Jacobin Radio: Israeli Politics Since October 7 w/ Yoav Peled
Sep 27, 2024
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Yoav Peled, Professor Emeritus at Tel Aviv University, shares his insights on the seismic shifts in Israeli politics since the October 7 attacks. He explores the growing domestic unrest against Netanyahu, fueled by public protests and rising anti-war sentiments. Peled dives into the complexities of Israeli society, revealing how recent events have heightened divisions, especially among the Mizrahim community. Additionally, he discusses the interplay of ethno-national populism and the impact of the ongoing Gaza conflict on U.S.-Jewish relations.
The October 7 attack by Hamas has sparked massive protests in Israel, indicating a public desire for an end to ongoing military operations.
Netanyahu's political survival hinges on manipulating narratives around the conflict and managing delicate coalitions with far-right parties amidst rising public dissent.
Deep dives
The Impact of October 7th on Israeli Politics
The October 7th attack by Hamas significantly altered the political landscape in Israel, resulting in violent retaliation and a continuation of conflict in Gaza. This incident has not only galvanized public sentiment but has also intensified internal divisions within Israeli society and the Jewish diaspora. Mass protests erupted in response to government actions, with significant turnout highlighting dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Netanyahu's handling of the situation, particularly regarding hostages. Analysts suggest that these demonstrations may signal a broader desire among citizens for an end to the ongoing conflict, challenging the government's narrative surrounding military engagement.
Netanyahu's Political Maneuvering
Netanyahu's grip on Israeli politics appears increasingly reliant on manipulating narratives to maintain control over the public discourse and political alliances. His motivation to stay in power is not just political ambition but also a strategic move to avoid the repercussions of his ongoing criminal trial. He faces significant challenges, particularly in balancing coalition dynamics with far-right parties that could threaten his position should he agree to a ceasefire or negotiations with Hamas. This precarious balance constrains any movement toward a lasting peace and continues to fuel public frustration and dissent.
The Consequences of Ongoing Conflict
The current war in Gaza and its potential expansion into northern regions reflect a broader strategic failure in Netanyahu's approach, failing to achieve intended military objectives such as the incapacitation of Hamas. As hostilities persist, public sentiment becomes increasingly polarized, with significant portions of the population demanding an end to military operations. Critics of Netanyahu's strategy highlight the severe lack of long-term planning and the detrimental impacts of military measures on Israel's global standing and internal cohesion. This environment creates a complex backdrop for potential shifts in public opinion and increased calls for accountability from the government.
The Social and Economic Ramifications of Militarization
The ongoing conflict and military service demands are taking a toll on Israeli society, as many civilians face severe economic strains due to prolonged military commitments. The situation is exacerbated by a noticeable 'brain drain,' as key professionals, such as doctors, are exiting the country in search of stability and better opportunities elsewhere. The socio-economic landscape is influenced by a growing chasm between those who support the military's actions and those who are increasingly critical of the conflict's toll. Proponents of peace within Israel are struggling to find a unified voice, making it challenging to address the deeper issues of occupation and military strategy.
Yoav Peled, Professor Emeritus of Tel Aviv University, is able to speak to us again for the first time since 2023. He helps chart the evolution of Israeli politics since the October 7 attack by Hamas, which was quickly followed by Israel's devastating war on Gaza, showing total disregard for the lives of Palestinians. That war is now extending to the North as Israel unleashes terror in Lebanon. And in Israel, the reverberations of October 7 continue to affect domestic politics. It also has created divisions within the Jewish community in the US. We get Yoav's analysis of the mood in Israel, what the massive demonstrations against Netanyahu signal, and the relationship between the expanding war and Israeli party politics. We'll also get Yoav to discuss his research on the rise of ethno- and religio-national populism, especially among the Mizrahim, who form the base of the Likud and the far right.
Jacobin Radio with Suzi Weissman features conversations with leading thinkers and activists, with a focus on labor, the economy, and protest movements.
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