Ex-Shin Bet Chief Warns Israel Risks Apartheid Without Land Division

Ami Ayalon, the former head of Israel's domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet, issued a stark warning in an interview with FRANCE 24 regarding the future trajectory of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Ayalon asserted that Israel is moving towards a system akin to apartheid unless it agrees to divide the land with the Palestinians. He emphasized that military power has inherent limitations and cannot solely resolve the region's deep-seated issues. Specifically, he noted that while military strength is relevant against threats like Iran, it is insufficient for achieving long-term stability without a political horizon. Ayalon argued that a comprehensive agreement with the Palestinian people is indispensable for establishing lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. His comments highlight the growing concern among former security officials about the demographic and political implications of the ongoing occupation. The interview underscores the urgent need for diplomatic solutions over purely military strategies, suggesting that the status quo is unsustainable and dangerous for Israel's democratic character and regional security.