American Test: What Washington Wants from Israel - and What Price It May Pay? | Hanan Gefen

Brig. Gen. (res.) Hanan Gefen analyzes in a commentary article the American policy towards Israel, arguing that it is narrowing Israel's security freedom of action. He criticizes the American compromise with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, and notes the establishment of the 'Mecca Alliance' between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. He calls on Israel to erect an 'Iron Wall' and maintain its independence.

Brig. Gen. (res.) Hanan Gefen, in a commentary for Maariv, analyzes the current American policy towards Israel and its implications for its security freedom of action. He argues that the American administration is promoting a multi-dimensional approach to resolving the regional crisis, including economic dimensions, arms reduction initiatives, and international involvement, but in practice it is steering Israel toward a path where military freedom of action is narrowed. He points to an American pattern of compromising on substantive clauses as negotiations lengthen, giving examples: with Hamas in Gaza, attempts to advance rehabilitation before disarming the organization; in the north, conditioning the agreement with Iran on a ceasefire in Lebanon, which gives Tehran leverage; and with Iran, negotiations with a divided government that makes the Americans look ridiculous, with repeated promises about ending the talks on the Strait of Hormuz, alongside militant statements by the Revolutionary Guards. He mentions reports of a shortage of missiles and interceptors, and the establishment of the 'Mecca Alliance' between Pakistan, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia as a Sunni-Shiite message. In conclusion, he calls for erecting an 'Iron Wall' against pressures, while maintaining independence and the ability to strike enemies, so as not to become a bargaining chip in others' negotiations.