Commentator Calls Israeli Political Divide 'Dramatic Historical Event'

Commentator Avishai Ben-Chaim described the current political landscape in Israel as a "dramatic historical political event," asserting that the divisions are not relics of the past but are happening now. He characterized the situation as a race where "Israel the First" received significant assistance from the system, while "Israel the Second" was burdened. Ben-Chaim specifically pointed to the success of the "hegemony" in dismantling the right-wing bloc and shifting the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, attributing this not to skill but to privileges. He argued that the Haredi are convinced "Israel the First" can grant them exemptions from military service and halt arrests, claiming the judicial system favors the left and the hegemony.

Ben-Chaim further stated that the hegemony is unaware of its own dominance, its privileges, and its suppression of Mizrahi (Oriental Jewish) Israelis. He likened it to them finding bus seats readily available without realizing that others who should have boarded were blocked. He believes their achievements are tied to their privileges and the obstruction of those who should have competed with them. To rectify this, Ben-Chaim called for an end to boycotts and the cancellation of the "red book," at least in politics, advocating for a government of national unity. He expressed little hope for the High Court of Justice (Bagatz) or Glatz (Army Radio) to facilitate these changes.