Chess Champion Kasparov Warns of Civil War in Israel Over Haredi Influence
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Former world chess champion Garry Kasparov warned in The New York Times that Haredi political influence in Israel could lead to civil war, comparing the situation to the U.S. Civil War's origins. He criticized their disproportionate funding, political power, and military exemption, which fuels secular anger, especially post-October 7th. Kasparov argued that Haredi parties are crucial to Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition, enabling controversial policies, and that Israel must move towards legal equality.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Chess champion Garry Kasparov warned Israel faces civil war due to Haredi political power.
- Kasparov criticized Haredi public funding, Knesset influence, and military draft exemptions.
- He linked Haredi support to Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition and controversial policies.
- The article notes growing opposition to Haredi monopolies even within the Likud party.
- Kasparov called for legal equality, stating Israel cannot be half theocracy, half secular.
Former world chess champion Garry Kasparov has published a scathing op-ed in The New York Times, drawing parallels between Israel's current political crisis and the compromises that led to the American Civil War. Kasparov specifically criticizes the alliance between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties.
Kasparov highlights that while Haredim constitute about 14% of the population, they receive disproportionately generous public funding, wield significant political power in the Knesset, and are exempt from military service. This exemption has become a major source of anger for the secular public, particularly since the events of October 7th and the ongoing war in Gaza.
He further points to the Chief Rabbinate's monopoly over marriage, divorce, and burial, forcing many couples to wed abroad, and the restriction of public services on Shabbat despite millions of Israelis not observing the Sabbath. Kasparov argues that Haredi parties will support any leader who preserves their special privileges, regardless of accusations against them, making them essential partners in Netanyahu's right-wing coalition.
Kasparov contends that without Haredi support, Netanyahu would lack the backing for authoritarian moves like suppressing judicial independence or attempting to dismiss the Attorney General. Conversely, Haredim are losing support even within the right, with figures like Yuli Edelstein leaving the Likud due to opposition to Haredi monopolies, while the opposition campaigns to end the military draft exemption permanently.
Drawing on his experience growing up in the Soviet Union where Jewish culture was suppressed, Kasparov states he does not wish such a fate for Israel. Instead, he advocates for equality under the law and a state that serves as a "light unto the nations." Quoting Abraham Lincoln, he asserts Israel cannot continue as a "half theocracy and half secular state," suggesting upcoming elections offer a path out of the current predicament without bloodshed.