‘Greater Israel’ back in spotlight amid Iran war? IDF presents take over plan in Lebanon; Is Saudi Arabia next in focus?
Even as attacks by Israel and the United States against Iran continue, discussions have started around Israel’s alleged “Greater Israel” project. Israel has carried out operations inside Lebanon, aiming to target the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. Reports suggest Israel is trying to create a “buffer zone” against Hezbollah. This has led to questions about whether Israel is moving forward with the idea of “Greater Israel.”
What Is the ‘Greater Israel’ Idea?
The concept of “Greater Israel” refers to a proposed Jewish state stretching from the Nile River in Egypt to the Euphrates River in Iraq. This imagined region would include areas of Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Egypt, and even parts of Saudi Arabia.
The idea was first discussed in the 19th century by Theodor Herzl and is based on descriptions of land in the Hebrew Bible.
Is the ‘Greater Israel’ Plan Being Implemented?
Some observers link Israel’s strict control over the West Bank and its actions in Lebanon to this idea. In India, Jairam Ramesh claimed that the ongoing conflict in West Asia may be helping Israel move closer to its “Greater Israel” vision, while also reducing the chances of a separate Palestinian state.
Based on Biblical References
The idea of “Greater Israel” is often connected to biblical promises. It refers to a passage in the Book of Genesis (Chapter 15:18–21), where land is described from the river of Egypt to the Euphrates. This religious reference has influenced political discussions over time, especially in the context of Zionism.
Role of the 1967 War
The idea gained more attention after the Six-Day War. In this war, Israel fought several Arab countries, including Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. After its victory, Israel took control of areas like Gaza Strip, Sinai Peninsula, West Bank, and Golan Heights, which strengthened discussions around territorial expansion.
Current Situation
There is no official policy by Israel to establish “Greater Israel.” However, the idea has become more widely discussed, especially after the 2022 elections. In those elections, the Likud-led alliance came to power, and Benjamin Netanyahu became Prime Minister again.
In 2023, reports by Axios said that Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich showed a map in Paris that included Jordan and the occupied West Bank as part of Israel. Overall, while “Greater Israel” remains an idea rather than official policy, recent developments and statements have brought it back into public debate.