Israeli report admits Gaza war leaves Israel isolated abroad and divided at home

According to the report, one of the key changes resulting from the Gaza war is Israel’s diminished global position. The report notes that although the ceasefire in Gaza, brokered under the framework of U.S. President Donald Trump, prevents further deterioration, it does not by itself improve Israel’s overall situation.

The report highlights that the Gaza war has also raised the significance of armed conflict in international relations. Many in the Western world, especially in Europe, had opposed the prominence of regional wars in recent decades.

However, Hamas’s success in gaining widespread international recognition of a Palestinian state, coupled with the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin achieves his objectives in eastern Ukraine, has amplified the importance of war, challenging the long-standing post-Soviet international approach.

The INSS also emphasized the growing influence of Qatar and Turkey in Gaza and the broader Middle East, which represents a notable shift with its own unique set of strategic threats.

Another key change is the internationalization of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The United States remains the central power influencing the conflict, shaping and limiting Israel’s tactical decisions. The deployment of international forces in Gaza signals a strategic shift in the conflict, though it remains too early to determine whether this represents a temporary measure or a fundamental change requiring Israel to rethink its policies toward the Palestinians.

Domestically, the report underscores that social and political divisions within Israel have intensified. Israel entered the Gaza war amid major internal disputes following Netanyahu’s 2023 plan to weaken the judiciary. Disagreements over the nature of the war, the hostages issue, post-war Gaza policy, and other matters have deepened societal rifts along political lines.

The INSS concluded that Israel must develop a new security policy aligned with the post-Gaza war reality. Given the fragile ceasefire and the ongoing uncertainty about the war’s end, Israel requires a comprehensive review of its policies, and the cabinet must issue a new strategy to allow the IDF to adapt accordingly.

The report also emphasizes the need to draw lessons not only militarily but also socially, focusing on Israel’s domestic resilience. Upcoming elections should prioritize future-oriented issues, rather than dwelling on past events. The shock from the October 7, 2023 incidents and the subsequent war should be used to create a new vision for Israel.

However, the report warns that elections are likely to remain focused on past events, dominated by blame and mutual accusations. This environment may exacerbate domestic divisions, incite provocative rhetoric, and increase internal tensions within Israel.