Haaretz: Palestinian Conflict Remains Central to Israeli Elections

The Israeli newspaper Haaretz argues that the conflict with the Palestinians and the future of control over Palestinian territories are the central issues in the current Israeli elections, despite the campaign's focus on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his leadership. The paper warns that ignoring this issue will not diminish its impact on Israel's future and international relations.

In an analysis published Monday, writer Alof Ben stated that Hamas's October 7 attack and the subsequent war have highlighted the consequences of neglecting the Palestinian issue. This contrasts with the 2022 elections, where security and foreign relations were marginalized under the assumption that the conflict could be contained.

The analysis points to the complex current reality, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza, ongoing Israeli military control over significant parts of the Strip, continued settlement expansion, land confiscation, and settler violence in the West Bank. Ben asserts these actions are pushing Palestinians into shrinking, isolated areas.

Israeli policies in the Palestinian territories have also drawn threats of sanctions from Western nations and calls in the United States to restrict or halt military aid. The incoming government will face a challenge: either continue settlement expansion and hinder Gaza's reconstruction, or take steps to alleviate international criticism by altering its policy toward Palestinians.

Netanyahu and his right-wing partners are committed to settlement expansion, including plans for construction in the E1 area near Ma'ale Adumim, which has drawn international criticism. The outgoing government has worked to solidify Israeli control over Palestinian territories, supported by broad segments of the Jewish public or their lack of objection.

Conversely, the analysis notes the positions of Gadi Eisenkot, a prominent figure in the change camp, who has spoken of "Jewish terrorism" and expressed reservations about proceeding with the E1 construction plan at this time. Any new government may face international pressure for tangible steps in the West Bank, such as freezing settlement tenders and confronting settler violence.

Implementing such steps will be difficult due to settlers and their political allies' insistence on gains made over the past four years, as well as ideological disagreements within the change camp regarding policy toward Palestinians. Ben concludes that while election rhetoric may focus on fear of a Palestinian state or avoid discussing the conflict's future, the Palestinian issue remains a significant factor in Israeli politics and its international relations.