Deep Right Seeks to Reshape Israel's Security Elite

A report reveals a concerted effort by the "deep settlement right" in Israel to cultivate a new security elite, aiming to place loyalists in key positions within the state's leadership. This initiative, spearheaded by the American conservative Tikvah Fund, has invested millions of dollars to influence power centers in Israel. The "Center for Israeli Freedom" organization serves as the operational hub for Tikvah Fund's projects in Israel, housing the "Argaman Institute." This institute runs the "Churchill Program," which trains and cultivates national security figures. The program boasts approximately 65 graduates, including the current head of the Shin Bet, David Zinai, as well as senior retired IDF officers, legal professionals, and Prime Minister's Office employees. The network also includes founders and managers of civilian right-wing organizations, strengthening their ties to the government. Notable figures associated with this network include the chairman of "Torat Lechima," an organization opposing progressive influences in the IDF, and the founder of the "Commanders and Fighters Forum," which advocated for starvation in Gaza. Lecturers for the program have included MK Simcha Rothman, chairman of the Knesset Constitution Committee; Dr. Eugene Kontorovich, head of international law at the Kohelet Forum; and former MK Dr. Michael Ben-Ari. This effort is seen as part of a broader push by the settlement right, in collaboration with the Kohelet Forum, to reshape the government, following previous projects that allegedly caused significant damage during the judicial overhaul attempts. The liberal camp is urged to recognize the threat and mobilize voters in the upcoming elections, warning that if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu forms the next coalition, ideas promoting perpetual war and a "mobilized nation consciousness" could gain further traction. The program's head has reportedly stated that "peace is not a strategic goal."