Israel's New Threat Landscape Highlights Internal, Political, and Economic Risks Alongside Iran

Two and a half years after the events of October 7, Israel's threat perception has evolved significantly. A recent survey by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), to be presented at the "National Security Conference" hosted by Yedioth Ahronoth on July 27, reveals that Israelis now view internal, political, and economic threats as equally critical to national security as the longstanding Iranian threat.

The survey identifies the four most prominent threats as violent internal societal conflicts (39%), Iran acquiring nuclear weapons (39%), a large-scale missile attack (35%), and the erosion of Israel's democratic character (31%). Retired Brigadier General Yuval Ayalon, a senior INSS researcher leading the study, emphasized that the combination of internal societal fractures, weakening U.S. support, and external threats such as a nuclear Iran and ongoing border conflicts could create a "perfect storm" for Israel.

The findings will be central to discussions at the upcoming conference, featuring prominent figures including Knesset Member Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister and Defense Ministry official Naftali Bennett, former Prime Minister and "Together" party leader Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and INSS head Tamir Hayman, former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman, former IDF Chief of Staff and Defense Minister Benny Gantz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and other senior military and academic experts.

The conference will be moderated by Sharon Kaydon and broadcast live on Ynet's website and app, with extensive coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth. It aims to address the complex interplay of Israel's internal divisions and external security challenges, providing a comprehensive platform for policy debate and strategic planning.