How Israel Will Try to Shape Biden’s Middle East Policies

Before U.S. President-elect Joe Biden assumes power in January, Israel will attempt to cement his predecessor’s pro-Israel policies in the West Bank and against Iran. Israel will likely pursue the least risky path to achieve both of these aims by focusing on expanding settlements in the West Bank, while using its political and covert influence to undermine U.S.-Iran negotiations. But should its fragile unity government falter, right-wing challengers will push Israel to consider more hawkish strategies, including potential annexations of additional Palestinian territory, as well as preparing more unilateral military and covert moves against Iran’s nuclear program and regional proxies.  ...