LETTERS: The current Middle East conflict presents the United States with a stark choice: continue its unconditional support for Israel's military campaigns or use its influence to push for a more balanced approach that emphasises diplomacy and regional stability.
Only by curbing Israel's actions and pushing for a diplomatic resolution can the US prevent this conflict from becoming a permanent fixture of its foreign policy dilemma.
The US, as Israel's most powerful ally, must lead the way in helping Israel find an alternative to endless war - a solution that safeguards the future of both Israelis and Palestinians and ensures long-term stability in the Middle East.
The Economist's special report, "The Year That Shattered the Middle East," provides a grim reflection on how Israel's ongoing war with Hamas and its broader regional repercussions could lead to a catastrophic spiral, not only for Israel but also for its closest ally, the US.
As the war intensifies, Israel's military approach is veering into more dangerous territory, leading to a conflict that could destabilise the Middle East for years to come.
Israel's current strategy is deeply rooted in a belief that military dominance can restore its power of deterrence in the region.
Following Hamas's Oct 7, 2023, operation, Israel embarked on an unprecedented military campaign against Gaza, decimating the territory in a show of force meant to incapacitate Hamas.
According to The Economist, the attack on Gaza and the subsequent expansion of Israel's military operations into Lebanon and Syria mark a shift in regional dynamics. The report indicates that Israel, under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is attempting to dismantle the so-called "Axis of Resistance" — a coalition led by Iran that includes Hizbollah, Hamas and other freedom fighters.
However, this approach may come at a significant cost. Israel's pursuit of "total victory," as Netanyahu calls it, lacks a clear political vision and is further alienating Palestinians, radicalising youth in the West Bank and Gaza. This could entrench the very resistance movements Israel aims to crush.
Founder and editor-in-chief of online news broadcaster Zeteo, Mehdi Hasan, notes that Israel's reliance on overwhelming military force often "misreads the political landscape," failing to address the underlying causes of Palestinian grievances.
He has pointed out that while Israel may win battles, it is losing the war for legitimacy and support among a younger, global audience more attuned to issues of human rights. And, as Mehdi aptly puts it, "Israel cannot bomb its way to peace".
DR RAIS HUSSIN
Founder, EMIR Research,
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times