Jewish Thinkers Echo Hamas Founder's Prediction of Israel's Demise

Hamas founder Sheikh Ahmed Yassin predicted in 1998 that Israel would cease to exist in the first quarter of the 21st century, specifically by 2027. In a televised interview, Yassin stated that entities founded on injustice are destined for destruction, drawing a parallel to human mortality and the cyclical nature of nations. He cited the Quran, suggesting that generations change every 40 years, with the first 40 years marked by the Nakba, the second by the Intifada and conflict, and the third by Israel's end.

While Israel's military strength might make such a prediction seem improbable, the article argues that internal Israeli discourse and the views of its own thinkers and analysts lend credence to the idea of its eventual demise. Historical precedents like the short-lived First and Second Jewish Kingdoms, which lasted around 80 years, are cited as evidence. Israel, as the "third" Jewish state, is approaching this 80-year mark.

Israeli writer Dan Perry reportedly warned in an article for Ma'ariv that Israel might not survive until 2048 without a "national salvation" plan addressing war, isolation, and internal divisions. Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak echoed this sentiment in an opinion piece for Yedioth Ahronoth, noting that no Jewish state has lasted more than 80 years without beginning to disintegrate in its eighth decade. Even Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged in 2017 the need to ensure Israel's continuity for 100 years, given the historical precedent.

Further concerns are raised by Israeli intellectuals like Ari Shavit, who believes Israel is at a point of no return and "breathing its last," suggesting Israelis realize they are victims of a "Zionist lie" and are experiencing self-destruction. Historian Benny Morris reportedly anticipates Israel's dissolution, predicting Arab and Muslim victory and the marginalization or elimination of Jews in the region.

Some analysts suggest that while such predictions could be a tactic to garner international sympathy, the consistent expression of these fears by Israeli leaders and thinkers points to a genuine belief in the existential threat facing the state.