Israeli Political Divide Less Than It Appears, Says Commentator
Prominent right-wing commentator Nadav Haetzni argues that most Israelis share more common ground on key issues than is commonly believed, despite the current political landscape suggesting deep ideological divisions. He contends that the formation of two major political blocs, one aligned with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the other opposing him, creates an artificial impression of irreconcilable differences.
Haetzni points to internal contradictions within both blocs to support his claim. He notes that parties like Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, and Benny Gantz's National Unity party, despite their opposing stances on Netanyahu, lack significant ideological divergence. He highlights Gantz's pledge not to join a coalition without a law for ultra-Orthodox conscription as an example. Similarly, he observes a wide spectrum of views within the "change bloc," citing the presence of religious right-winger Dan Illouz alongside far-left politician Gabi Lasky, and the contrasting positions of Naftali Bennett and Noam Tibon on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Within the Netanyahu bloc, Haetzni sees even less ideological unity, contrasting right-wing activist Yosef Haddad and Likud member Elisha Madan with ultra-Orthodox leaders like Yitzhak Goldknopf and Aryeh Deri. He suggests that figures like Haddad and Madan are ideologically closer to members of the opposition than to their ultra-Orthodox coalition partners, whom he accuses of opposing conscription.
Haetzni identifies opposition to Netanyahu, stemming from the prime minister's actions, the failures of October 7, and perceived broken promises, as the primary unifying factor for the opposition. However, he stresses that Netanyahu's significant support base is a democratic reality. The commentator believes the core issues facing Israelis, such as the future of Gaza, the judicial system, the economy, and ultra-Orthodox conscription, reveal greater societal consensus than the current political map suggests, with public opinion having converged more after October 7, particularly on judicial reform.
Furthermore, Haetzni criticizes the government's policy towards the Palestinian Authority, supporting Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar's actions against the UK, including closing the British consulate in Jerusalem and expelling British representatives involved in Gaza projects. He questions the large number of PA security personnel, exceeding the 24,000 limit stipulated by the Oslo Accords, and their training in Israeli-controlled areas and abroad. He also points out that foreign consulates in Jerusalem, accredited to the PA since 1967, operate in what he considers Israel's capital.
Looking ahead, Haetzni hopes that neither bloc achieves a decisive victory in future elections, preventing the formation of narrow coalitions. He suggests this outcome could lead to new political alliances or further electoral cycles, potentially fostering broader consensus.
