This marks the beginning of a new chapter in ongoing confrontations between Israel and its neighbours — whether in the Palestinian territories, Lebanon, or Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems intent on ignoring international and regional calls to de-escalate, as recent statements suggest he is considering a ground invasion of Southern Lebanon. This raises fears that Israeli forces may once again march on Beirut, recalling the invasion of 1982.

Given the current state of volatility in the Middle East, influential international actors, particularly the United States, must step in to stop Netanyahu’s government from using aggressive tactics against its adversaries — Hamas, Hizbullah, and the Houthis — in order to prevent further regional destabilisation. Such intervention is crucial to avoid a devastating humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, which is already experiencing the largest displacement in its history. Thus far, the US has done little to halt what appears to be a one-sided escalation, as Hizbullah and Hamas’ military capabilities have been significantly degraded by Israeli airstrikes. Meanwhile, recent American statements have offered little more than expressions of support for Israel’s hallowed right to defend itself against existential threats.

The increasingly dangerous trajectory of events in the Middle East raises the spectre of uncontrollable escalation. Should Iran retaliate for attacks on its proxy networks in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, the situation could spiral into a full-scale regional war. The greatest danger lies in Israel’s unbridled confidence, bolstered by its technological and military superiority, and practically unchecked by any external pressure. This gives Israel a free hand to conduct destructive operations, not only in Gaza and the West Bank but also in Lebanon.

It is not enough for President Biden to call for a permanent ceasefire or indicate his knowledge of a limited operation in southern Lebanon. The situation has deteriorated to a point that requires decisive US intervention to prevent a catastrophic conflagration that threatens to engulf the entire Middle East.

In this context, Egyptian President Abdel- Fattah Al-Sisi has consistently warned that the developments of the past decades have brought the region to a historic crossroads. He emphasised the need for caution and deep consideration before making decisions, noting that Egypt’s foreign policy is based on balance, moderation, and constructive engagement to resolve crises rather than escalate them — efforts aimed at avoiding threats to regional security.

Al-Sisi’s vision stresses that the region’s countries have shared interests that should not conflict with each other. He emphasised the importance of strategic dialogue among these nations to foster development and maximise the benefits of their collective resources.

Last week, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty addressed the United Nations, stating that the main obstacle to a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages is the Israeli government’s lack of willingness to act. He warned of the risk of dragging the entire region into a full-scale war, remarking that “the region is already on edge, and escalation continues. Unfortunately, we are witnessing a lack of serious international action to prevent a total confrontation.”

Abdelatty further criticised the international community’s failure to intervene, noting that this inaction “puts global security and peace at risk, particularly as there is widespread frustration and anger across the Arab world, including Egypt, over the double standards and disregard for international law. The notion that a state can act above the law, with impunity for war crimes, is unacceptable and must not be tolerated.”

This shared vision, which Egypt holds alongside other regional countries, is aimed primarily at stopping the bloodshed, protecting rights, and opening the door to dialogue and negotiation. It is unacceptable to destroy entire societies in the name of securing Israel’s safety, through brutal measures that violate international treaties and conventions, with no accountability for war crimes. This only perpetuates a cycle of violence, fuelling extremist groups and sustaining an endless spiral of destruction.

Reason dictates that now is the time for Israel to move forward and engage in serious discussions aimed at resolving major issues — starting with a two-state solution — with the moderate Palestinian Authority. Western analysts suggest that this would be a diplomatic “knockout,” complementing Israel’s recent military actions, provided it halts further escalation and creates an environment conducive to reasonable solutions. Such steps would isolate factions opposed to a peaceful resolution and dismantle alliances formed around resistance to Israel’s occupation and its refusal to restore rights — a fundamental issue driving the region’s long-standing conflict.

Military operations have never secured lasting peace for Israel, and technological and military superiority will not guarantee security in the future. Oppressed peoples will always find innovative ways to resist and exhaust their enemies’ resources. Netanyahu must recognise this and abandon the illusion of reshaping the Middle East to fit his desires.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 3 October, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly