For Heaven's Sake The State of the Israeli Center
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Dec 10, 2025 Israel's political center faces a critical moment as elections approach. The discussion covers the historical collapse of the left and the emergence of centrist politics under Ariel Sharon. Key issues include the shift from moral discourse about Palestinians to concerns over demography and security. October 7 marked a turning point, intensifying the center’s reluctance to engage with moral responsibility. Current centrist figures and their challenges are examined, alongside the need for a renewed vision that balances Jewish identity with democratic values.
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Center Emerged From Left's Collapse
- The Israeli center emerged as a distinct force after the left collapsed, absorbing center-left positions into a pragmatic middle.
- It balances the left's concern about occupation with the right's skepticism about Palestinian readiness for a Jewish state.
Founding Debates Shaped Modern Divides
- Pre-state Zionist debates focused on borders and economics, with the left accepting partition and the right favoring maximalist borders.
- After statehood the territorial debate faded and economic differences dominated until 1967 revived the territory issue.
Sharon's Disengagement As Centrist Example
- Yossi recalls Ariel Sharon's disengagement as a centrist unilateral solution after peace efforts failed.
- Sharon told Israelis we could unilaterally define borders if peace partners were absent.