A Share of the Blame: External Pressures and Vulnerabilities in Israel's Defence

In his recent article for The Australian Jewish News, Michael Scott, Founder of the 2023 Foundation, critically examines the external forces that have weakened Israel’s defences in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Scott argues that the intense international criticism—especially from organizations like the United Nations and key political leaders—has created vulnerabilities within Israel’s security strategy, which Hamas exploited during the deadly assault.

Scott discusses the Gaza security barrier, a vital line of defence for southern Israel, and how external pressures led Israel to compromise its security measures in the name of political optics. One key decision was allowing an increase in the number of Gazans permitted to work in Israel, which provided Hamas with invaluable insider knowledge of Israel’s defences. The tragic results of this were seen in the October 7 attack, where over 5,000 rockets were launched, and multiple breaches of the barrier allowed terrorists to carry out horrific attacks on Israeli civilians.

Scott’s article calls for the global community to reassess its narratives and stop prioritizing political correctness over Israel’s right to self-defence. He also demands accountability for the external actors whose rhetoric and actions have contributed to Israel’s vulnerabilities, urging a stronger commitment to supporting Israel's security measures. The full article was published on January 13, 2025, in The Australian Jewish News.