Israeli Elections Viewed as Political Theater Amidst War and Constitutional Crisis

The current Israeli elections are taking place within a context described as a fascist regime, an ongoing "genocidal war," ethnic cleansing, and a constitutional coup, rendering the political reality far from democratic. This situation echoes historical instances, such as in 1930s Europe, where democratic processes were subverted to serve totalitarian or oligarchic regimes. The article argues that elections in representative democracies have often become mere mechanisms for power transfer without substantive societal change.

The ruling coalition initiated these elections at the peak of protests against its handling of the October 7th attack and its constitutional agenda. The government aims to secure renewed voter support to advance two primary objectives: decisively resolving the Palestinian issue through violence and war, and completing a constitutional overhaul that dismantles ethnic democracy by merging state and society, abolishing the separation of powers, and eliminating the rule of law and freedoms.

While ostensibly a contest between a liberal right and a fascist right, the elections are fundamentally framed as a conflict between Israel and Palestine. The core discussions within Israeli society revolve around Palestine, its history, narrative, people, rights, and the persistent insecurity Israel faces despite its military actions. The demographic parity between Israelis and Palestinians between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, with a projected Palestinian majority, is a critical underlying reality.

The article criticizes the Israeli approach of attempting to decide the fate of Palestinians without their involvement, a strategy that has historically failed. It highlights that only a quarter of Palestinians, those holding Israeli citizenship, can participate in these elections. This participation is seen as crucial, as high turnout could thwart the right-wing's agenda. The presence of Palestinian representatives in the Knesset is presented as symbolic, representing Palestine's existence, which some Israeli elites seek to deny or marginalize.

The author observes a division among Palestinian citizens of Israel, with some seeking individual assimilation and others, like Mansour Abbas, attempting to align with the ruling establishment by abandoning their identity. However, the article notes that the Israeli establishment often distrusts and despises these individuals, viewing them as followers rather than partners. The decision of Palestinian citizens to vote is framed as a reaction against attempts to exclude them from the political sphere, asserting their presence as part of Palestine's broader existence and potentially ushering in a new political phase where their role is central.