Self-inflicted solitude: the making of Israel's retreat into isolation

Question (10 marks, ~150 words):

'Israel's isolation is no longer imposed; it is increasingly self-inflicted.' Critically examine this statement in the context of West Asian geopolitics, and discuss its implications for India's interests.

Introduction:

• Founded to escape isolation, Israel — through strikes in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Iran and West Bank settlement expansion — is recreating that isolation, now largely self-inflicted, with even the U.S. voicing unease.

How the isolation was made:

• A doctrine of immediate tactical gains over strategy; the Abraham Accords strained as Israeli conduct made cooperation toxic for Arab partners.
• Attacks risk making Gulf states collateral victims; West Bank settlement expansion erases the two-state basis.

The self-inflicted argument:

• Resentment even among cooperation-inclined states; blunt U.S. criticism; military superiority substituting for political strategy.

The counterpoint:

• Genuine threats from Iran/proxies mean part of the isolation reflects a hostile environment, not only Israeli conduct.

India's stake:

• Balancing Israel, the Gulf and Iran; energy security and a ~9-million diaspora depend on de-escalation and freedom of navigation.

Conclusion:

• The fix is not more force but political courage — reviving a negotiated two-state peace over permanent domination.