2 July 2026

Israel Needs To Go Back to the Future for a New Strategy

Newsweek  |  Eran Ortal

The war in Iran has taken an unexpected turn, with Iranians, despite a resounding military defeat, managing to impose conditions on the U.S. and compel Israel to accept a ceasefire in Lebanon. This conflict, which began with a blatant violation of the November 2024 ceasefire by Iran's proxy, Hezbollah, became the focal point of pressure on Jerusalem.

After nearly three years of war, Israel finds itself stuck on three open fronts along its borders and isolated internationally, while Iran, previously on the brink of defeat, has emerged stronger and wealthier. The most serious shift is in Israel’s relations with the United States, as Vice President JD Vance's remarks suggest the "special relationship" might be over. Israel, once a "regional power" in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s words, has been reduced to a "mere vassal," with its right to self-defense now under discussion in Washington.

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