Netanyahu's Vision of Greater Israel: Beyond Territory to Regional Superpower Status
Daniel Levy analyzes Benjamin Netanyahu's strategic pursuit of 'Greater Israel,' arguing it extends beyond territorial expansion to establishing Israel as a regional superpower. Despite a temporary ceasefire in the conflict with Iran, Netanyahu maintains that military campaigns are ongoing, aiming for state implosion rather than mere regime change. The article highlights how the Israeli right leverages geopolitical fluidity during the second Trump administration to advance this agenda. Recent actions include the devastation of Gaza, intensified displacement in the West Bank, territorial seizures in Syria following Bashar al-Assad's fall, and occupation efforts in southern Lebanon. Key figures like Bezalel Smotrich openly advocate for expansion toward Damascus. Levy contends that while land acquisition is visible, the deeper goal is comprehensive dominion and strategic hegemony. This analysis underscores the disconnect between US uncertainty and Netanyahu's calculated long-term planning, suggesting that the concept of Greater Israel serves as a blueprint for transforming Israel's geopolitical standing through sustained military pressure and territorial control across the Middle East.
Wire timeline
Netanyahu's Vision of Greater Israel: Beyond Territory to Regional Superpower Status
Daniel Levy analyzes Benjamin Netanyahu's strategic pursuit of 'Greater Israel,' arguing it extends beyond territorial expansion to establishing Israel as a regional superpower. Despite a temporary ceasefire in the conflict with Iran, Netanyahu maintains that military campaigns are ongoing, aiming for state implosion rather than mere regime change. The article highlights how the Israeli right leverages geopolitical fluidity during the second Trump administration to advance this agenda. Recent actions include the devastation of Gaza, intensified displacement in the West Bank, territorial seizures in Syria following Bashar al-Assad's fall, and occupation efforts in southern Lebanon. Key figures like Bezalel Smotrich openly advocate for expansion toward Damascus. Levy contends that while land acquisition is visible, the deeper goal is comprehensive dominion and strategic hegemony. This analysis underscores the disconnect between US uncertainty and Netanyahu's calculated long-term planning, suggesting that the concept of Greater Israel serves as a blueprint for transforming Israel's geopolitical standing through sustained military pressure and territorial control across the Middle East.
The Guardian