In a thought-provoking assessment, Zionist researcher Hagi Olshanitsky has acknowledged a critical shift in Israel's geopolitical landscape, signaling an end to what he terms as the era of Israeli triumphs. Writing for Israel's Zeman news site, Olshanitsky highlights the aftermath of October 7th, marking a pivotal moment where traditional notions of victory for Israel have become obsolete.
Olshanitsky argues that Israel's recent military engagements, notably the October 7th conflict, have failed to achieve strategic objectives, depleting the nation's deterrent capabilities without yielding additional gains. This sobering evaluation comes at a time when internal political strife, particularly involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, threatens to destabilize state institutions in a bid to avoid personal legal repercussions.
The article underscores a grim reality: since October 7th, casualties among Palestinians in the West Bank have surpassed those during South Africa's apartheid era, fueling concerns of escalating violence and the emergence of a third regional anti-Israeli front. Incendiary actions by Israeli settlers, allegedly supported by military forces, further exacerbate tensions and undermine prospects for peaceful coexistence.
Olshanitsky suggests a critical window remains for Israel to salvage its position by extinguishing the flames of conflict in Gaza and pursuing a political solution that could secure Palestinian independence under international auspices. He emphasizes the urgency of formalizing a ceasefire through United Nations mechanisms to preempt potentially harsher sanctions and international condemnation.
However, the researcher warns that Israel's greatest challenge lies in accepting terms that may not align with its historical narrative of victory. Unlike the negotiated settlements seen in South Africa, Olshanitsky contends that Israel must navigate a complex reality where unilateral terms may dictate the outcome, necessitating a strategic shift towards long-term stability over short-term gains.
Echoing concerns over Palestinian freedoms, Olshanitsky criticizes ongoing restrictions on movement, economic activity, and daily life imposed by Israeli military authorities, which he argues perpetuate a cycle of distrust and resentment.
As Israel grapples with these complex realities, the international community's role in mediating a sustainable peace agreement becomes increasingly pivotal. Olshanitsky's analysis serves as a stark reminder of Israel's evolving strategic challenges and the imperative for nuanced, forward-looking policies to secure a peaceful future in the region.
