary adversary while neglecting the more immediate threat posed by Hamas and its ideological underpinnings. It discusses how conventional assessments have been anchored in outdated views that prioritize economic deterrents over the identity-driven motivations of extremist groups. The piece reflects upon the implications of such misjudgments, suggesting that a reevaluation of threats is critical for effective security policies.
In summary, the persistent belief in an economically motivated Hamas has led to strategic miscalculations by Israeli leadership, risking substantial consequences. The emphasis on Iran as the primary enemy detracts from the more pressing need to address radical Islamic ideologies, particularly in Gaza, which serves as a litmus test for broader security challenges. A shift towards recognizing the ideological threats is essential for establishing effective countermeasures and achieving long-term stability.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
