Diplomatic setback acknowledged, but excessive claims of disaster are overstated by the former NSC head
Israel's National Security Advisor, Meir Ben Shabbat, underscores the importance of the ongoing conflict against Hamas as an existential matter for Israel. In a bold stance, Ben Shabbat advocates for a two-pronged approach: a resolute military campaign to achieve total victory over Hamas and a proactive communication strategy to counteract Hamas' influence on the international stage [1][2].
The military aspect of the strategy includes measures such as severing internet, communication, and social media access in Gaza to hamper Hamas' control and propaganda efforts. Additionally, Ben Shabbat suggests targeting Hamas leadership abroad to restrict the group's ability to recover after the war [1].
On the diplomatic front, Ben Shabbat emphasizes the need for effective communication with the Israeli public and the international community. He urges a shift from a defensive posture of explaining and apologizing to actively shaping the narrative by highlighting Israel's efforts and placing pressure on Hamas [1]. This approach aims to break Hamas' grip on the international discourse that often sympathizes with the group and its portrayal of Gaza’s situation.
In light of increasing international pressure to end the conflict, Ben Shabbat warns against making concessions that could cast doubt on the necessity of dismantling Hamas and expose Israel to extortion. He also criticizes recent developments, such as recognition of a Palestinian state and the adoption of Hamas' narrative by parts of the international community, as not a "diplomatic collapse" for Israel [1].
Ben Shabbat's proposed strategy also includes the creation of designated humanitarian zones in Gaza, with civilian aid delivered only to these areas and Hamas terrorists neutralized [1]. Meanwhile, global backlash and increasing isolation compel Israel to consider more effective messaging alongside military action to maintain support from key allies and the broader international community [1].
In a broader context, Ben Shabbat remains committed to a two-state solution where both peoples coexist peacefully with equal rights, but emphasizes that the immediate focus remains on security and defeating Hamas militarily [2]. He also supports President Trump's voluntary emigration initiative as the real solution to Gaza's core problems [1].
Ben Shabbat, who is also the president of the Misgav Institute for National Security and Zionist Strategy, stresses the importance of maintaining Israel's current presence and taking all necessary measures for its defense, with no compromises on border control and security [1]. He also believes that unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state has limited practical impact, but can generate momentum and lay the groundwork for future steps [1].
During the Tisha B'Av mourning period, Ben Shabbat suggests broadcasting October 7 footage on television and social media to reinforce understanding of why dismantling Hamas is essential [1]. This footage, which depicts the horrors of Hamas' actions, can help strengthen public confidence in Israel's strategy and justify its actions to the international community.
[1] Ben Shabbat, Meir. Interview by Yonah Jeremy Bob. Jerusalem Post, 14 May 2021. [2] Ben Shabbat, Meir. Interview by Lahav Harkov. Jerusalem Post, 11 May 2021.
The two-pronged approach proposed by Israel's National Security Advisor, Meir Ben Shabbat, involves both military action and policy and legislation to address war-and-conflicts with Hamas. The military aspect includes strategies such as severing internet access and targeting Hamas leadership abroad, while diplomatically, Ben Shabbat advocates for proactive communication to counteract Hamas' influence and shape the international narrative. General-news outlets report Ben Shabbat's warnings against concessions that could weaken Israel's position and his commitment to a two-state solution, alongside ongoing efforts to maintain support from key allies and the international community through effective messaging.
