Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a new national security doctrine on 18 October, formally prioritizing preemptive military action over containment, including preventive strikes against perceived threats and the establishment of so-called ‘buffer zones’ (occupation of land) beyond Israel’s borders.

The ten-point doctrine calls for maintaining overwhelming military and technological superiority, preventing adversaries from acquiring nuclear weapons, expanding intelligence and deterrence capabilities, and strengthening defenses against missiles, drones, cyberattacks, and border incursions.

It also defines victory as breaking an enemy’s military strength and confidence in its ability to threaten Israel.

The doctrine calls for increased military spending, greater independence from foreign weapons suppliers, expanded domestic arms production, and advances in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and space capabilities.

It also prioritizes new regional and international alliances, information campaigns against Iran and other adversaries, efforts to counter anti-Zionism internationally, and national cohesion rooted partly in Jewish settlement of the “Land of Israel.”

The announcement comes just nine days before Israel’s 27 October parliamentary elections, raising questions about Netanyahu’s political motivations.

According to Al Jazeera, analysts argue that the doctrine and accompanying map of regional alliances are designed to reinforce Netanyahu’s image as Israel’s indispensable security leader amid corruption proceedings, criticism of his handling of 7 October, and mounting political pressure.

Carnegie Middle East Center researcher Mohanad Hage Ali warned that the presentation fuels existential fears among Israeli voters while potentially paving the way for further territorial occupation, conflict, and ethnic cleansing under the pretext of security.

Opposition figures dismissed the doctrine as superficial and lacking substance.