Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently presented a map to depict perceived alliances across the Middle East. Analysts suggest that the illustration reveals Israel’s growing isolation under Netanyahu’s leadership. The map was unveiled during his first major media security briefing after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks—ahead of Israeli elections on October 27.
Interestingly, the map was not developed by Netanyahu. It was created by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, a think tank linked with Germany’s SPD party. The map, released in May, offered an analytical view of emerging regional alignments between Libya and India. Andreas Krieg, associate professor at King’s College London, interprets the map as more revealing than intended about Israel’s isolation.
Netanyahu aims to position himself as a catalyst of a new regional security order. However, since the map does not showcase significant alliances, it underscores Israel’s separation from major regional powers. Yoram Meital of Ben-Gurion University argues that Netanyahu’s attempt to portray Israel as a regional power is misleading.
Map Details and Reactions
During the meeting, Netanyahu presented a map titled “geopolitical alliances in the Middle East.” It highlighted alliances through color coding. The ‘Israel-UAE Hexagon alliance’ was marked in blue. Countries like Greece and Somaliland were marked as ‘friendly.’ Countries allied with Iran were shown in purple, covering parts of Yemen amidst civil strife. Lavender indicated Iranian-friendly countries, such as Russia. The ‘Sunni Diamond Alliance,’ consisting of Turkey and Saudi Arabia, appeared in dark green, while associated friendly nations appeared in a lighter shade.
Netanyahu labeled military actions against Iran as necessary. Krieg observed the map speaks less about Israel’s successes than regional resistance to its military pursuits. The map does not indicate new strategic gains, said Krieg, but reflects existing resistance patterns.
Netanyahu’s Regional Focus and Criticisms
Netanyahu’s recent security briefing focused on his regional policies’ successes, stressing military dominance. Krieg noted Netanyahu’s increasing ties with UAE’s networks of secessionist movements, a revival of Israel’s periphery doctrine.
Saudi Arabia views this as a threat to regional stability. Netanyahu initially promoted peace with Saudi Arabia but now presents opposing stances. He promised to dismantle the Iranian regime and dismissed concerns about West Bank violence. Security achievements from the past three years became central to his election message, overshadowing the cost of policies in Gaza and related failures.
However, his narrative faces domestic criticism. Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party criticized Netanyahu on social media for not achieving military goals, pointing to Hamas operatives’ presence in Gaza and Hezbollah’s renewed strength. Netanyahu’s opposition highlights the gap between his claimed military successes and Israel’s long-term security.