Understanding the Knesset: Israel’s Democracy and Palestinian Impact

The U.S. has long positioned Israel as a cornerstone of democracy in the Middle East, a narrative reinforced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in July 2020. However, this perception faced a significant challenge when the Israeli government, on July 18, passed a resolution that outright rejected the creation of a Palestinian state. This decision not only contradicted decades of U.S. policy but also highlighted a growing international consensus advocating for Palestinian self-determination. The resolution articulated fears that a Palestinian state would pose an existential threat to Israel, perpetuating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and destabilizing the region. This stance was further underscored by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the U.S. shortly after, where he met with President Biden, signaling a clear dismissal of U.S.-led efforts for peace. The Knesset, Israel's legislative body, has historically been dominated by a few political parties, but the current coalition includes ten parties, reflecting a fragmented political landscape. Despite the presence of Palestinian citizens in the Knesset, their political participation is fraught with challenges, and they often face systemic discrimination. The recent developments have intensified scrutiny of Israel's democratic claims, particularly in light of the Nation-State law, which undermines the rights of Palestinian citizens. As the situation evolves, the demand for Palestinian freedom is gaining unprecedented attention, revealing the complexities and contradictions inherent in the Israeli political system.