A complete Israeli withdrawal, followed by a feasible reconstruction plan, temporary government, and a pathway to a Palestinian state, would be the best scenario to reach permanent peace

The Gaza war presents an extraordinary threat to regional security. Any plan to end the conflict must ensure a better future not only for Palestinians and Israelis but all the peoples of the region.

Netanyahu and his right-wing government have gone beyond their stated aims to remove Hamas and have destroyed Gaza in an onslaught against its people

A diplomatic initiative led by US envoy Amos Hochstein to separate Israeli and Hezbollah "Radwan" special forces appears to be falling short, and time is running out

The Lebanese armed group is trained and equipped much better than Hamas

Jewish supremacy and democracy, two principles that portend Israel's identity, have been increasingly at odds and populists have made their choice as to which of the two they view as more important

The revised Gaza agreement, presented by Hamas and seen by Al Majalla, stipulates "lifting the siege" and insists on Israel's withdrawal, a permanent ceasefire, UNRWA role and reconstruction

A ballooning budget, a widening deficit, rising inflation, a falling currency, and a ratings agency downgrade have given some cause for concern, yet the fundamentals remain sturdy.