At the opening of the Haaretz Democracy Conference, Aluf Benn, editor-in-chief of Haaretz, stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s current government “returned him to power through a Kahanist coalition aimed at establishing a religious autocracy.”
A Contentious Assessment of Israel’s Current Government
Benn’s opening remarks paint a stark picture of the current Israeli political landscape. He alleges the governing coalition, formed to bring Netanyahu back into power, is rooted in Kahanist ideology and actively working towards a religious autocracy. This assessment suggests a fundamental shift in the nature of Israeli governance, moving away from democratic principles.
Despite the October 7th attack and the subsequent war in Gaza, Benn believes the government’s broader agenda – described as a “coup” – has not been abandoned. He specifically referenced the ongoing efforts to overhaul the judicial system, framing it as a means for Netanyahu to evade criminal trial.
The Broader Regional Implications
Benn’s analysis extends beyond domestic Israeli politics, highlighting the interconnectedness of internal policy and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He argues that a truly democratic future for Israel necessitates an agreement with Palestinian neighbors, potentially including a division of the country. He criticized what he described as a disconnect between liberal Israelis focused on areas within the 1967 borders – the “Green Line” – and the realities of the occupied territories.
Benn concluded by emphasizing the importance of a “political revolution” and drew a lesson from Netanyahu’s leadership: the unwavering pursuit of ideological goals. This suggests a long-term struggle for the future direction of Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “Kahanist coalition”?
According to Benn, a “Kahanist coalition” refers to a governing alliance that includes elements espousing the extremist ideology of Rabbi Meir Kahane, who advocated for the expulsion of Palestinians and the establishment of a Jewish state based on religious law.
What is the “Green Line”?
The “Green Line” refers to the 1967 armistice line that separated Israel from the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Benn states that many liberal Israelis focus their attention on areas within this line, potentially overlooking the situation in the occupied territories.
What is the judicial overhaul the government is pursuing?
Benn identifies the government’s push to overhaul the judicial system as a continuation of its broader agenda, suggesting it is partly motivated by a desire to shield Netanyahu from criminal proceedings.
Given these assessments, what role will international pressure play in shaping the future of Israeli politics and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
