MESOP MIDEAST WATCH BACKGROUNDER: The Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) Israel – Submitted Strategic Analysis for Israel 2023 to the President of Israel
Researchers from the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), headed by INSS Executive Director Prof. Manuel Trajtenberg and INSS Managing Director Maj. Gen. (res.) Tamir Hayman, submitted Strategic Analysis for Israel 2023 to the President of Israel, Mr. Isaac Herzog, at an event held at his official residence on January 23, 2023. This document serves as a comprehensive analysis of Israel’s strategic environment from the perspective of national security, focusing on the current threats and potential opportunities, and includes a series of policy recommendations for decision makers.
President of Israel Mr. Isaac Herzog: “Your report describes regional shifts, military and political, but also shows optimism and hope. At the present time, the regional understanding is emerging that the future of the Middle East is to a large extent a future of partnerships. Regarding the Iranian threat and its dangerous proxies in the region, cooperation with our friends likewise is vital – not only for the citizens of Israel, but for all residents of the Middle East. This is a foremost regional interest.

However, an especially concerning arena is what the report calls “the internal arena.” The security of the State of Israel is closely tied to its national resilience. We are in a particularly dangerous time of crisis and internal conflict, and we have the ability to deal with the situation and contain the deepest differences of opinion without giving up on our own beliefs. Bridging the gaps, including the political divides, is perhaps the most important step in preserving the State of Israel’s security, stability, and prosperity. Thank you for your professional and dedicated work in preparing this report, which projects straightforward, frank concern for the state, its citizens, and its residents.”
INSS Managing Director Maj. Gen. (res.) Tamir Hayman: “Israel’s national security balance sheet at the beginning of 2023 is stable and positive. Israel is stronger than its enemies both in terms of its military force and in terms of its international standing. Currently its internal social resilience is also strong relative to its adversaries. However, 2023 confronts us with a series of challenges that could upset this balance sheet. First and foremost is the risk to social resilience, and to the system of checks and balances in Israeli democracy. In the geostrategic sphere, we identified the special relationship with the US as the most significant challenge facing decision makers – this is a highly significant element that anchors Israel’s security concept, and any harm to it would directly influence Israel’s ability to cope with the other national security arenas. The deepening social polarization in Israel is expected to make it harder for Israel to cope with the external threats. The recommendations that we present aim not only to reflect the map of threats but also to propose ways of coping and emphasizing strategic opportunities that should not be missed.”