On the occasion of Israel’s 76th Independence Day, INSS researcher Adi Kantor discusses with Maj. Gen. (res.) Tamir Hayman, executive director of INSS and former chief of the IDF Intelligence Directorate, about the significance of “Israeli independence” in the shadow of the October 7th massacre and the Israel–Gaza war. Together they analyze the current situation in Gaza, particularly in Rafah and Jabaliya, and discuss the importance of establishing an alternative civilian authority in Gaza to replace Hamas and hopefully bring about a solid hostage deal and a safe return of Israeli citizens who have been displaced from their homes in the Gaza border communities. Furthermore, they address Hezbollah’s current strategy in the north and the danger of Israel’s paralysis in response to this threat and the ways to end it. They also discuss the lack of a viable solution for the tens of thousands of displaced Israelis who are eager to return home. Finally, they focus on the crucial need for a regional alliance in order to effectively counter Iran and the threat of the Shiite axis.