Defense Exports Drive Israel's Global Alliances
Israel's recent defense agreement with Greece provides significant economic benefits while also serving as a crucial diplomatic tool. The country has been expanding military partnerships with nations like Cyprus, India, and the UAE to counter its growing international isolation. This strategy has become its most reliable means of securing allies and influence.
The $3.5 billion agreement with Athens follows three years of conflict for Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu has outlined a "hexagon" of alliances including Cyprus, Greece, India, and two unnamed partners (likely the UAE and an African state), aiming to counter Iran and other radical axes.
These ties are reinforced by the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which would route through Israel and Greece, bypassing Turkey. Analysts note that partner nations' reliance on Israeli military hardware may suppress criticism in international forums, even as they back Palestinian statehood and condemn Hamas.
The deepening reliance on defense exports could entrench Israel's regional position while potentially complicating broader peace efforts. Partner nations may find their security dependencies limiting their diplomatic flexibility regarding Palestinian rights. For Israeli society, sustained arms sales could provide economic relief but may also reinforce a security-first foreign policy, potentially overshadowing political solutions to the ongoing conflict.