The surprise attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent “Swords of Iron” war in Gaza and its numerous and complex consequences are fundamental for creating a new security reality for Israel, based on security superiority, political arrangements, and cooperation with moderate Arab states.
The research program “Conflict to Agreements” focuses both on the challenge of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict and the opportunity to establish a coalition with moderate Arab states. This coalition would be based on security and economic concerns, aiming to promote a multilateral approach to a settlement with the Palestinians and curb Iran’s pursuit of military nuclear capability and regional dominance. The program challenges Israel’s current strategy of preferring containment and maintaining the status quo over proactive engagement. It highlights the importance of integrated military, political, and economic efforts to advance political solutions. The research, which forms the basis for insights and policy recommendations, carefully balances between assessing the threats facing Israel and determining the appropriate response, while also identifying opportunities; between comprehensive foundational policy research and addressing urgent issues, as well as between tackling present challenges and preparing Israel for future ones.
