Monday, December 11, 10:00 AM EDT
Israel's Moment of Crisis: What are the Prospects for Political Change?
When Benjamin Netanyahu returned to office as prime minister at the end of 2022, his coalition government, the most right-wing in Israel’s history, ushered in a divisive new era of political polarization, pushing ahead with reforms to overhaul the judiciary in an effort to consolidate power. But the brutal terrorist attack by Hamas on Oct. 7 and Israel’s subsequent declaration of war have brought the country to a critical inflection point, undermining Netanyahu’s carefully crafted image as “Mr. Security” and raising questions about his political future. Many now hold him directly responsible for the national security failure, including retired Gen. Benny Gantz, who is a member of the emergency war cabinet. A number of recent public opinion polls indicate that Israelis are seeking new leadership. Will Netanyahu be able to maintain his hold on power and keep his coalition government together? What are the prospects for political change in Israel? And could this bring about progress towards Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking?
The Middle East Institute (MEI) is pleased to host an expert panel to discuss the current state of Israeli domestic politics and its implications for a potential resolution to the Israel-Hamas war and the future of the Israeli-Palestinian relations.
Speakers
Rami Hod
Executive Director, the Berl Katznelson Center
Tal Shalev
Political correspondent, Walla News
Yair Zivan
Senior Advisor to Yesh Atid Leader and Head of Opposition Yair Lapid
Nimrod Goren, moderator
Senior Fellow for Israeli Affairs, Middle East Institute