Of all the observers of the Arab Spring, none have monitored the current events more closely than Israel. The remarkable upheaval throughout the Middle East could dramatically change Israeli diplomacy and push the country toward reigniting the stalled peace process. Michael Oren, the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, believes that while dramatic changes are on the horizon, his country must remain steadfast as a representative of a stable democracy in the Middle East.
Oren joined Monitor Breakfast journalists on October 25 to discuss the remarkable events of the Arab Spring, the nation’s close relationship with the United States and the recent prisoner exchange with Hamas.
Michael Oren
Even though Oren is a noted historian of Israel’s struggle for peace and stability, he admits it is extremely difficult to foresee how upheaval in countries such as Tunisia, Egypt, and Syria will ultimately affect his country. “As historians, we have a saying: While it’s extremely difficult to predict the past, it’s even more difficult to predict the future.” Oren, however, can make one prediction safely: Change is inevitable and Israel must be vigilant about stability and security within its own borders.
The key to achieving security is Israel’s relationship with the United States. Oren told Monitor Breakfast reporters that the Obama administration has been “exceptional” in its support from both a security standpoint and as a diplomatic partner and ally. Even through the two countries have differed on ways to move forward with the Israel-Palestine peace process, Oren dismissed the significance of the disagreements, calling them “tactical differences” and adding that overall the United States is a firm supporter in the strategic plan for peace. “Together, we believe that a permanent and legitimate State of Israel, living side by side with a nation state of the Palestinian people, is the only solution for real security, and that the only way to achieve that goal is through direct talks.”
When asked if the recent prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel represented an opening on Israel’s part to further negotiation in the peace process, Oren dismissed the idea. “This was a hostage release. Hamas rejects the state of Israel and seeks not only its destruction, but the destruction of the Jewish people.” He added that even though the exchange seemed unbalanced in many eyes, the Gilad Shalit repatriation shows what is at the heart of Israeli society. “We celebrate life, while [Hamas] revels in death.”
Watch the Monitor Breakfast with Michael Oren on demand at FORA.tv.