What’s Netanyahu’s planned ‘hexagon’ alliance – and can it work? | Explainer News
Netanyahu Proposes New Regional Bloc Amidst Middle East Divisions
JERUSALEM — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel announced plans on Sunday to create a new regional bloc in the Middle East, characterizing the area as split into “radical” Sunni and Shia axes.
During his address, Netanyahu articulated a vision for a “hexagon of alliances” that would comprise Israel, India, Greece, and Cyprus, along with other yet-to-be-identified Arab, African, and Asian nations. He asserted that this coalition would collectively address perceived threats from what he termed “radical adversaries.”
“In the vision I see before me, we will create an entire system, essentially a ‘hexagon’ of alliances around or within the Middle East,” Netanyahu stated, emphasizing the need for cooperation against “the radical Shia axis” and what he described as an emerging radical Sunni axis.
Despite his ambitious rhetoric, no government has publicly backed this initiative or its sectarian framing. Notably, Greece and Cyprus, both mentioned by Netanyahu, are members of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in connection with war crimes in Gaza, necessitating his arrest should he enter those countries.
Andreas Krieg, an associate professor of security studies at King’s College London, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of Netanyahu’s proposal. “The unnamed Arab, African, and Asian component may exist in the form of ad hoc security coordination, but not necessarily in a way that resembles a NATO-style pact,” he said. “The ‘hexagon’ should be viewed less as a formal alliance and more as a branding exercise for existing relationships.”
Understanding Netanyahu’s Concept of ‘Radical Axes’
Netanyahu appears to be attempting to replicate what he characterizes as victories against the “Shia axis,” often described as the “axis of resistance,” which is an informal coalition centered around Iran and its allies, opposing Israeli and Western influences in the region. Key players within this axis include Hezbollah in Lebanon and various Shia armed groups in Iraq and Yemen.
Assessing the ‘Emerging Sunni Axis’
While Netanyahu’s declaration of a Sunni axis garners attention, the reality is more complex. Israel has conducted military operations in several countries, including Palestine, Iran, and Lebanon, and has issued threats against other regional powers like Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Coordination among Sunni-majority states appears to focus on responding diplomatically to Israeli actions, rather than forming a unified bloc against Israel.
Omer Ozkizilcik, a non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council, highlighted ongoing cooperative efforts among regional countries. “There are growing common efforts against Israel, but these are not ideologically driven alliances,” he noted, emphasizing pragmatic responses rather than a collective Sunni identity.
Prospects for India’s Involvement
Netanyahu’s announcement coincides with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel. Modi has highlighted the strong ties between India and Israel, underscoring mutual interests in innovation, security, and trade. However, India’s historical stance as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement raises questions about its willingness to fully engage in Netanyahu’s proposed alliance.
Experts continue to caution that the shift toward regional polarization could complicate India’s relationships with neighboring countries.
The Situation in Greece and Cyprus
In December 2025, Israel hosted trilateral meetings with Greece and Cyprus, strengthening ties primarily focused on energy and security. Greece recently made significant military purchases from Israel, while Cyprus has also enhanced its defense capabilities. However, ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing relations between Greece and Turkey indicate a fluid geopolitical landscape.
Timing of the Initiative
Netanyahu’s initiative comes as he faces mounting legal challenges both at home and abroad. With elections approaching, he appears to be seeking to project an image of diplomatic engagement and resilience for Israel amid claims of isolation. Critics argue that this new alliance concept may serve as a strategic maneuver to obscure the growing complexities of Israel’s regional relationships. As economic pressures build within Israel, with rising unemployment and investment challenges, some analysts view the “hexagon” proposal as an attempt to navigate these turbulent waters.
As the situation evolves, the precise impact of Netanyahu’s proposals on regional dynamics remains uncertain.
