Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

States’ Strategic Behaviors with Cultural Underpinnings; a Case Study of Israel’s Foreign Policy Behavior during the Russia-Ukraine War

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Mahdie Bigonah 1
Yousof Qorashi 2
1 Master in Political Science , Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
2 Assistant Professor of Political Science, School of Law and Political Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
10.27834/CSIW.2410.1469.2.37.4
Abstract
Theoretical approaches to war typically characterize states as rational and economical actors that maximize benefits while minimizing costs. This materialistic perspective has frequently been employed to analyze the conduct of states, particularly those with assertive military postures, such as Israel. However, this theoretical framework has proven inadequate in specific contexts, notably regarding Israel’s stances during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, where it fails to elucidate Israel’s seemingly contradictory actions aptly. On the one hand, Israel has refrained from condemning Russia’s actions in the Ukraine conflict. Conversely, it has provided military assistance to Ukraine and embraced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s address in the Knesset. Such actions reflect Israel’s intricate strategic behavior. This article addresses the principal inquiry; What factors have contributed to the duality observed in Israel’s foreign policy concerning the Russia-Ukraine war? The response is articulated through a hypothesis positing that applying the theoretical framework of strategic culture, various factors, including historical, cultural, social, geographical, mythological, and Israeli political system, have significantly influenced Israel’s strategic behavior during the Russia-Ukraine war. Findings emphasize the impact of both fundamental and super structural elements. The article is characterized by a descriptive and explanatory approach, employing secondary data to support its findings.
Keywords
Israel
war
Russia
Ukraine
strategic culture
foreign policy
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Crisis Studies of the Islamic World
Volume 12, Issue 2 - Serial Number 37
Summer Quarterly
Summer 2025

  • Receive Date 31 October 2024
  • Revise Date 24 January 2025
  • Accept Date 11 February 2025