Mainstream Israeli Jews perceive their current conflict as rooted in the trauma of the Second Intifada and the Oslo collapse.
Political disillusionment in Israel is evidenced by a significant drop in voter turnout post-1999, reflecting instability and disengagement.
Israeli apprehension towards unilateral withdrawals stems from fears that such actions could lead to increased violence and instability.
Deep dives
Understanding Israeli Perspectives
The podcast explores the complex question of what mainstream Israeli Jews think about their circumstances and future, especially amidst ongoing conflict. It emphasizes that this understanding is not an objective historical truth but reflects the lived experiences of approximately 80% of Israeli Jews. These perspectives are shaped by a long history of trauma, including wars and political upheavals. Moreover, various narratives exist even among Israelis, including differing views on the Gaza disengagement and moral responsibilities regarding the Palestinian situation.
Voter Turnout and Political Shifts
A significant focus is placed on the dramatic drop in voter turnout in Israel from the 1999 election to 2001, which declined from about 79.5% to 62%. This 17-point collapse marked a profound change in Israeli political engagement, which had historically been stable even during crises. The podcast suggests that this political disillusionment was exacerbated by the emotional impact of the Second Intifada, leading voters to feel unmoored from traditional political identities and loyalties. The series of major military actions, domestic unrest, and economic issues contributed to a sentiment that the political system no longer effectively addressed their needs or concerns.
The Second Intifada's Lasting Impact
The podcast details the transformative effects of the Second Intifada on Israeli society and politics. Unlike the grassroots nature of the First Intifada, the second was characterized by organized violence, including numerous suicide bombings that shattered any notion of peace or trust from the Israeli left towards Palestinians. This heightened sense of vulnerability among Israelis has led to a widespread belief that Palestinian leadership cannot reciprocate offers of peace with security. The emotional and psychological scars from this period continue to influence Israeli public opinion and political discourse.
Challenges of Israeli Withdrawals
The discussion also highlights the general Israeli apprehension about unilateral withdrawals from Palestinian territories, exemplified by the disengagement from Gaza in 2005. After witnessing the chaotic aftermath of such withdrawals, many Israelis believe that these actions do not lead to peace but instead create power vacuums filled by groups like Hamas. This has led to a consensus that any future withdrawals, especially from the West Bank, would likely result in more violence against Israelis. Consequently, Israeli leaders have adopted a policy of maintaining control and deterrence rather than engaging in another potentially harmful withdrawal.
Navigating Confusion and Frustration
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Israelis express a mixture of confusion and frustration about their relationship with Palestinians. This sentiment stems from a belief that despite numerous attempts at peace, the results have always spiraled into violence, undermining any faith in fruitful negotiations. The podcast stresses that Israeli narratives must be respected and understood, as they reflect genuine fears and historical grievances. Ultimately, it asserts that for meaningful dialogue to take place between Israelis and Palestinians, there must be a recognition of these complex emotions and lived experiences on both sides.
Palestinian advocates like to quip that the current war "didn't begin on October 7." That's true, of course, though unhelpful. It didn't begin in any one specific place. There are no singular first causes in history. When we choose the beginning of the story, we choose its framing and meaning.For most Israeli Jews, the story of the current war might be said to have begun in the fall of 2000, in the great collapse of Oslo that still casts its long shadow on the Israeli political psyche.This is that story.Today’s episode is sponsored by Pennyweight Prizefighter, a small business dedicated to preserving the history and craftsmanship of antique and vintage fine jewelry. In a post October 7th world, pennyweight has become more committed than ever to making vintage and new Judaica available to anyone who feels compelled to honor these symbols with something as precious as gold and diamonds worn close to the heart. Check out pennyweight prizefighter on Instagram or pennyweightprizefighter.com.Please join me on Patreon to support this project: www.patreon.com/AskHavivAnything If you would like to sponsor an episode, please email us at haviv@askhavivanything.com.A podcast by Haviv Rettig Gur
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