GEW Reports and Analyses

Far-Right Politics in Israel: How Conflict Shapes the Political Discourse

Introduction: The Evolution of Israeli Right-Wing Politics

Israel’s political landscape has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, as nationalist, religious, and ideological dynamics converge with the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Once considered peripheral, far-right parties have now shifted to the mainstream, wielding significant influence over domestic policy and societal direction. The book “Far-Right Politics in Israel: How Conflict Shapes the Political Discourse,” by GEW Intelligence Unit, provides a deep dive into this pivotal evolution and how it continues to reshape Israel today.

The Rise of the Far-Right: From Fringe to Government Core

The Ascendancy of Extremist Parties

Traditionally, Israeli politics has been characterised by the dominance of centrist and moderate right-wing factions. However, the last decade saw the meteoric rise of far-right entities, driven largely by ongoing security concerns, ideological shifts, and demographic changes. The Likud party, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, has taken an increasingly hardline approach, notably rejecting the two-state solution and championing the annexation of the West Bank. This stance has garnered considerable public support, especially amidst periods of heightened conflict.

Religious Zionist Influence

The Religious Zionism party, spearheaded by Bezalel Smotrich, represents a powerful fusion of nationalism and religious conservatism. This group calls for sweeping judicial reforms and advocates for the forced displacement of Palestinians who desire statehood. Their agenda, blending faith-based ideology with political activism, has resonated with a growing segment of the population, pushing Israeli policy further to the right.

Key Far-Right Actors Shaping Israeli Policy

Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power)

Led by Itamar Ben-Gvir, Otzma Yehudit stands as one of the most controversial and uncompromising voices in Israeli politics. The party explicitly supports the expulsion of Palestinians from both Israel and the occupied territories. Ben-Gvir’s rhetoric has stirred both domestic debate and international concern, as his positions confront foundational principles of democracy and minority rights.

Noam: Ultra-Orthodox and Anti-Liberal Platform

Noam embodies the ultra-Orthodox and anti-liberal thread within the far-right spectrum. Prioritising “traditional family values,” the party aggressively challenges minorities’ rights and promotes deeply conservative social policies. Noam’s increasing presence at the national level underscores a significant shift towards religious radicalism in policymaking circles.

Shas and United Torah Judaism: Religious Alignment with Nationalism

While their primary focus remains on religious and social issues, parties like Shas and United Torah Judaism often align themselves with far-right stances on the Palestinian conflict. Their cooperation with nationalist parties has reinforced a wider rightward shift within coalition governments, embedding hardline policies across ministries.

Outside Parliament: Far-Right Movements and Grassroots Dynamics

Lehava and the Hilltop Youth

Far-right extremism in Israel extends beyond institutional politics. Lehava, an anti-assimilationist organisation, actively campaigns against interfaith relationships and the integration of non-Jews. Meanwhile, loosely organised groups like the Hilltop Youth represent the militant edge of the settler movement. Through provocative activities and occasional violence, these groups maintain constant pressure for further expansion and radicalisation of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians.

The December 2022 Government: Israel’s Hardest Right Administration

The government constituted in December 2022 is widely viewed as the most right-wing in Israel’s history. Multiple far-right parties have assumed control over influential ministries, from justice to public security, implementing broad changes to critical aspects of law, order, and governance.

Impact on Governance and Civil Society

These policy shifts, driven by far-right agendas, have profound implications for the fabric of Israeli society. Tensions over judicial reform, discrimination against minorities, and settlement expansion have sparked widespread protest and debate. Civil society, once a bulwark of Israeli democracy, faces sustained pressure and polarisation amidst this escalating political conflict.

How Conflict Shapes Far-Right Discourse

The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict as a Political Engine

Ongoing conflict with the Palestinians is the central force fuelling far-right ascendancy. Each cycle of violence intensifies national security concerns and provides fertile ground for radical narratives. Far-right leaders capitalise on fears, rallying support for aggressive military responses, expansionist policies, and harsh measures against dissent.

Policy Decisions Reinforce Radicalisation

The perpetuation of occupation and the expansion of settlements are not only consequences of far-right influence—they are also driving the electorate further rightwards. These policies entrench political narratives that view compromise as weakness, fostering a climate of polarisation and continual escalation.

The International Dimension: Global Repercussions of Israel’s Right-Wing Shift

The ascent of far-right politics in Israel has not gone unnoticed abroad. International allies and critics alike grapple with the implications for peace prospects, regional stability, and democracy. As policies become more exclusionary, diplomatic friction with Western partners increases, impacting Israel’s global standing and its relationships within the international community.

Conclusion: A Society at a Crossroads

“Far-Right Politics in Israel: How Conflict Shapes the Political Discourse” presents a compelling and meticulously researched account of how the far right has become a central force in Israeli politics. It traces the deep links between ongoing conflict and political radicalisation, illustrating how today’s discourse and policymaking are shaped by both security imperatives and ideological fervour.

As Israel stands at a crossroads, the ongoing evolution of its political landscape will affect not only the fate of millions within its borders but also the broader quest for peace and stability in the Middle East. Understanding these dynamics is essential for appreciating the complexities of Israeli society and the far-reaching impact of its rightward political transformation.

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