When Netanyahu leaves, Israeli politics will have to stand for something - opinion
After years in which Netanyahu has been the question, it is time for Israeli politics to begin preparing for the day when it will finally have to provide the answers.
For decades, Israeli politics has been dominated by a single question: Benjamin Netanyahu, yes or no. He has become the central figure in the country's political landscape, shaping policies and alliances regardless of their merits. However, this era cannot last indefinitely, and it is crucial to consider what will happen once Netanyahu is no longer the leader of Likud and a candidate for prime minister.
Opposition to Netanyahu has typically brought together disparate groups, with little common ground beyond the desire to replace him. As soon as he leaves the political stage, these parties will need to articulate their own platforms rather than merely opposing Netanyahu. Questions surrounding security, the economy, foreign relations, religion, the judicial system, and Israel's future will come to the forefront.
Domestic issues, such as judicial reform, settlement policies, and the cost of living, will require clear decisions and positions.
Likud, a long-standing governing party with a broad electoral base, will continue to exist after Netanyahu's departure. The challenge will be determining who will succeed him and how the party will evolve. A new Likud leader could reshape the political landscape, potentially paving the way for broad coalition governments involving centrist parties. This shift could help reintroduce genuine debate and the presentation of visions rather than boycotts.
Israeli society will also need to change. Netanyahu's personality-driven politics have created isolated camps that largely ignore each other. Issues are often judged based on their impact on Netanyahu rather than their substance, hindering productive discourse. For democracy to thrive, there must be a genuine exchange of ideas among the Right, Center, and Left, moving away from the binary opposition of "Only Bibi" versus "Anyone but Bibi."
Ultimately, Netanyahu's departure presents an opportunity for Israeli politics to transition from an era defined by a single individual to one centered on ideas, cooperation, and genuine debate. The day after Netanyahu will be a pivotal moment, but it also offers a chance to redefine Israel's political discourse and foster a more inclusive and productive political environment.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
