

A new U.S. president and the Middle East - with Tal Becker
36 snips Jan 24, 2025
Tal Becker, a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute and an expert in Israeli diplomacy, explores significant changes in the U.S.-Israel relationship with the new presidential administration. He discusses Israel's shift from deterrence to proactive strategies amidst rising Iranian influence. The ethical implications of hostage negotiations highlight a complex moral landscape. Becker also analyzes regional dynamics following U.S. foreign policy shifts, emphasizing the need for a hopeful vision balancing security and Palestinian self-governance.
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A Son's Sacrifice
- Tal Becker's son offered to swap himself for Gilad Shalit when he was seven.
- This highlights the deep-rooted social contract and sense of collective responsibility in Israeli society.
Israel's Strong Position
- Israel's geopolitical and security standing is currently exceptionally strong, potentially rivaling the period after the Six-Day War.
- This strength creates unique opportunities, but Israeli society must overcome trauma to fully capitalize on them.
Shift in Security Doctrine
- Israel's security doctrine has shifted from threat deterrence to threat removal.
- This shift led to significant setbacks for Iran's influence and proxies in the region.