Israel Accused of 'Closing Eyes' to Violence, Draft Evasion

The article argues that Israeli society, like France, is engaging in denial regarding significant internal issues, specifically violence by Jewish settlers in the West Bank and widespread draft evasion among the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community. The author likens the denial to a dangerous drug that numbs pain and avoids difficult decisions, ultimately exacerbating problems.

Regarding settler violence, the piece notes that while international media extensively covers incidents like stone-throwing, olive tree burnings, and attacks on Palestinians and journalists, the French press, for example, often frames similar issues as student protests or economic crises. The author contends that Israel, despite seeing these reports, also refuses to acknowledge its own internal problems, drawing parallels to France's alleged denial of its own societal issues stemming from mass Muslim immigration. The article highlights that international sanctions are increasing, with 139 measures documented in 64 countries, partly fueled by the violence in the West Bank, which provides ammunition to Israel's adversaries and strains relationships with allies.

A poll cited indicates a significant disconnect, with 75% of West Bank settlers believing there is no widespread Jewish violence against Palestinians, viewing such reports as an anti-Semitic conspiracy. While the majority of settlers reportedly oppose physical harm to Palestinians or property, the article posits that this denial creates a false sense of support for a violent minority and harms the entire settlement enterprise. The author warns that unchecked violence can spread like cancer, leading to broader societal breakdown if not addressed by the government, which is criticized for lax enforcement.

The article also addresses the issue of Haredi draft evasion, noting that approximately 110,000 Israelis are currently evading military service, 80% of whom are Haredi. This is presented as a symptom of the same societal breakdown, where organized communities, for ideological and political reasons, treat state law as a mere recommendation. The military faces a shortage of around 12,000 soldiers, impacting its ability to fulfill its missions without over-relying on reservists. Enforcement against draft dodgers is described as weak, with many apprehended individuals being released, partly due to the police's reluctance to engage in operations that could affect their careers and the need for extensive security due to protests by supporters of draft evaders.

Finally, the piece touches upon the denial within the liberal Israeli camp, which is accused of being so focused on opposing Prime Minister Netanyahu that it overlooks its own rigid adherence to certain political stances, potentially sacrificing national responsibility. The judicial system is also mentioned as living in denial, believing court rulings can solve problems requiring political leadership. The author concludes that the Israeli tragedy lies in each group's expertise at identifying the denial of others while remaining blind to their own, urging self-reflection.