Orit Perlov

In contrast to the “victory” narrative promoted by Hamas, the internal Palestinian public discourse is much more diverse, including harsh criticism and intense anger toward the terrorist organization, as well as concern in the West Bank that “we are next in line”

Against the backdrop of the war in the Gaza Strip, mass demonstrations have been held for about a month outside the Israeli embassy in Amman. These demonstrations, led by the Muslim Brotherhood, pose a threat to Jordan’s stability, which could have serious implications for Israel’s security. How should Israel respond?

Egypt is advancing an initiative with Hamas and Islamic Jihad for a long-term ceasefire for Gaza; Israel is not directly involved in these talks. Although the chances of a hudna are slim, Israel would do well not to reject the Egyptian initiative and should, rather, enable the economic projects it includes

The Arab public in Israel eyes the sixth Netanyahu government with concern: the coalition includes nationalist and religious elements considered hostile to Arabs, and is advancing the overhaul of the judicial system, which stands to worsen the situation of the Arab sector and aggravate the relations between the Arab minority and Jewish majority in Israel. What should the government do to avert this deterioration, which would undermine Israel’s national security?

The West Bank is burning, and more and more young Palestinians are embracing armed resistance against Israel and do not accept the authority of the Palestinian Authority or its leader. Israel’s operational response – Operation Break the Wave – heightens the motivation toward additional waves of terror, and the PA apparatuses are not able (and barely want) to defuse the volatile situation. Chaos is on the brink, and the “day after Abbas” is already here. How should Israel extricate itself from the cycle of escalation that feeds on itself?

For the first time since the public protests and collapse of the economy, Lebanon will hold elections for its 128 parliamentary seats. Yet despite the desire for change in the political system and the concerns of Hezbollah and its allies as to their standing, it is doubtful whether the elections will lead to significant change in the Land of the Cedars