2025 and the need for political solutions

The new year is groaning under the previous one's heavy legacy. Donald Trump is returning to power, Germany is holding early elections on February 23 and in France political uncertainty reins. Since Wednesday, the war in Ukraine has come closer for many Europeans, as the supply of Russian gas through Ukraine has stopped.

With no one knowing whether Syria will take the road of reconciliation and reconstruction or of bloodshed without end, the Middle East has become even more unpredictable. Israel has regained its power of deterrence, which Hamas' rampage appeared to have destroyed. Its often-criminal behavior, though, shows that Israel believes its survival depends on military dominance and the elimination of every possible danger.

This, however, cannot be maintained for ever. The day after in the Middle East (as in the Russia-Ukraine clash), if and when it comes, will...