FDD Morning Brief How are domestic politics shaping Israel's national security? | feat. Gadeer Kamal Mreeh
Jan 9, 2026
Gadeer Kamal Mreeh, a former Knesset member and prominent Druze public figure, offers valuable insights into Israel's national security landscape. She shares her journey as the first Druze woman in the Knesset and the delicate balance of representing diverse communities. Gadeer highlights the growing pressures on Druze populations in the region and Israel's strategic interests in southern Syria. She also discusses the implications of Turkish and Qatari influence, as well as the current political climate and the likelihood of Netanyahu's return to power.
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Multiple Crises Make Iran Fragile
- Schanzer argues Iran's regime faces multiple systemic crises: protests, economic collapse, and loss of credibility after the 12-day war with Israel.
- He sees the regime as brittle and believes international pressure could hasten change.
Gaza Reconstruction Faces Political Risks
- A proposed Gaza Board of Peace chaired by President Trump would include controversial actors like Qatar and Turkey in reconstruction efforts.
- Schanzer is skeptical that involving states linked to Hamas will simplify Gaza's complex reconstruction challenges.
Lebanese Claims Don't Remove Hezbollah Threat
- Claims that the Lebanese army disarmed non-state groups are treated as unreliable because Hezbollah remains entrenched in south Lebanon.
- Schanzer warns Israel still faces a serious northern threat and may need further operations.