The October 7 Effect
By Gregg Roman ● Oct 7, 2024
On October 7, 2023, Hamas unleashed a devastating assault on Israel, launching 4,300 rockets in a single day and infiltrating Israeli territory, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 civilians. This morning, October 7, 2024, Hamas fired just 4 rockets, all intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome. This stark contrast underscores the seismic shift in regional dynamics over the past year.
Welcome to this special edition of the MEF Dispatch, dedicated to the one-year anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks. In these pages, we dissect the far-reaching consequences of that fateful day. We examine Israel’s military response in Gaza, which has significantly degraded Hamas’ capabilities, and analyze the complex challenges that persist, including the ongoing hostage crisis and the threat from Hezbollah in the north.
This special edition features 12 articles written exclusively by MEF Staff and Fellows, providing expert analysis and insights on various aspects of this historic event and its aftermath.
As we commemorate this solemn moment, we invite you to join American Jewish University’s Rick Richman, MEF’s Research Director Jonathan Spyer, and myself today at 2PM EDT for a live broadcast reflecting on the Hamas massacre. You can sign up to watch the live broadcast here.
Israel’s Complex Post-October 7 Landscape
By Daniel Pipes
Despite the initial shock of October 7, Israel’s policies show signs of reverting, questioning the permanence of change.
Why it matters: The October 7 attacks initially drove a strong, unified call for decisive action against Hamas, seen as a turning point for Israel’s strategic approach. However, this momentum seems to be waning, highlighting the tension between immediate emotional responses and sustainable policy shifts.
The big picture: The fierce anti-Hamas sentiment and aggressive rhetoric following the attacks quickly permeated Israeli politics, with leaders and citizens alike demanding robust military actions. Yet, as time passed, the security establishment and public opinion began to revert to pre-October 7 attitudes, suggesting a return to familiar policies and practices.
By the numbers: Initial polls showed overwhelming support for eliminating Hamas, with 70% of Israelis prioritizing this goal.
However, subsequent surveys reveal a significant drop in support for aggressive military objectives, with only 38% viewing the removal of Hamas control as a victory.
Public interest shifted towards securing the release of hostages and reconsidering military strategies.
What’s next: Israel’s challenge lies in balancing the need for security with the realities of political and public pressures.
The government must navigate these complex dynamics to ensure long-term stability and peace, while addressing both domestic and international expectations.
This situation underscores the ongoing debate about Israel’s strategic future and its implications for regional security.
Hamas-Aligned Charities and U.S. Inaction
By Sam Westrop
Despite evidence, U.S. authorities have yet to clamp down on Hamas-aligned charities financing terrorism.
Why it matters: These charities continue to operate with little fear of prosecution, undermining national security and enabling terrorism. The lack of action raises concerns about the government’s commitment to combating domestic Islamist networks.
Evidence uncovered: Investigations reveal these charities have received federal grants and collaborated with federal offices, while continuing to support Hamas. Recent reports show their ongoing ties to Hamas officials and extremist activities.
Next steps: Public pressure and legislative scrutiny are needed to change the culture within security services and halt funding to these networks. A comprehensive approach is required to dismantle this billion-dollar infrastructure funding Hamas.
Israel’s Crucible: Forging a New Security Paradigm
By Gregg Roman
Israel navigates complex threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran amid a changing Middle Eastern landscape.
Why it matters: Post-October 7, 2023, Israel faces an existential struggle across multiple fronts, challenging its defense strategies and regional influence. The outcome could redefine Middle Eastern geopolitics and security frameworks.
Strategic pivots: Israel has intensified operations against Hamas and Hezbollah, employing advanced technologies to dismantle tunnel networks and neutralize leadership. Economic and diplomatic strategies are also being leveraged to weaken Iran’s regional influence.
Path forward: Balancing immediate security with long-term stability requires innovative military, economic, and diplomatic efforts. Israel’s leadership must navigate these challenges to secure its future and regional peace.
Justice for Roey Weiser
By Ashley Perry
Roey Weiser’s courage saved many lives during the Hamas attack.
A hero’s legacy: Roey, a dual American-Israeli citizen, bravely saved twelve soldiers during the attack, a testament to his unmatched courage and leadership. His sacrifice halted a terrorist advance, protecting countless civilians.
Why it matters: Roey’s actions underline the ongoing battle against terrorism, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable across borders. His story serves as a rallying cry for justice, illustrating the impact of terrorism on families and nations.
Seeking accountability: U.S. courts must serve as venues for justice, allowing victims’ families to pursue those who support violence. Holding Hamas and its allies accountable is crucial to dismantling terrorist networks.
Click here to reach the Remember Roey Foundation page.
What U.S. Professors Had to Say About October 7
By Andrew Harrod
Some U.S. professors have faced criticism for their controversial remarks supporting Hamas post-October 7 attacks.
Why it matters: These statements reflect deep-seated anti-Israel and anti-Western sentiments within academia, revealing a troubling bias that undermines objective scholarship and influences campus culture.
Academic reactions: Prominent professors labeled Israel as a genocidal state, ignoring the complexities of the conflict. This rhetoric has fueled antisemitism and polarized campus environments, leading to heightened tensions.
Call for accountability: It’s crucial for educational institutions to foster balanced discourse and challenge biased narratives. Encouraging critical thinking and mutual respect is essential in addressing these divisive issues.
A New Middle East Order?
By Yossi Kuperwasser
Nasrallah’s elimination and damage to Hezbollah may signal a turning point in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Why it matters: The changes shake the region, potentially weakening Iran’s influence and shifting power dynamics. Israel’s strategic success could lead to a realignment of regional relationships and security frameworks.
Hezbollah’s challenges: The group faces confusion and weakened operations, increasing dependency on Iran. This situation presents an opportunity for Israel and its allies to capitalize on Hezbollah’s vulnerabilities.
Strategic implications: Israel’s achievements bolster its regional standing, possibly paving the way for deeper ties with countries like Saudi Arabia. The evolving landscape necessitates careful navigation of U.S. and Iranian policies to sustain momentum.
Denver’s Troubling Year: Pro-Hamas Protests Persist
By Ahnaf Kalam
One year after October 7, Denver continues to grapple with disruptive pro-Hamas demonstrations, straining its social fabric.
Why it matters: The protests, masked as social justice movements, are causing significant disruptions and financial strain in Denver, a city once known for its progressive values.
The big picture: Instead of fostering meaningful dialogue, these protests have devolved into platforms for promoting violence, affecting local communities and institutions.
What’s next: Events like the “One Year of Genocide, One Year of Resistance” walk-out are planned, highlighting the ongoing tension and potential for further unrest.
Progressives Outshine Islamists in Hamas Advocacy
By Dexter Van Zile
Progressive groups in the U.S. have surpassed some Islamist organizations in defending Hamas, following the October 7 massacre.
Why it matters: This trend highlights a shift where progressive activism in the U.S. aligns with narratives that obscure the violent actions of Hamas, potentially reshaping Middle Eastern discourse.
The big picture: By framing Hamas’s actions as liberationist, these groups distract from their own policy failures, mirroring historical patterns of legitimizing radical movements.
Between the lines: The narrative shift comes at a cost—ignoring the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics and the repercussions on local communities.
Israel Is Not the Vassal State of Any Nation
By Joseph Morrison Skelly
Prime Minister Netanyahu declares Israel’s independence from external influence, emphasizing its sovereign rights.
Why it matters: Israel’s stance against Hezbollah’s aggression underscores its commitment to self-defense, despite international pressures, reflecting a broader geopolitical stance.
The big picture: As Israel intensifies efforts in Operation Northern Arrows, it aims to restore sovereignty over northern territories, countering Hezbollah’s persistent threats.
Details: Despite calls for moderation, Israel prioritizes its security objectives, showing resolve in the face of foreign diplomatic pressures.
Reflections on Israel’s Year of Resilience
By Alex Selsky
One year after the October 7 attacks, MEF’s Israel director Alex Selsky writes about how Israelis reflect on resilience and the tough lessons learned in their fight for survival.
Why it matters: The past year has reinforced Israel’s determination to defend its sovereignty, shaping a narrative of resilience in the face of existential threats.
The big picture: Israel’s actions in Gaza, Yemen, and Iran demonstrate a regained strength, with a commitment to never repeat past mistakes and uphold the “Never again” vow.
What’s next: The focus remains on strategic victories and fostering cooperation with moderate nations, while standing firm against extremist ideologies.
Israel’s Security Depends on Ending Qatar’s Power in Gaza
By Benjamin Weinthal
Ending Qatar’s financial influence in Gaza is crucial to Israel’s national security.
Why it matters: Qatar’s funding of Hamas enhances their arsenal, posing a significant threat to Israel’s safety. Blocking these funds is vital to dismantling terrorist networks and preventing future attacks.
Qatar’s influence: Despite efforts to curb cash flow, Qatar continues to support Hamas through various channels. This funding has facilitated the creation of a vast tunnel network used for smuggling weapons.
Next steps: Israel must implement stricter measures to halt Qatar’s support of Hamas. An independent investigation should assess the financial flow to Gaza, and international pressure should be applied to hold Qatar accountable.
The Tribulations of Being a Colombian Zionist at a Liberal University
By Maria Muñoz
A Colombian Zionist at an American university faces prejudice and misunderstanding post-October 7 attacks.
Why it matters: This story highlights the challenges of navigating multiple identities in a polarized academic environment, emphasizing the need for understanding and dialogue amid rising tensions.
Cultural clash: As a Colombian immigrant and Zionist, Maria Muñoz experiences prejudice rooted in misconceptions about her heritage and beliefs. Accusations of “white privilege” and assumptions about her achievements underscore the complex racial dynamics.
Standing strong: Despite the backlash, Maria remains committed to her identity and beliefs, advocating for free speech and cultural preservation. Her story is a call for unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
One year after the October 7 attacks, Israel faces a radically altered security landscape. The Hamas massacre killed 1,200 Israelis, wounded thousands more, and shattered long-held assumptions about regional stability. Israel’s subsequent military campaign in Gaza has eliminated significant Hamas infrastructure, but challenges persist. Hezbollah’s continued threats from the north and Iran’s regional ambitions complicate Israel’s strategic calculus.
Our contributors reveal four key developments:
Public opinion in Israel has shifted, with support for aggressive military objectives dropping from 70% to 38%.
Hamas-aligned charities continue to operate in the U.S., raising concerns about terrorism financing.
Academic discourse in the U.S. has become increasingly polarized, with some professors facing criticism for controversial remarks supporting Hamas.
Progressive groups in the U.S. have emerged as vocal defenders of Hamas, surpassing some Islamist organizations in their advocacy.
These trends underscore the complex, multi-faceted nature of the ongoing conflict. They demand continued vigilance, strategic thinking, and a commitment to regional security.
The events of October 7 and their aftermath have reshaped the region. Understanding these changes is crucial for policymakers, analysts, and citizens alike. Your continued readership and support enable us to pursue our mission of promoting American interests and advancing Western values in the Middle East.
Thank you,
Gregg Roman
Director
Middle East Forum