The traumatic events of October 7, 2023, reshaped Israel in profound ways, revealing the cracks in a society that believed itself invulnerable. The horrific loss of approximately 1,200 lives and the abduction of 250 hostages shattered the illusion of security that many Israelis had clung to, exposing not only the fragility of peace but also the pervasive denial of Palestinian rights. The narrative that Israel had achieved a historically safe and prosperous existence is now, undeniably, an untenable assertion.
While the immediate aftermath did not lead to the dire predictions of protracted wars with Hezbollah and Iran, Israel’s situation has changed inexorably. The anticipated economic downturn has materialized, albeit less severely than expected, and trust in key institutions has remained relatively stable. However, these surface-level assessments must not distract from the underlying issues that continue to plague Israeli society: systemic inequality, the disregard for human rights, and the grave injustices faced by Palestinians.
Two critical developments have emerged since the shocking attacks: the far-right’s increasing control over the Israeli state and the nation’s growing dependency on the United States amidst a backdrop of international isolation. Yet, perhaps the most surprising aspect is that the extremist factions have not been able to harness the trauma of October 7 to expand their political power. This failure, however, should not lead to complacency; the political landscape remains dangerous, and the far-right agenda continues to seep into the fabric of governance.
The far-right factions have attempted to exploit the tragedy of October 7 to solidify their narrative of Arabs as perpetual adversaries. They sought to portray the military’s failure to prevent the attack as evidence of a “defeatist” elite. However, the anticipated surge in their support has not materialized. The Religious Zionist and Otzma Yehudit parties, which collectively secured 14 Knesset seats in the 2022 election, now face the grim reality of dwindling public support, with current polls suggesting a potential decline to as low as 12 seats. This reveals a growing discontent among the Israeli populace with the extremist politics that have dominated recent discourse.
The far-right’s connection to Orthodox Judaism and settlements in the West Bank alienates moderates and centrist voters who prioritize security over cultural conflicts. The extreme right’s inability to resonate with broader Israeli society must be recognized as a fragile victory, overshadowed by the ongoing violence and oppression of Palestinians. The two-state solution, once a flicker of hope, has nearly extinguished, replaced by a vengeful cycle of violence fueled by the far-right’s rhetoric.
Despite the lack of electoral gains, the far-right agenda remains relentless. Since the coalition led by Prime Minister Netanyahu took office, there has been a tangible shift towards state capture by extremist figures. The government, devoid of any moderating influences, has aggressively pursued policies aimed at weakening the judiciary and tightening control over the West Bank. The distraction of war has allowed these efforts to proceed with minimal public opposition, stifling dissent and accountability.
This unchecked power has enabled the far-right to push for extreme measures under the guise of security. The war against Hamas has evolved into a campaign of conquest—an unsettling push towards reoccupying Gaza and expelling its Palestinian population. Statements by officials like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who referred to Gaza as a “real estate bonanza,” lay bare the underlying motives of expansion and dispossession.
Meanwhile, in the West Bank, the military’s operations have intensified, resembling conventional warfare more than counter-terrorism efforts. By framing their actions as responses to terrorism, the military perpetuates the far-right’s agenda while exacerbating the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians. Settler violence against Palestinian communities has escalated, with attacks often going unpunished, reflecting a government unwilling to hold its citizens accountable.
The implications of these developments extend beyond Israel’s borders. The prolonged war and its humanitarian toll have led to a significant shift in international opinion against Israel, eroding the sympathy garnered in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 attacks. The European Union and other nations have begun distancing themselves from Israel, calling for accountability and justice in the face of ongoing violations of human rights.
Israel’s reliance on the United States for military aid and political support has become precarious. The rising isolation from Europe and the narrowing base of support within the U.S. threaten to destabilize Israel’s standing on the global stage. The current administration’s dependence on Republican support, which is increasingly wavering, signals a potential shift in U.S. policy towards a more critical stance on Israel’s actions.
As the war continues, the urgent need for a reassessment of Israeli policy is evident. The far-right’s unchecked ambitions pose a dire threat to the principles of democracy and justice that many Israelis claim to uphold. A call for accountability is not merely a moral imperative; it is essential for fostering a sustainable peace that recognizes the rights and humanity of all individuals in the region.
The current trajectory is unsustainable. The ongoing violence and state capture demand a collective awakening among Israelis—a refusal to accept the extremist narrative that seeks to erase Palestinian existence. It is only through a commitment to social justice, equality, and human rights that a just and lasting peace can be achieved.
The potential for change exists, as demonstrated by the Israeli public’s resistance to extremism. The need for a new vision, one that embraces coexistence, empathy, and justice, must guide the future. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but it is imperative that the voices for equality and human rights resound louder than the rhetoric of hate and division. The time for accountability is now, and the courage to envision a better future must emerge from the ashes of despair.
