Arab states see hawks ruling Israel no matter who wins vote, but still sense room for change

 

Observers tell ToI that even if new leadership leaves security doctrine and opposition to two-state 

solution in place, shifts in approach to Palestinians and regional diplomacy could change tenor of ties.

Much is at stake for Israel in the upcoming elections. Three years of war on seven fronts have sharpened concern among the country’s 10 million citizens over how the next government will shape foreign and domestic policies.

But Israelis are not the only ones closely monitoring the outcome of the first election since the Hamas-led invasion and massacre on October 7, 2023.

Across the Gulf and among Israel’s immediate neighbors, Arab capitals are assessing whether the 26th Knesset could usher in a new chapter in Israeli leadership and policy or keep in place those currently in power, and what either outcome will mean for Israel and the wider region. (Read More)