Babel: Translating the Middle East
Dahlia Scheindlin: Israel’s Political Turmoil
Apr 3, 2025
Dahlia Scheindlin, a prominent Tel Aviv-based political analyst and Haaretz columnist, breaks down the complexities of Israel's political turmoil. She discusses Prime Minister Netanyahu's surprising resilience and his attempts to reshape state institutions amid widespread public discontent. The conversation also touches upon the shifting political dynamics following the October 7th attacks and the implications for U.S.-Israel relations. Scheindlin highlights the precarious state of democracy in Israel and the challenges posed by right-wing coalitions and potential electoral delays.
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Quick takeaways
- Netanyahu's enduring political support stems from his ability to reshape alliances, despite significant public skepticism about his intentions.
- The erosion of democratic norms in Israel, combined with rising public distrust, raises concerns over the future of governance and U.S.-Israel relations.
Deep dives
Netanyahu's Political Resilience
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demonstrates significant political resilience amid public skepticism towards his leadership. Despite widespread distrust, a core group of approximately one-third of the population supports his government and its endeavors, particularly among ultra-Orthodox and national religious communities. This persistent backing enables Netanyahu to maintain power, even as many Israelis question his motivations, suspecting that decisions are influenced more by personal political interests than national security. The fragmented party system allows Netanyahu to re-engineer political alliances, further complicating efforts to unseat him.
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