Did Israel Benefit from the Suez Crisis?

The view that Israel did not benefit from the Suez Crisis of 1956 is a contentious one. While the conflict brought some short-term challenges, ultimately, the crisis had a significant and largely positive impact on Israel's strategic position, both regionally and internationally.

Military and Strategic Gains

From a purely military standpoint, the Suez-Sinai campaign was an undeniable success for Israel. The Israeli Defence Force (IDF), in a surprise attack, decisively defeated the Egyptian army in the Sinai. This victory, achieved within a mere 100 hours, showcased the IDF's strength and capability to the world, establishing a powerful deterrent against future aggression. The operation secured key objectives for Israel: the Straits of Tiran, vital for Israel's trade with the East, were opened after being blockaded by Egypt, and the threat of constant raids from Egyptian-controlled Gaza was significantly reduced.

International Relations and the US Alliance

More significantly, the crisis marked a turning point in Israel's international relations. Despite facing condemnation from the United Nations alongside Britain and France, the crisis paradoxically thrust Israel into the spotlight of the Cold War. The United States, while publicly disapproving of the invasion, began to view Israel as a potential bulwark against Soviet influence in the Middle East. This marked a shift in US foreign policy, moving away from its previously even-handed approach to the Arab-Israeli conflict. As historian Piero Gleijeses argues in his book "Conflicting Missions," the US began to see the strategic value of a strong Israel in the region. The Suez Crisis, therefore, played a key role in laying the groundwork for the special relationship that would flourish between the US and Israel in the following decade.

Strengthened Alliances and Regional Influence

The crisis also strengthened Israel's ties with France, another key player in the conflict. French support for Israel, both economic and military, continued and even intensified in the aftermath of the Suez Crisis. This included crucial assistance in developing Israel's nuclear program at Dimona, significantly enhancing its security. Furthermore, Israel's decisive action resonated with many newly independent nations in Africa and Asia. They saw in Israel a model for resisting pressure from larger, more powerful neighbors, enhancing Israel's prestige within the Non-Aligned Movement. This paved the way for increased diplomatic ties and cooperation, particularly in areas like agriculture and military training, further solidifying Israel's position on the world stage.

Domestic Impact and Long-Term Challenges

Domestically, the victory boosted the popularity of Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion and his Mapai party, leading to their victory in the 1959 elections. However, it also had its downsides. The war solidified a militaristic approach within Israel, with figures like Moshe Dayan, known for his hawkish stance, gaining prominence. Furthermore, the crisis inadvertently bolstered Gamal Abdel Nasser's standing in the Arab world. Despite the military defeat, Nasser's defiance against the West transformed him into a pan-Arab hero, further unifying Arab opposition to Israel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the view that Israel did not benefit from the Suez Crisis is difficult to sustain. While the conflict brought some long-term challenges, including a more hostile Arab front and an increased reliance on military solutions, the benefits for Israel were undeniable and far-reaching. The crisis cemented the IDF's military prowess, bolstered its international standing, particularly within the United States, and laid the foundation for its enduring strategic alliance with the West. The Suez Crisis, therefore, can be seen as a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking a significant step towards becoming a regional power and a key US ally in the Middle East.