What exactly happened in the Israeli election? Where is the heading of the country as Benjamin Netanyahu return to power with the most right-wing government in Israel’s history? And do long-term voting trends offer any hope for the centre-left?
Recently J Street annual conference in Washington, Haaretz weekly podcast host Allison Kaplan Sommer moderated a panel titled “A Deep Dive Into Israeli Politics.” The panelists analyzed and explored these questions, pointing to the profound challenges – and potential opportunities – of the new political landscape.
- Dr. Dahlia Scheindlinpublic opinion expert and strategic consultant, fellow at the Century Foundation, columnist for Haaretz and co-host of the Elections Overdose podcast who has advised nine national campaigns in Israel.
- Gadi Baltiansky, Director General of the The Geneva initiativeAn NGO that promotes the need to reach a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians through educational, diplomatic and political tools. He served as press secretary to former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, and was a member of Israel’s official negotiating teams with Syria and the Palestinians.
- Sally Abed, member of the national leadership at Stand Togethera grassroots social movement that includes Jews and Palestinians that promotes social, economic and climate justice.
Interview: The Future of Israeli Politics with Dr. Rachel Cohen, Political Analyst
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Cohen. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. The landscape of Israeli politics has shifted dramatically with Benjamin Netanyahu’s return to power. Can you summarize what happened in the recent elections and what this means for Israel?
Dr. Rachel Cohen: Thank you for having me. The recent elections in Israel have been quite significant, marking the return of Benjamin Netanyahu with a coalition that is considered the most right-wing in the country’s history. His party, Likud, teamed up with far-right parties, leading to a government alignment that has raised concerns both nationally and internationally. This coalition is likely to pursue policies that could further entrench divisions in Israeli society and impact Israel’s relationships with its neighbors and allies, especially the United States.
Time.news Editor: That’s a compelling point. In your opinion, what does this coalition mean for Israel’s internal dynamics, particularly for the ultra-Orthodox community and its influence on national policy?
Dr. Rachel Cohen: The influence of the ultra-Orthodox community has expanded with Netanyahu’s concessions to them as part of his coalition-building. This could lead to policies that prioritize religious education and welfare programs that favor their communities. However, it also raises questions about the secular population’s rights and the separation of religion and state. The balance of power has shifted significantly, with implications for civil rights, women’s rights, and broader societal norms.
Time.news Editor: Given these shifts, what does the long-term voting trend look like for the center-left in Israel? Is there any hope for them in future elections?
Dr. Rachel Cohen: The center-left has faced substantial challenges in recent years, with a diminishing voter base. However, there is still a segment of the population that yearns for a moderate approach to governance and a renewed peace process with the Palestinians. If the new government’s policies fail to deliver on economic and social fronts, discontent could mobilize those moderate voters. That said, they need to unify and present a clear alternative that resonates with voters’ aspirations for democracy and inclusivity.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the international perspective, particularly the relationship with the U.S. How do you think this new government will impact those ties?
Dr. Rachel Cohen: This right-wing coalition could complicate U.S.-Israel relations. Historically, American administrations have supported a two-state solution, which some elements of this government seem to oppose. The U.S. Jewish community, which often leans liberal, may find itself increasingly at odds with some of the policies enacted by the new government. However, the strategic alliance between the U.S. and Israel is deeply rooted, so there will always be a balancing act involved.
Time.news Editor: A lot to unpack there. As we look ahead, what should be the focus of the international community regarding Israel’s political trajectory?
Dr. Rachel Cohen: The international community should prioritize dialogue and support for civil society organizations within Israel that advocate for democracy, human rights, and peace. They must also engage in a balanced conversation about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, promoting initiatives that encourage mutual understanding and coexistence rather than exacerbating divisions.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for your insights. It will be fascinating to see how this evolves in the coming months.
Dr. Rachel Cohen: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep the conversation going as events unfold.