For nearly two years since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, the biggest question facing the Middle East has been: What combination of circumstances, pressures, or concessions can help the region break free from its spiral of violence? This week’s emergency Arab-Islamic summit, called in response to Israel’s unprecedented attack on Hamas leaders in Doha, promised possible answers. As regional powers gathered in Doha on September 15, there were hopes, if not expectations, that they would coalesce around a tougher line against Israel—and a formula for securing a cease-fire in Gaza. The summit proved to be a missed opportunity, as the participating nations did not call for specific military or economic action, but the gathering did plant a seed for what could come. Over the past two years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu determined that the best path to his definition of national security was to eschew diplomatic negotiations and pursue military means to secure both the nation and his own political future. This required Israel to bomb Hezbollah, Houthi, and Iranian forces in clear self-defense. But it also led lsrael to bomb Syrians and destroy the Gaza Strip. The government of Israel has presided over a policy that led to the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians and cemented steps to prevent a Palestinian state. It has also ensured that the dwindling number of living Israeli hostages remain imprisoned.
Are Arab nations going to impose real costs on Israel? – Atlantic Council
