Ronen Bergman, a journalist for The New York Times Magazine, dives deep into the escalating conflict in the West Bank and the rise of extremism in Israeli politics. He explains the troubling past of systemic violence against Palestinians and how extremist settlers are increasingly shaping Israeli identity. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of violence and the implications of far-right alliances for democracy. Bergman warns that the current trajectory may lead to further unrest and a potential third intifada, raising questions about Israel's future.
The rising violence in the West Bank is fueled by extremist political factions in Israel, creating an increasingly untenable situation for Palestinians.
Historical conflicts following the Six-Day War have led to diverging ideologies within Israeli society, complicating its national identity and governance.
Israeli institutions' complicity in allowing extremist violence against Palestinians contributes to a dangerous cycle of impunity and escalating tensions.
Deep dives
Introduction of Instagram's Teen Accounts
Instagram has rolled out new teen accounts aimed at improving safety for users under the age of 16. These accounts come with automatic protections including limits on who can contact teen users and what content they’re allowed to see. Furthermore, it requires parental approval for any changes to safety settings, ensuring that teens are able to connect safely and meaningfully with their peers and interests. This initiative reflects Instagram's commitment to fostering a safer social media environment for younger users.
Escalating Violence in the West Bank
Violence in the West Bank has been intensifying, with reports indicating a troubling rise in both Israeli military raids and retaliatory attacks from Palestinian armed groups. This surge in violence can be traced back to a broader political climate in Israel, characterized by the ascension of extreme right-wing factions. Such groups are participating in government, contributing to a troubling atmosphere where acts of aggression against Palestinians often go unpunished. The complexities of this internal conflict hint at an ominous future as tensions continue to escalate.
Historical Roots of Extremism in Israel
The rise of extremist political factions in Israel has deep roots, going back to significant historical events, notably following the Six-Day War in 1967. Post-war, two diverging ideologies emerged: one advocating for land for peace, and another insisting on a divine right to the territories. This divergence solidified a fundamental conflict within Israeli society regarding its identity as a Jewish state or a democratic one. Over the decades, an ongoing struggle for this national vision has intensified divisions and fueled radical ideologies.
Government Complicity and Impunity
A distinct problem arises from the apparent complicity of Israeli institutions in allowing extremist violence against Palestinians to go unchecked. High-ranking officials have acknowledged that Western authorities, including the Shin Bet, are failing to enforce laws against far-right extremists due to political pressures stemming from the government. Such inaction sends a message that violence against Palestinians is often tolerated, fostering a cycle of impunity that emboldens further aggression. This erosion of law enforcement poses significant challenges to the stability and future of the region.
The Cycle of Extremism and the Role of Leadership
The current Israeli government, which includes leaders from extremist parties, has demonstrated a willingness to embrace violence as a means to achieve political ends. Members like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have gained prominence, exerting substantial influence over policies concerning the West Bank. Their provocative actions, such as inciting violence or calling for collective punishment of Palestinian communities, exacerbate tensions and set the stage for potential escalations. The underlying implications of this leadership signal a dangerous shift in Israeli governance that prioritizes nationalistic aspirations over peaceful coexistence.
Warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence.
In the last year, the world’s eyes have been on the war in Gaza, which still has no end in sight. But there is a conflict in another Palestinian territory that has gotten far less attention, where life has become increasingly untenable: the West Bank.
Ronen Bergman, who has been covering the conflict, explains why things are likely to get worse, and the long history of extremist political forces inside Israel that he says are leading the country to an existential crisis.
Guest: Ronen Bergman, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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