Israelis See a Chance To Remake Mideast

Despite criticism over Gaza war, some see new diplomatic opportunities

- DOV LIEBER

Since the Hamas attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has dealt setbacks to its most dangerous regional adversaries. It has hobbled Hamas in Gaza, severely damaged Shiite militia Hezbollah in Lebanon and fended off missile salvos from Tehran while landing its own blows in Iran.

Israel's military operationsespecially its conduct of the war in Gaza, where local authorities say more than 40,000 Palestinians have died-have hurt the country's international standing. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for its prime minister and former defense minister.

But Israel's leaders say the military gains are worth the trade-off in reputational damage, and argue that the country's stronger strategic position opens the door for diplomatic gains as Arab countries look for partners to keep Iranian power at bay.

"For the first time in the history of Zionism, there is an opportunity for Israel to be a regional power," said Avner Golov, a former senior director at Israel's National Security Council, who is now a vice president at MIND Israel, which advises governments on national security.