Abstract
This thesis examines the 2007 Israeli bombing on Syria's Al-Kibar nuclear reactor through the lens of securitization theory, concluding that intelligence served as crucial audiences in legitimizing the operation. Building on the Copenhagen School's paradigm, which defines securitization as the process by which actors build issues as existential threats necessitating extreme measures, this study fills a critical theoretical gap: the underdeveloped role of the audience. While classic formulations focus on public approval, this study suggests a more sophisticated notion of the Political Intelligence Audience: intelligence agencies that validate and operationalize securitization moves. The concept contends that groups such as the CIA and Mossad serve not just as vehicles of state power, but also as engaged audiences whose perception of a threat converts discourse into policy and covert action. Using Israel's 2007 strike as a case study, the analysis shows how the securitizing actors: IDF and Israeli Prime Minister Olmert securitized Syria's reactor, despite the International Atomic Energy Agency's judgment of no imminent nuclear threat. In addition, the paper discusses the international community's quiet response to the strikes. The operation elicited minimal criticism or discussion at the United Nations or during following nonproliferation discussions. This silence, exacerbated by Israeli media restrictions, demonstrates how strategic concealment and intelligence framing influenced foreign perceptions of legitimacy.
School
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Department
Political Science Department
Degree Name
MA in Political Science
Graduation Date
Fall 2-15-2026
Submission Date
1-22-2026
First Advisor
Sarah Smierciak
Committee Member 1
Bahgat Korany
Committee Member 2
Mohamed Soffar
Extent
138p.
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval
Not necessary for this item
Disclosure of AI Use
Thesis editing and/or reviewing; Translation
Recommended Citation
APA Citation
Hassanin, D. E.
(2026).Securing or Securitizing? Unveiling the Role of Securitization “Audience” in Israel’s 2007 Bombing of the Syrian Nuclear Site. [Master's Thesis, the American University in Cairo]. AUC Knowledge Fountain.
https://fount.aucegypt.edu/etds/2660
MLA Citation
Hassanin, Dunia Essam. Securing or Securitizing? Unveiling the Role of Securitization “Audience” in Israel’s 2007 Bombing of the Syrian Nuclear Site.. 2026. American University in Cairo, Master's Thesis. AUC Knowledge Fountain.
https://fount.aucegypt.edu/etds/2660