GPTT, Tehran, Iran – At a recent meeting marking the anniversary of the “Al-Aqsa Storm” operation, experts and analysts offered a sobering assessment of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader geopolitical implications in the Middle East. Discussions highlighted the enduring tensions and the complex challenges surrounding the region’s future.

Mohammad Khajouei, a prominent regional expert, pointed out that the extensive Israeli settlement network had left no unified territory for the Palestinian people. He further argued that in recent years, Israel’s project has been gradual death for Palestine, particularly driven by right-wing extremists. He added that the Palestinians’ patience had finally run out, particularly as the normalization of relations between Israel and Arab nations, like Saudi Arabia, proceeded without addressing Palestinian concerns. Khajouei also warned that Israel and the United States are likely to target resistance groups in Yemen and Iraq next, as part of their broader strategy to counter Iran’s influence in the region. Despite Israel’s recent military gains against Hamas and Hezbollah, Khajouei noted that these victories have not yet restored security to the occupied territories. In Khajouei’s opinion, the best strategy for Iran in the current situation is to avoid direct and full-scale war with Irsrael, revive a protracted resistance against Israel and manage the tension.

Allahkaram Moshtaqi, addressed what he described as a “trap of fear” surrounding the prospect of war, which he claimed had been deliberately spread within Iran’s intellectual circles by external forces. Moshtaqi also stressed the importance of greater unity and coordination within the “Resistance Front,” especially given the unpredictable nature of the region’s geopolitical landscape. He further explained that the U.S. political landscape remains hostile to the Resistance, as both American political parties compete to show their support for Israel. According to him, there is no appetite in Washington for restraining Israel’s military actions.

Hamidreza Kazemi, highlighted the deteriorating political and economic dynamics in the Middle East. He pointed out that economic imbalances have contributed to the region’s instability. He also cautioned against neglecting the human and social dynamics of the various resistance groups in the region, suggesting that their energy could be a catalyst for change if properly harnessed. Kazemi argued that diplomatic pressure on Gulf countries to move beyond a spectator role is crucial for achieving a lasting peace.

In the closing session of the meeting, participants discussed the importance of protecting political leaders in countries like Syria, where individuals often have a greater impact than governmental structures. They also explored the strategic significance of targeting Israel’s social capital, which is seen as a critical factor in sustaining its internal conflicts. Finally, the participants concluded that for long-term success, resistance groups must not only excel in military resistance but also in governance and nation-building. Iran’s timely interventions, both militarily and diplomatically, were seen as crucial for ensuring the growth and sustainability of the Resistance movement. The experts emphasized that managing hostility with Israel should not be confused with normalizing relations, underscoring that any military actions should be coupled with strong diplomatic efforts to defend them.

This meeting, organized by the Sharif Governance and Policy Think Tank, provided a platform for critical discussions on the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the wider geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.