10th Delphi Economic Forum<\/a>.<\/h3>\nIn his conversation with journalist Nikos Drossos, Ambassador Katz emphasised that the bilateral relationship spans every level of society\u2014from government and defence cooperation to business ties and civil society exchanges. \u201cOur partnership is based on values, common interests, and a shared perception of the region,\u201d he said. \u201cIn recent years, and especially since 2010, our ties have deepened and expanded across nearly every sector.\u201d<\/p>\n
Katz acknowledged that regional instability has posed temporary obstacles, but stressed that both nations remain committed to cooperation, including with Cyprus and other pragmatic forces in the Middle East. He pointed to the shared desire for peace and stability in a region marked by growing uncertainty and shifting alliances.<\/p>\n
The ambassador discussed the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas, extending to Iranian-backed groups, noting that Israel is emerging stronger but remains vigilant against destabilizing actors. \u201cWe have been at war for a year and a half\u2014a war imposed on us by Hamas. Strategically, we\u2019ve managed to push back Iran and its proxies, but the region still faces major threats,\u201d Katz said.<\/p>\n
He criticised Turkey\u2019s role in the region, accusing it of supporting radical Sunni groups and playing a destabilizing role in Syria. \u201cFrom our perspective, Turkey is not acting constructively at this time. We hope this changes, but for now, the situation remains concerning,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
On energy cooperation, Katz highlighted the importance of the Great Sea Interconnector project, which will link the electricity grids of Israel, Cyprus, and Greece. He called the project both economically and geopolitically significant, as it represents a tangible step toward regional integration and energy security.<\/p>\n
Regarding developments in Syria, Katz welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, describing it as a setback for Iran\u2019s regional ambitions. However, he warned that the new leadership\u2014a coalition with jihadist origins\u2014poses risks of its own. \u201cRadical elements cannot be judged by their appearances alone,\u201d he cautioned, emphasising the need to protect Syria\u2019s minority communities, including Kurds, Druze, Christians, and Alawites.<\/p>\n
On Gaza, Katz reiterated Israel\u2019s unwavering war aims: the release of hostages, the dismantling of Hamas\u2019 military and political infrastructure, and the elimination of threats to Israeli civilians. \u201cIf Hamas disarms and its leadership leaves Gaza, we can begin discussing the future. If not, the war will continue until our goals are achieved,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The interview offered a candid look into Israel\u2019s strategic outlook and its expectations for cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.<\/p>\n