What Israel learned on October 7 and what remains unsolved - analysis
Israel has absorbed more common lessons about security than its fractured public life in the wake of October 7. The problem is that those shared lessons have not translated into shared obligations.
Israel has learned important lessons from the October 7 massacre, but there remain unresolved issues. The country knows how to mourn and commemorate tragedies, but the shared experience of this catastrophe has proven difficult to navigate. The different dates for commemorating the massacre reflect disagreements over who should lead mourning and the role of the government in the process.
Despite the shared knowledge about security threats, the country remains divided on obligations. While there is broad agreement on the dangers and the need to confront them, differences persist regarding priorities, military operations, and leveraging military achievements diplomatically. The Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, called for an assertive offensive posture, emphasizing the need to prevent enemies from building up their strength, a sentiment that extends beyond the governing coalition.
Another point of contention is the relationship between statehood and security. Many Israelis now believe that relinquishing control could create another breeding ground for armed conflict, particularly in Gaza. This skepticism towards Palestinian statehood contrasts with the international community's view of it as a potential solution to Middle Eastern problems.
The divisions within Israel can be traced to more than just Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They also stem from differing views on shared obligations. The country's need for soldiers and reservists is evident, but there is disagreement on whether the burden should be shared more broadly. Furthermore, accountability remains a contentious issue, with differing opinions on what taking responsibility entails and who should be held accountable.
Ultimately, the overarching issue is reciprocity. Citizens owe something to the country and one another, while the state and its leaders owe citizens protection, competence, and accountability. The October 7 massacre has underscored the importance of these obligations, and three years later, the full extent of the divisions remains unresolved.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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