If the World Spent Even 10% on Peace, Everything Could Look So Different

In an era defined by escalating global tensions and unprecedented military expenditure, the stark reality is that nations are pouring trillions into defense while neglecting the crucial investments needed for peace. As Colonel (Ret.) Adi Bershadsky points out, the world's annual military spending has surged past $2.4 trillion, fueling an arms race in advanced weaponry and strategic alliances like NATO.

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Investment in peace must happen in parallel to investment in war, not in its stead. In fact, only a strong country can truly pursue peace. Only a confident nation can take calculated diplomatic risks. Strength and peace are not opposites; they are partners.

Bershadsky's opinion piece, published by The Jerusalem Post, makes a compelling case for a paradigm shift. He argues that prioritizing peace, normalization, and conflict prevention is not a sign of weakness but a strategic imperative. Citing successful examples like the Israel-Egypt and Israel-Jordan peace treaties, and the Abraham Accords, he demonstrates that diplomatic agreements are potent tools for enhancing national security and regional stability.

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Alliances such as NATO unite 32 nations for mutual defense. That is necessary and legitimate. But how many international frameworks exist whose primary mission is to create peace, reduce tensions, build regional prosperity, and prevent wars before they begin?

The article powerfully illustrates the devastating consequences of unchecked conflict, referencing the staggering human and economic toll of the war in Ukraine and the ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. The author contends that true security lies not just in military might but in actively pursuing and investing in peace. This perspective, rooted in the security challenges faced by Israel, underscores the urgent need for a global reevaluation of priorities, advocating for a balanced approach where investment in peace complements, rather than replaces, necessary defense measures.

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In the Middle East, there are a few successful examples: the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty, the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty, and the Abraham Accords. Each proves that peace or normalization agreements are not a weakness; they are strategic strengths.