Israel Must Reconnect With Its Identity and Purpose Post-October 7

The article argues that the October 7th Hamas attacks served as a brutal awakening for Israel, shattering a period of complacency and detachment from historical reality, akin to the revelers at the Nova music festival. The author contends that Israelis, like the festival-goers, were living in an 'imagined reality,' lulled by prosperity and technological success, and blind to the existential threats surrounding them.

The piece criticizes both the political left and right for failing to grasp the depth of the crisis. It dismisses opposition promises of improvement through leadership change, citing past events like the Oslo Accords and the disengagement from Gaza as contributing factors to the current disaster. Simultaneously, it rebukes the current government's rhetoric, stating that the 'terrible disaster has already happened' under their watch, and that no political faction can absolve itself of responsibility.

The author posits that the crisis presents an opportunity for profound change, not merely tactical adjustments in security or politics. This change must involve a fundamental shift in Israel's 'operating system' and a re-evaluation of its identity and purpose. The article draws a parallel to the biblical prophet Jonah, emphasizing that Israel, as a 'messenger of the Creator of the world to history,' cannot escape its mission.

Furthermore, the article links Israel's challenges to broader global issues, including climate change, AI risks, and the erosion of moral and societal foundations. It suggests that humanity's technological prowess has outpaced its moral compass, leading to a dangerous disconnect. Israel, with its unique blend of scientific achievement and ancient moral tradition, is uniquely positioned to offer a model for the world.

Two dangerous responses within Israeli society are identified: a rejection of Jewish tradition and values, and an isolationist stance by parts of the ideological right. The author advocates for a 'renewal of the Israeli covenant,' uniting religious and secular, left and right, in a shared mission. This mission, he argues, is not merely survival or technological advancement, but the creation of a society that embodies moral and human excellence, drawing strength from its roots while contributing to the world. The article concludes that Israel must maintain military strength ('iron wall') but also build a society worthy of defense, fulfilling its destiny as a 'blessing.'