MIND Israel had the privilege of hosting a side event at the Munich Security Conference, one of the most prestigious forums in the field of national security. The conference brought together leaders, policy experts, and key stakeholders to discuss the world’s most pressing challenges.

The discussion was led by MIND’s President, Maj. Gen. (res.) Amos Yadlin, and moderated by Dr. Melody Sucharewicz, a strategy consultant and former foreign affairs advisor to the former Minister of Defense, Gen. Benny Gantz. The distinguished speakers included Dr. Ebtesam Al-Ketbi, the Founder and President of the Emirates Policy Center (EPC), and Ms. Hagar Chemali, a former Director for Syria and Lebanon at the National Security Council at the White House, who presented unique Lebanese and Arab perspectives.

The conversation examined how the recent war between Israel and Hezbollah could serve as an opportunity to turn rockets into olive branches. With the diminishing influence of the radical Shi’a Axis and the emergence of a new government in Lebanon, the current context presents a rare opening for progress between Israel and Lebanon—potentially paving the way for the expansion of the Abraham Accords.

Additionally, the discussion explored the prospects of normalization between Israel and Lebanon, considering the waning Iranian influence, as a foundation for lasting economic and political stability in Lebanon. The aim was to spark a meaningful dialogue on pathways to a future where shared interests and economic cooperation between Israel and Lebanon could transcend historical divides.

 Photos copyright :MSC/Photographer