Historical Roots of Israeli Security-Government Tensions Explored

An article analyzing the events of October 7, 2023, and the surprise experienced by Israel, suggests the roots of the problem lie in the early 20th century with the formation of Jewish security organizations. The author argues that early Zionist parties exerted control over all aspects of life, using institutions like the Histadrut labor federation to enforce political loyalty through the "red book" membership card, which was essential for employment and services. This system, established by figures like David Ben-Gurion and the Mapai party, created a structure where political affiliation dictated access to basic needs, fostering a climate of obedience.

The narrative traces the political struggles within the Yishuv, particularly Ben-Gurion's efforts to consolidate power through Mapai and his conflicts with rival factions like the United Kibbutz Movement and Mapam. The establishment of the Palmach, a politically charged military force, is highlighted as a key element, with Ben-Gurion viewing it as "Tabenkin's army" and recognizing its potential divergence from state control. Ben-Gurion's attempts to assert civilian control over the military, particularly by dissolving the position of Chief of the General Staff in the pre-state Haganah, are presented as early instances of friction.

Further historical events illustrate ongoing tensions. The article details the "first revolt" against Ben-Gurion's authority when he sought to dismiss Israel Galili, and a subsequent "revolt" by the General Staff over the appointment of Yigal Allon. The dissolution of the Palmach headquarters is described as a politically charged event, with Palmach members, many from Mapam, protesting and even disobeying direct orders, such as Yitzhak Rabin's participation in a demonstration against orders.

The post-state period saw a decline in the IDF's operational capabilities after the departure of experienced Palmach commanders. The article then shifts to the post-1977 political upheaval, suggesting that the security establishment developed a political orientation that led to distrust of the Likud government under Menachem Begin. This distrust manifested in actions like leaking information to the US and opposition to Likud policies, exemplified by the "Commanders for Israel's Security" group and "Brothers in Arms."

The author contends that the "color revolution" or quiet military coup following the November 2022 elections, characterized by encouraging insubordination and civil unrest, further eroded civilian control. This atmosphere, the article claims, led the heads of the Shin Bet and the IDF Chief of Staff to withhold critical intelligence from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the eve of October 7, 2023, despite the flood of warnings.