The Sentinel: Middle East Policy

Guest Commentary |
Israel: The Middle East's new regional superpower and catalyst for peace

by Rabbi Leor Sinai

History is unfolding before our eyes. We are witnessing the emergence of a fundamentally transformed Middle East, with Israel ascending as the region's dominant power. Still engaged in a multi-front battle for survival and now in direct conflict with Iran, Israel is pioneering a new era of regional dynamics.

While global diplomatic strategies have traditionally relied on appeasement, negotiations, and agreements with threatening actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran, Israel has chosen a different path—taking its enemies at their word, especially in the aftermath of October 7th.

When a terrorist organization or authoritarian regime declares its intention to wipe you off the map and actively pursues that goal, the lesson is clear: believe them. There can be no negotiation over existence itself. History has taught us that the only reliable insurance policy for defending our right to exist is the exercise of military strength. This is the doctrine of peace through strength—a principle that those who haven't lived in the region, witnessed the terror, or spent nights in bomb shelters cannot fully comprehend.

The New Regional Reality

The people of Israel are not merely defending their homeland; they are defending the principles of the free world. This small nation—roughly the size of New Jersey with a population of just over 10 million—stands as a bulwark against the greatest threats to regional stability. These threats, by extension, pose challenges to European security and American hegemony in an era of rising destabilizing powers like China and Russia.

Israel's remarkable military achievements following the October 7th invasion, and its comprehensive campaign against Iranian aggression through Tehran's proxy network, have definitively established Israel as the region's superpower. This transformation represents more than military victory; it signals a fundamental realignment of Middle Eastern power structures. Breaking Free from Iran's Stranglehold

For decades, Iran has held the Middle East hostage, preventing the region from advancing toward an era of genuine peace and stability. The theocratic regime in Tehran has systematically undermined progress through its network of proxies, spreading chaos from Lebanon to Yemen. However, Israel's current position offers a different vision of what the Middle East could become.

Consider the evidence: Israel maintains peaceful relations with Egypt and Jordan, has normalized ties with members of the Abraham Accords (United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan), and stands on the threshold of potential agreements with Saudi Arabia. Looking ahead, there is even the possibility of Lebanon and Syria joining this expanding circle of peace—once freed from Iranian influence.

The Democratic Advantage

Israel's strength lies not only in its military capabilities but in its democratic foundations. As the region's only functioning democracy, Israel offers a model of governance that respects human rights, protects minorities, and operates under the rule of law. This democratic framework makes Israel a natural partner for the United States and other Western democracies in promoting stability and progress throughout the Middle East.

Unlike authoritarian regimes that rule through fear and oppression, Israel's democratic institutions provide legitimacy and resilience. This democratic foundation, combined with military strength, positions Israel to lead a regional transformation that could benefit all peoples of the Middle East.

A Vision for the Future: The Middle East Union

The potential for a Middle East Union—analogous to the European Union—is no longer a distant dream. Such a regional bloc could foster economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and lasting peace among member nations. Israel's position as the region's dominant power, combined with its democratic values and proven ability to make peace with former enemies, makes it the natural catalyst for such an initiative.

The key to unlocking this potential lies in removing the Iranian regime's grip on regional politics. The ayatollahs' ideology of destruction and their support for terrorist proxies have been the primary obstacles to Middle Eastern integration and prosperity. With Iran's proxy network weakened and its regional influence diminished, the path toward a more peaceful and prosperous Middle East becomes increasingly viable.

Strategic Partnership with America

Israel's emergence as a regional superpower strengthens rather than challenges American interests in the Middle East. As a democratic ally sharing Western values, Israel serves as a reliable partner in maintaining regional stability and countering threats from authoritarian regimes. This partnership benefits both nations while contributing to global security. The United States gains from having a strong, democratic ally that can independently address regional threats without requiring American military intervention. Israel's military capabilities and intelligence assets provide invaluable support for American strategic objectives in the region.

The Path Forward

What stands before us is a historic opportunity to reshape the Middle East for the better. Israel's position as the region's superpower, earned through defensive necessity rather than imperial ambition, creates the possibility for a fundamentally different regional order. This new order would be based on cooperation rather than conflict, economic integration rather than isolation, and democratic values rather than authoritarian oppression.

The vision is clear: a Middle East where democratic Israel leads a coalition of peaceful nations, where economic cooperation replaces proxy warfare, and where the region's vast potential is finally realized. The removal of Iran's destabilizing influence represents the final piece of this puzzle.

This transformation will not happen overnight, nor will it be without challenges. However, for the first time in decades, the possibility of a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Middle East is within reach. Israel's emergence as a regional superpower is not an end in itself, but rather the means to achieve a better future for all peoples of the region.

The new Middle East is taking shape, and Israel stands ready to lead it toward a future of peace, prosperity, and democratic governance. History will judge this moment as the turning point when the Middle East finally broke free from cycles of violence and embraced its potential as a beacon of progress and cooperation.

About the author

Rabbi Leor Sinai is a Global Speaker, Education Diplomacy Thought-Leader, and long-time Campaign Executive. Sinai is Principal of Sinai Strategies, a consulting agency motivating influential actors to collaborate towards advancing Global – Israel relationships. Sinai is a member of the Israeli Emirati Forum, serves on the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Board of Governors, and on the board of Atchalta—a non-partisan think tank advancing social cohesion and national resilience in Israel. Originally from New York, Sinai made Aliyah with his family in 2011.

The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group, organization or oursentinel.com. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.

Commentary |
From Holocaust Remembrance to Gaza: Scholars raise genocide alarm

Dorothy Shea, acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN, vetoed a resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza despite unanimous support from other Security Council members. Critics, including international scholars and rights organizations, allege Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide, citing widespread destruction, displacement, and dehumanization of Palestinians.

by Terry Hansen
Guest Commentary

Dorothy Shea, the acting U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, recently vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution demanding an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza." This veto was issued despite the resolution’s description of the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "catastrophic," and in the face of unanimous support from the council's other 14 members.

Ironically, in a speech on Holocaust Remembrance day, Shea stated that "hatred, dehumanization and apathy can lead to genocide...Atrocities like the Holocaust don't just happen'; they're allowed to happen. It is up to us to stop them."

Yes, it is. In fact, the U.N. Genocide Convention, ratified by the United States in 1988, requires nations to prevent and punish genocide.

... over 55 scholars of the Holocaust, genocide and mass violence released a statement deploring the atrocities committed by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, as well as by Israeli forces,...

Notably, on October 13, 2023, less than one week after the start of Israel's intensive bombing campaign in Gaza, Israeli Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies Raz Segal wrote:

"Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza is quite explicit, open, and unashamed....Israel’s goal is to destroy the Palestinians of Gaza. And those of us watching around the world are derelict in our responsibility to prevent them from doing so."

And just a few days later, nearly 800 scholars and international lawyers working in the fields of conflict and genocide issued a public statement titled, "Scholars Warn of Potential Genocide in Gaza." They cite the dehumanization and mass displacement of Palestinians, statements by Israeli officials, as well as the high casualty rate and "obliteration" of neighborhoods and families.

Finally, on December 9, over 55 scholars of the Holocaust, genocide and mass violence released a statement deploring the atrocities committed by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, as well as by Israeli forces, and warning of the danger of genocide in Gaza. Particular concern is expressed regarding statements by Israeli leaders holding all Palestinians in Gaza responsible for October 7. These scholars assert:

"Casting an entire civilian population as enemies marks the history of modern genocide, with the Armenian genocide (1915-1918) and the Rwanda genocide (1994) as well-known examples."

Yet the U.S. has repeatedly dismissed evidence of genocide in Gaza. Despite these denials, allegations of genocide have intensified.

Human rights organizations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch published reports accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, and these organizations are not alone in reaching this determination.

Amos Goldberg, a Holocaust and genocide researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, has also concluded that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide. Goldberg asserts:

"What is happening in Gaza is genocide because the level and pace of indiscriminate killing, destruction, mass expulsions, displacement, famine, executions, the wiping out of cultural and religious institutions...and the sweeping dehumanization of the Palestinians — create an overall picture of genocide, of a deliberate conscious crushing of Palestinian existence in Gaza."

Goldberg explains that, historically, most perpetrators of genocide have claimed they were acting in self-defense.

Moreover, the U.S. must advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, while ensuring that food, water and medicine can reach civilians without restriction.

Significantly, a Dutch investigation published in May in the newspaper NRC interviewed seven internationally known genocide and Holocaust scholars from six countries—including Israel. All found Israel’s actions in Gaza to be acts of genocide. The scholars interviewed include:

Martin Shaw, author of the book, "What is genocide?"
Melanie O'Brien, president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars
Dirk Moses, senior editor of the Journal of Genocide Research

The refusal of the U.S. to act, and its obstruction of efforts to prevent further atrocities, betrays the principle of “never again.” To fulfill its obligations under the Genocide Convention, the U.S. should acknowledge these findings and halt military aid to Israel that could be used to commit genocide.

Moreover, the U.S. must advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, while ensuring that food, water and medicine can reach civilians without restriction. In addition, the U.S. should support international investigations, including the work of the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

If not, history will judge this moment, and the record will be clear: the duty to prevent genocide was willfully ignored.

Terry Hansen is an opinion writer who has contributed multiple articles on Gaza, focusing on humanitarian issues, U.S. policy, and Israel’s actions in the region. He is Terry Hansen is a retired educator from Milwaukee.

Commentary |
A Bittersweet Arab American Heritage Month

Our culture is worth celebrating. But amid the immense suffering in Gaza, it’s hard to feel celebratory.

by Farrah Hassen

I’ve always known my Arab culture is worth celebrating.

I heard it in Syrian tenor Sabah Fakhri’s powerful voice reverberating in my mom’s car on the way to piano lessons and soccer practice during my youth. I smelled it in the za’atar, Aleppo pepper, allspice, and cumin permeating the air in the family kitchen.

Artwork: Kalhh/Pixabay

I saw it in the intricate embroidery on my grandma’s silk robe. And in the determination etched in the faces of my immigrant parents, who raised seven children in Southern California without relinquishing our rich Syrian traditions.

April is National Arab American Heritage Month. It should be a time to celebrate the contributions of the over 3.5 million Arab Americans who strengthen our proud nation.

... right now, it’s impossible to feel celebratory. My community is reeling from the immense pain and horror of an unfolding genocide ...

We have Ralph Nader to thank for consumer protections like automobile safety. We have the late Senator James Abourezk (D-SD) — the first Arab American elected to the U.S. Senate — to credit for landmark legislation championing Indigenous rights. Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, a pediatrician, first exposed the Flint, Michigan water crisis.

There are countless others. But right now, it’s impossible to feel celebratory. My community is reeling from the immense pain and horror of an unfolding genocide against the 2.3 million Palestinians of Gaza.

Palestinian Americans have lost family members in Gaza from Israel’s unrelenting bombardment and mass starvation of civilians. Adding insult to injury, Israel is using U.S.-supplied weapons to commit these atrocities.

Palestinian Americans — along with other Arabs — have also been on the receiving end of increased hate crimes, harassment, racist rhetoric, and discrimination, belying the message that they, too, are an integral part of this nation. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee received 2,500 reports of anti-Arab hate from October to March.

During this period, Wadea Al-Fayoume, a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy from Illinois, was fatally stabbed. Three Palestinian college students were shot in Vermont.

In his proclamation marking this year’s heritage month, President Biden was forced to reckon with Gaza. Instead of announcing a long overdue, permanent ceasefire and an end to U.S. military support for Israel, he offered empty words.

How can Arab American life and culture be celebrated when fellow Arabs are facing erasure in Gaza? Nearly 35,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza so far, including nearly 14,000 children. Thousands more remain missing. And at least 576,000 Palestinians are on the brink of famine.

Homes filled with family heirlooms and memories have been systematically destroyed. The ancient olive trees that symbolize Palestinians’ deep-rooted connection to their land haven’t been spared.

Arab Americans have emerged as a new and powerful voting bloc

It’s easy to feel despair. But what brings me hope is the new generation of Arab Americans organizing, marching, and working with other communities to demand a permanent ceasefire. We are reminded that dissent is the highest form of “patriotism.”

Despite attempts to smear and silence them for supporting Palestinian human rights, their efforts are having an impact. A March 27 Gallup poll showed a significant drop in American public support for Israel’s conduct of the war, from 50 percent in November 2023 to 36 percent now.

Meanwhile, Arab Americans have emerged as a new and powerful voting bloc. Spearheaded by Arab Americans in Michigan, hundreds of thousands of Americans voted “uncommitted” in recent primary elections in Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Massachusetts, and elsewhere to protest U.S. policy in Gaza.

This represents a real shift from the days after 9/11, when Arab Americans faced blanket demonization without any pushback. This is progress, although much more must be done.

We know we belong in America even if we’re not always treated that way. We need enduring collaboration between Arab Americans and policymakers, educators, and community members to defend our rights, create a more equal America, and promote more just U.S. policies abroad — starting with a ceasefire in Gaza.

Farrah Hassen, J.D., is a writer, policy analyst, and adjunct professor in the Department of Political Science at Cal Poly Pomona. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.