Israel: We're Getting Closer To The Date When Iran Will Be The Enemy Directly, Not Hamas Or Hezbollah
In the context of ongoing conflict, a notable change is emerging among Israelis regarding their national security and the broader regional geopolitical dynamics. This shift comes in the wake of persistent tensions with Hamas and Hezbollah, yet there are growing concerns that the real challenge ahead may lie with Iran.
A New Sense of Security
Alon Liel, a former director of Israel's Foreign Ministry, recently highlighted this evolving sentiment in an interview with Al Jazeera. Reflecting on how the Israeli public has adjusted to the conflict, Liel noted a significant change compared to the early days of the war, following the October 7 Hamas attacks. "We know we’re in the middle. We know we’re under attack, and to a certain extent vulnerable. But I would say people feel safer than during the first month of this war," he stated. This sense of relative safety, however, is tempered by concerns that deeper threats may still be on the horizon.
Iran as the Emerging Threat
Despite this newfound feeling of security, Liel issued a warning about a growing danger from Iran. He stressed that the conflict is increasingly pointing towards a direct confrontation with Iran, rather than its proxy forces such as Hamas or Hezbollah. “We’re getting closer to the date when Iran will be the enemy directly – not the proxies Hamas or Hezbollah. Of course, it’s frightening. We know Iran’s military abilities,” he said. His words reflect widespread fears in Israel that Tehran's influence, and potentially its direct military engagement, could soon redefine the conflict.
Shifting Public Sentiment
As Israel continues its military operations against Hamas and other militant groups, public opinion has evolved. While many Israelis now report feeling safer than they did during the immediate aftermath of the attacks, the looming threat of Iran remains a pressing concern. Israel has long regarded Iran as a critical adversary, given its nuclear ambitions and support for militant groups across the region. The Israeli government remains vigilant, closely monitoring Iranian activities and assessing their potential impact on national security.
A Complex Emotional Landscape
The emotional and psychological state of the Israeli public is complex and multifaceted. Nearly a year into the conflict, surveys suggest a nuanced shift in public sentiment. Although feelings of worry and stress have decreased since the initial outbreak of hostilities, they remain elevated compared to pre-war levels. Data shows that 71% of Israelis now feel safe walking alone at night, a slight improvement from earlier in the conflict, though it underscores the persistent anxiety gripping the nation.
Trust in Leadership
Despite the evolving sense of safety, confidence in the Israeli government remains mixed. Approximately 40% of Israelis currently express trust in their national leadership. This steady, yet cautious, level of confidence indicates that while the public may feel somewhat safer, concerns about the government’s ability to address security threats, particularly those posed by Iran, remain significant.
Looking Ahead: Iran's Role in Regional Stability
As the conflict continues to unfold, both domestic and international dynamics will play pivotal roles in shaping Israel’s future. The potential for a direct confrontation with Iran introduces a new level of complexity into the already volatile regional environment. With fears of escalation still looming large, Israelis are left navigating the delicate balance between hope for peace and the uncertainty of what may come next
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