Israeli Consul General in New York, Ofir Akunis, voiced his main concern: a shift in American politics might jeopardize the historic alliance between Israel and the United States. He highlighted recent electoral victories by progressive Democratic candidates critical of Israel and U.S. interventions abroad as a significant sign of this trend. Akunis stated, “Some people seem to prefer the ayatollahs over the American administration.”
Akunis acknowledged that political disagreements within a democracy are normal, but preferring enemies over political opponents is a concerning new development. He expressed hope that the U.S. would continue its support of Israel; however, he emphasized Israel’s need to prepare for more independence given current political trends.
Israel has long established its capabilities in security with systems like the Iron Dome, which have been vital in countering rocket, missile, and drone attacks, particularly after the Palestinian Hamas assault in October 2023 plunged the region into crisis. However, greater independence does not mean Israel will rely solely on itself.
Alongside its alliance with the United States, Israel plans to strengthen ties with other countries. Akunis mentioned Israel’s expanded relations with nations like India, Greece, and Cyprus. These alliances form what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has termed a “hexagon of alliances.” This dialogue occurred shortly before the U.S. and Israel launched a joint effort against Iran.
Recent successes include normalization of relations with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain through the Abraham Accords, followed by Sudan and Morocco. Akunis noted Israel’s growing affinity with countries in South America, mentioning a positive shift towards Israel in Colombia.
The Israeli perspective also sees potential threats in the Sunni Muslim alliance, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have established a defense pact, and Turkey’s inclusion in a new mutual defense agreement raises concerns for Israel, partly due to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s hostile stance towards Israel.
While Turkey poses a potential future threat, Akunis underlined that Iran remains a priority. Despite Iran’s resilience against U.S. and Israeli ambitions, Akunis urges patience, noting the regime’s nearly 50-year history. He expressed confidence in the leadership of President Donald Trump, who has met frequently with Netanyahu.
Akunis advised a firm approach towards Iran as recent negotiations suggested increased Iranian influence over crucial trade routes. He was critical of Western voices that direct outrage at Israel instead of Iran, attributing this to a broader pattern of support for terrorist organizations in regions like Gaza and Lebanon.
He argued that regions like Gaza and Lebanon could thrive absent Hezbollah and Hamas, envisioning prosperity akin to the Emirates or Singapore. Akunis proposed restoring a historical “direct line between Beirut and Cairo,” drawing parallels with the Boston-Washington train corridor.
Overall, Akunis warned that continued preference for terrorist organizations over national well-being in Gaza and southern Lebanon could negatively impact the future of the Western world.
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