Eyal Hulata is a man that Israeli decision-makers listen to, and rightfully so. He has a distinguished history in the Mossad intelligence agency and has since become the top national security adviser.
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In August, he traveled to Washington to consult with US counterpart Jake Sullivan on Iran and a "broad range of global issues and issues of mutual concern," as a White House statement described it. The two also exchanged views on advancing regional integration and normalization with the Arab world.
There is a lot of curiosity as to what those views are, which is why Hulata's assessment was heeded with close attention by top experts and policymakers during his address at the 21st World Summit on Counter-Terrorism held at ICT Herzliya last week.
He said that without our technological advantage and its associated industries, Israel would not be able to maintain its unique strategic advantage; that Israel must be prepared for all threats, and identify and neutralize them; and that Israel has many advantages that are only getting better.
He also mentioned the US-Israel Strategic Partnership Joint Declaration, which was signed by President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Yair Lapid during the former's visit to Israel in July. Hulata said the declaration reflected the strong ties between the two nations, even when we do not see eye to eye.
The security chief also stressed that the Abraham Accords, as part of which Israel normalized ties with Arab nations two years ago, must not only be expanded but rather the existing agreements must also be strengthened and encouraged more allyships in the Middle East.
Israel joining CENTCOM, the US military Central Command, was lauded by Hulata as uniquely important cooperation in defense and security in the region.
He also warned of the dangers of the Iran nuclear program; the Islamist republic's proxies; the need to prepare adequately for the future; the Palestinian Authority's inability to control the territory it administers; and Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah's increasing threats; as well as domestic challenges.
Hulata stressed Israel's opposition to the agreement, but noted that it would not oppose a "longer and stronger" deal; that Iran was unwilling to make concessions and would only do so if pushed into a corner; that Israel has voiced its opinion in Washington and has already seen a response; that the Jewish state is not party to any agreement with Iran, and as such, reserved freedom of action to protect itself, which was also included in the declaration signed by Biden.
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With regard to domestic challenges, Hulata mentioned the potential increase in terror attacks ahead of the Jewish holidays, and said that we are using our resources to reduce the threat. He also said Israel urged the PA to maintain security and quiet in the territories its control.
As for Lebanon, Hulata said Israel is facing the threat of Hezbollah in the north. He said a stable Lebanese economy is just as important to Israel, and urged a maritime agreement that would help with energy supplies rather than a military confrontation.
He also addressed the staggering crime rate in the Arab sector and the policy on the Temple Mount, where freedom of worship and movement would be maintained.
We face many opportunities and challenges. Israel's strategic balance is mixed but we will continue to maximize our situation, he concluded.
