Netanyahu Announces Push for Regional Alliances Amid Shifting Middle East Dynamics
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday announced plans to forge a network of alliances encompassing countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, aiming to counter what he termed “radical” adversaries. The initiative comes as Israel navigates a complex regional landscape, marked by ongoing conflict in Gaza and evolving relationships with key Arab nations.
Netanyahu highlighted India as a key partner in this emerging “axis of nations,” coinciding with the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi affirmed his agreement with Netanyahu on the “bond between India and Israel,” emphasizing the “diverse nature of our bilateral relations” in a post on X.
The Israeli leader also referenced existing ties with Greece and Cyprus, as well as potential partnerships with other Arab and Asian countries, envisioning a “hexagon” of alliances. He specifically identified two primary threats: a “radical Shia axis,” which Israel says it has actively confronted, and an “emerging radical Sunni axis,” previously linked to the Muslim Brotherhood.
This push for broader alliances occurs against a backdrop of strained relations with some Arab states due to the war in Gaza. Saudi Arabia has publicly criticized Israel’s actions, and prospects for normalization between the two countries appear to be diminishing. Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also been a vocal critic of Netanyahu.
Since 2020, Israel has pursued the US-backed “Abraham Accords,” establishing formal ties with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco. However, the recent escalation of conflict and shifting geopolitical priorities are prompting a reassessment of regional strategy.
Netanyahu, who is facing war crimes allegations from the International Criminal Court, has also been engaged in direct clashes with Iran, including a 12-day war in June 2025, during which the U.S. military targeted Iranian nuclear sites. These developments underscore the increasing volatility in the region and the urgency for Israel to solidify its alliances.
The announcement signals a broader effort to reshape the regional security architecture, as Israel seeks to build a coalition of countries aligned against perceived common threats. Al Jazeera reported on the announcement Sunday.
