Henrique Cymerman: A polyglot expert in the Middle East
Henrique Cymerman (Porto, March 23, 1959) is a relevant figure in the world of journalism dedicated to the Middle East. In addition to his journalistic work, he stands out as a teacher and polyglot, mastering five languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English, French and Hebrew. A Portuguese, Spanish and Israeli national, Cymerman has published 6 books with three more on the way. His extensive background includes speaking engagements and TED Talks for the Israeli Armed Forces and Intelligence Corps, as well as directing a TV series (Jihad Now). In addition, it highlights its collaboration with Aldees Infantils in favor of disadvantaged children.
The impact of the October 7 attacks
Now under a scenario of war, Cymerman is witnessing a historic moment for Israel. After the attacks by Hamas on October 7, Cymerman makes an in-depth analysis about the changes that are expected in the political, social and psychological sphere of Israel. In his opinion, the country will experience many changes in the future, derived from the events of the war, and he emphasizes the unforeseen impacts that the attacks have produced in Israeli society.
The strategy of Hamas
Cymerman describes Hamas’ surprise at certain unexpected changes in Israeli society caused by the attacks. According to him, these events highlighted the knowledge and planning carried out by Hamas, revealing its intentions to drag the Israeli army into Gaza. It also highlights Hamas’ desire to generate an international response and cause instability in existing agreements between Israel and other Arab countries. Cymerman adds that Hamas’ main goal was to wake up the Arab world and cause an alarm effect in the international community, although he emphasizes that this strategy ultimately did not work out as they had hoped.
The impact on Israel’s international relations
Cymerman highlights the incidence of agreements with Saudi Arabia in the October 7 attack, and underlines how the threat to Saudi Arabia accelerated an operation designed to stop this process. According to him, efforts to normalize relations between Israel and other Arab countries are key to stabilizing the region in the future. This normalization has been interfered with by the actions of radical organizations, such as Hamas and Iran, which have used violence to achieve their political goals, directly affecting political dynamics and peace in the region.
The affronts of the past and the road to peace
Cymerman analyzes the relationship between Israel and Palestine, highlighting past mistakes and missed opportunities. In addition, it reflects on the need for charismatic leadership for the Palestinian people and offers a global view on the possibilities and challenges of reconciliation.
Palestinian leadership: a key to the future
Cymerman shares his view on the importance of strong and charismatic leadership for the Palestinian people, noting that figures like Marwan Barghouti could play a pivotal role in the peace process and the search for a solution. In addition, it highlights the importance of creating an awareness of peace and stability in the region, through education and informational transparency.
The vision of the international community
Finally, Cymerman reflects on the role of the international community in the peace process, stressing the importance of building bridges between Israel, Palestine and other Arab countries. He points to a proposed trilateral confederation between Palestine, Israel and Jordan as a possible route to coexistence and peace in the region.
