The Resounding Triumph of Hamas: A Paradigm Shift in Middle East Dynamics
The unprecedented operation carried out by Hamas in the occupied territories in 1948 on October 7, 2023, has been etched into the annals of history as a resounding military success. Although geographically limited, the operation's far-reaching dimensions and consequential impact hold immense significance, capable of reshaping the fate of many political initiatives in the region and recalibrating the prevailing power dynamics.
By: M.Sharifi
Diminishing US Influence in the Middle East
One of the pivotal outcomes stemming from the triumphant Al-Aqsa Storm Operation is the erosion of Washington’s sway over the region. Following the events of October 7, a clear horizon has emerged in the region, signaling the advent of a new era characterized by enhanced political and economic connectivity among independent nations, leveraging their regional and natural resources. Given the US’ historical track record of interventionism in the Middle East, these shifts serve as harbingers of substantial political and economic developments, laying the groundwork for growth, prosperity, and greater harmony among nations emancipated from the clutches of the United States and the Israeli regime. De-Americanization, therefore, represents a pivotal turning point catalyzing future geopolitical transformations. These changes are poised to shape political, military, economic, and security arrangements, propelling both present and future generations towards independence and collective security.
A Diversion from the Western Paradigm
In addition to de-Americanization, the aftermath of October 7 has witnessed a notable divergence of regional countries from the Western orbit. Arab governments previously inclined towards Western liberalism have succumbed to public pressure and embarked on a process of forging regional alliances, marking a departure from their previous orientations.
Increasing Convergence among Muslim Nations
Another significant outcome of the October 7 operation lies in the transformation of regional dynamics. Hitherto, the Israeli regime endeavored to propagate the myth of its security and military invincibility, deliberately fostering discord, disunity, and a lack of cohesion among Islamic countries through the manipulation of ethnic, religious, and proxy conflicts, thereby nurturing terrorism. However, the Operation Al-Aqsa Storm exposed the vulnerability of the Israeli regime's security apparatus to the world, shattering illusions and changing regional calculations. Today, the Palestinian cause has emerged as a unifying force, binding Islamic nations together.
A Deadly Blow to the Plan for Arab-Israeli Normalization
One of the Israeli regime's paramount objectives in recent years has been to normalize relations with Arab countries. Such normalization would confer legitimacy upon Israel, positioning it as an equal member of the international community. However, the success of the Operation Al-Aqsa Storm dealt an irreparable blow to the regime's regional aspirations, exposing its intelligence failures. This development assumes significance as previously the Arab governments were saying to their public opinion about Israel’s military and intelligence hegemony. With the intelligence fiasco witnessed during the Al-Aqsa Storm, this rationale has been rendered ineffective, resulting in the suspension of plans for normalization among Arabs and Israel.
Towards an Economic Union of Regional Nations
The Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, with its unique military achievements, has provided a golden opportunity for Islamic solidarity and the establishment of a united economic belt connecting the members of the Axis of Resistance. Tangible strides in this direction among Islamic nations ultimately give rise to a formidable economic bloc. At the very least, this strategy aims to cultivate stronger regional economic ties, reducing dependence on the West. It is imperative for Islamic nations to rally around shared principles, safeguarding the rights, interests, and security of their people and the region at large while upholding solidarity.
The Imperative of Regional Unity
The successive defeats suffered by Israel at the hands of Palestinian resistance in the 33-day, 22-day, and 51-day wars, as well as the Operation Al-Quds Sword, culminating in the momentous Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, have shattered the myth of Israel’s invincibility. This operation has dealt a severe blow to Tel Aviv’s military and intelligence apparatus, which forms a core pillar of its survival, thwarting US-Israeli plans to fragment Gaza and displace its oppressed civilians. Consequently, the machinations of Western powers have been rendered null, leaving the Middle East safe from their pernicious influence for the time being. In light of these developments, prioritizing regional unity and cohesion against Western colonialism ensures that the post-war era ushers in great benefits for the Muslim nations of the region.
