How a Small Minority Influences Israeli Politics Today

The situation in Israel escalated when military police attempted to arrest nine reserve-duty soldiers at the Sde Teiman detention facility, leading to protests by civilian activists. This incident marked a significant instance of far-right violence within Israel, reflecting a broader trend of lawlessness that has previously been confined to the West Bank. The far-right factions in the government, particularly under Netanyahu's leadership, have increasingly embraced chaos as a strategy to promote their agenda, including the annexation of the West Bank and the erosion of democratic institutions. The current government, formed in late 2022, is characterized by a coalition of right-wing parties that not only advocate for hardline national security policies but also harbor deep distrust towards governmental institutions. This sentiment has led to a situation where the army, traditionally respected in Israel, finds itself at odds with extremist settlers and rioters, as the far-right factions align themselves with the latter. The far-right's influence extends to the police and state budget, allowing them to shape key policies and undermine the liberal foundations of the country. The United Nations has reported a significant increase in violence against Palestinians by settlers, with many incidents going unchecked due to the government's reluctance to confront far-right actions. As public trust in institutions wanes, the far-right's grip on power appears to strengthen, raising concerns about the future of Israel's democratic values and the potential transformation into a more authoritarian regime. The ongoing conflict and violence highlight the precarious balance between security and civil rights in the region.