Old Israeli Power Structures Use Mizrahi Figures to Maintain Control, Study Finds
Two contrasting events took place in Kiryat Shmona within two days, highlighting ongoing social and political dynamics in Israel. Gadi Eisenkot, a former IDF Chief of Staff of Moroccan descent, attended a political meeting at Beit HaKhan, while the TV program "The Patriots" was warmly received in the city the next day. These events illustrate the complex relationship between Mizrahi representation and Israeli power structures.
Kiryat Shmona historically exemplifies Israel's social divide, with development town residents at the bottom and the elite from nearby kibbutzim holding economic, social, and political power. Although Mizrahim have advanced into academia, the military, media, and politics, this has not necessarily changed the underlying power hierarchy. Eisenkot, despite his Mizrahi background, is seen as an ideal candidate for the old hegemonic elite, offering a more diverse face without threatening existing power centers.
The article distinguishes between descriptive representation (counting Mizrahim at the table) and substantive representation (who controls the agenda and power behind the scenes). The old elite strategically includes Mizrahi figures who legitimize their dominance without challenging the status quo.
Naama Lazimi, a politician from Migdal HaEmek who identifies with the periphery and Mizrahi struggles, exemplifies this dynamic. After Ehud Barak's controversial remarks about North African and Arab immigrants, Lazimi initially refrained from condemning him and later framed her response as a defense against political attacks rather than confronting the racist implications. This illustrates how Mizrahi representatives can become "useful idiots" for preserving old power structures.
The article argues that the real conflict is not between Ashkenazim and Mizrahim or about origins, but about control over the keys to the state. The old elite now diversifies its public image but retains control over who advances and what challenges are allowed. Thus, while the "millionaires by the pool" may appear different, the pool remains theirs.
Professor Moshe Cohen-Eliyahu, a constitutional law expert and founder of the Masad HaAretz research institute, authored this analysis.
