Israel’s Strategic Approach to the Muslim Brotherhood: Regional Security and Alliances

Watan–A comprehensive study on the currents of political Islam following the recent developments in Syria has concluded with a special recommendation to the Israeli government. The recommendation emphasizes the need for Israel to lead a regional stance against the Muslim Brotherhood, which the study claims poses a threat to the national security of the state.

The paper was issued by the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security, a think tank affiliated with the Israeli right wing, which is considered a key source of ideas and proposals for the current Netanyahu government.

The study examines the slogan “And prepare against them” adopted by the Muslim Brotherhood and portrays the group as having a totalitarian ideology comparable to “fascism” and “Nazism,” arguing that it is neither liberal nor supportive of Western values.

The study claims that the Muslim Brotherhood uses elections as a means to gain power rather than as a commitment to democratic principles or the peaceful transfer of power. It notes that while the West supports and funds authoritarian regimes that remain in power without elections, these regimes are viewed by the United States as tolerant.

The paper also addresses what it describes as the involvement of Turkey and Qatar, stating: “Turkey and Qatar’s support for the Muslim Brotherhood enhances their regional influence.” It argues that Turkey and Qatar’s policies pose a threat to regional stability, including in Syria and Jordan. Turkey is accused of supporting armed groups in Syria, while Qatar is said to provide media and political backing to the Brotherhood through outlets such as Al Jazeera. The study notes that the Muslim Brotherhood is expanding its influence among Muslim communities in Europe and the United States and retains strongholds in Libya (Tripoli) and Gaza.

The study recommends imposing legal restrictions on the activities of the Muslim Brotherhood in Western countries and promoting liberal alternatives within Islam that advocate coexistence and tolerance. It also calls for warning Turkey and Qatar against their continued support for the Brotherhood and pressuring Turkey to change its military and regional policies.

The study highlights the need for international coordination to replace Hamas rule in Gaza with a viable transitional administration. Its recommendations include collaborating with Jordan and Egypt to address shared threats. Jordan is described as a key partner in countering the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood, with its primary concern being regional stability and the impact of the Brotherhood‘s ideology on its internal society. The document stresses the importance of reassuring Jordan through clear Western policies against the Muslim Brotherhood, Turkey, and Qatar.

Additionally, the study calls for legislation across Middle Eastern countries to prohibit recognizing the Muslim Brotherhood as legitimate representatives of Muslim communities. Conversely, it emphasizes the need to support tolerant regional regimes, such as the UAE.