Strategic Challenges for Small States Under Powerful Allies

Small states often depend on great powers for protection. This support can make them strong militarily but weak in strategic planning. These nations often act with sovereignty but without the necessary restraint, as the costs are covered by others. This can lead to a belief that military might is a substitute for solid statecraft.

Israel exemplifies this condition. Its joint military action with the United States against Iran aimed to maintain regional dominance. However, this operation highlighted Israel’s strategic limits. While Iran’s situation deteriorated, its nuclear program remains mostly intact, and the regime still stands. Israel hoped for a new order, but it faces a more resilient Iran instead.

A recent memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran outlines the terms to halt hostilities, underscoring the constraints on Israel’s achievements. While Israel could fight alongside the U.S., it couldn’t dictate the terms of peace. This situation underscores Israel’s challenges, despite its military successes.

Israel has always advocated self-reliance, yet it deeply depends on American military support, including weapons, intelligence, armament replenishment, and $3.8 billion in annual assistance from the U.S. Despite this dependence, Israel’s leaders have maintained the narrative of autonomy, but the reality is more complex.