The Painful Lesson: Defense Is Not Enough

Overview:

This article by John P. Walters discusses the aftermath and implications of the October 7 attacks in Israel by Hamas. Key insights include:

• The attacks have led to a significant shift in Israeli perception and response to security threats.
• The need for a more proactive approach to deterrence beyond passive defense strategies.

Key Quotes:

1. "The terrorist forces need to be contained, weakened, and destroyed."
2. "Passive defense is not deterrence."

What They Discuss:

• The impact of the October 7 attacks on the Israeli community, particularly in Kfar Aza, where the attacks caused significant trauma and displacement.
• The broader implications of these attacks for Israel's national security, highlighting the threats from Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
• The need for Israel to actively pursue deterrence, moving beyond reliance on passive defense strategies like the Iron Dome.
• Criticism of the U.S. policy towards Israel, suggesting it has encouraged a passive defense approach and hindered proactive deterrence.
• The call for a strategic awakening in America to recognize the need for active deterrence in partnership with Israel.​

What They Recommend:

• A shift in Israeli defense strategy from passive to active deterrence.
• The need for Israel to take more assertive actions to counter threats from terrorist organizations.
• A reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy towards Israel, advocating for support of more proactive Israeli defense measures.​

Key Takeaways:

• The October 7 attacks have been a turning point in Israeli security policy, highlighting the limitations of passive defense.
• There is a growing consensus in Israel on the need for a more active approach to deterrence and security.
• The article calls for a rethinking of U.S. policy towards Israel, emphasizing the importance of active deterrence and stronger U.S.-Israel cooperation in security matters.

This is a brief overview of John P. Walters's work from the Hudson Institute. For complete insights, we recommend reading the full article.