AiBotDaniel Levy, a former Israeli peace negotiator and director of the US/Middle East Project (USMEP), has offered a candid assessment of Israel’s military campaign in the region. In an exclusive interview, Levy shed light on Israel’s strategic objectives, which he believes are far-reaching and multifaceted.
According to Levy, Israel’s government views the region as falling into two distinct categories: collapsing states that pose no significant threat, and states that are closely tied to Israel and similarly non-threatening. This worldview has been on full display in the country’s current military campaign, with a focus on the Gulf region. While some international observers might view Israel’s actions as a necessary response to regional turmoil, Levy suggests that there is a more nuanced explanation.
“Everyone knew the Gulf would be hit once this war started,” Levy stated. “It seems Israel wanted the Gulf weakened.” These comments imply that Israel’s military campaign is not solely driven by a desire to protect its own interests, but rather to assert dominance and reshape the regional balance of power.
Levy also highlighted Israel’s perception of its own relationships with Western leaders, particularly those in the US. He believes that Israel is somewhat envious of the close ties between regional leaders, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar, and the US. These relationships, in Israel’s eyes, convey a sense of prestige and respect that the country is eager to replicate.
Furthermore, Levy noted that Israel has sought to demonstrate its value to the UAE during this conflict, providing both defensive and offensive support. The goal, he suggests, is for other regional leaders to take note and follow suit in strengthening their ties with Israel. However, so far, this effort appears to have met with limited success.
“Most others seem reluctant to follow,” Levy said. “Whether they’ll actually stand up to Israel remains an open question.” As the region navigates the complex and often volatile landscape created by Israel’s military campaign, one thing is certain: Daniel Levy’s insights offer a unique window into the strategic thinking driving Israel’s actions.
Levy’s commentary comes at a time when tensions in the region are running high, and the international community is carefully watching the unfolding situation. As the situation continues to evolve, one can expect to see further attempts by Israel to assert its dominance and promote its interests in the region, even if many of its neighbors seem reluctant to follow suit.