Democrats Urged to Intensify Efforts After Primaries to Lead Israel Forward

Following the recent Democratic primaries in Israel, Dr. Nachman Shai emphasized the need for the party to work harder and avoid complacency. He noted that the alliance between Labor and Meretz has created a new political entity energized by activists and civil organizations from recent years, proving that their combined strength can exceed the sum of their parts. Shai argued that integrating protest movements within established political frameworks is preferable to forming separate protest parties.

Reflecting on the current political climate, Shai recalled the 2021 government formation, which was unprecedented but necessary for Israel's needs at the time. However, he criticized two political defections that weakened the coalition, leading to ongoing war, severe economic crisis, social division, and diplomatic isolation. He stressed that the Democrats, alongside centrist and moderate right-wing parties, must immediately launch a grassroots election campaign, focusing on direct engagement in neighborhoods, rural areas, and peripheral cities rather than relying solely on social media or campaign gimmicks.

Shai urged party members to reconnect with voters through persistent, on-the-ground efforts despite potential hostility, as this approach is essential to saving Israel. He pledged his support from his position as a veteran and encouraged current party players to take responsibility and score political victories. Dr. Shai is dean of the Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem and a member of the Commanders for Israel’s Security leadership, with prior experience as Israel’s Minister of Diaspora Affairs and IDF spokesperson.