Arab Factor as a Part of the Iranian–Israeli Conflict: An Israeli Perspective

Abstract

Arab states, mostly Syria, and non-state organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah have been part of the Iranian–Israeli conflict. Israel stayed outside the civil war in Syria, without supporting the rebels or Bashar al-Assad and Hezbollah, which are Iran’s allies, that is, they oppose Israel. In Lebanon, there might be a clash between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly if Israel strikes Iran’s nuclear sites. Hamas is also an Iranian partner and an enemy of Israel. Yet the latter tolerates Hamas’ rule in the Gaza Strip for lack of a better choice.