These are the most consequential elections for Israel’s future in a generation. On October 27, Israelis will decide not only questions of security, national service, governance, and the cost of living, but whether Israel can defend its vital interests internationally.
A country unable to explain its position, rally support and confront lies pays a diplomatic, economic and security price. When Israel loses public support, it ultimately loses political support as well.
I hear from parents whose children are on the front lines, reservists sustaining families and businesses between deployments, and working citizens who pay more and receive less. The next government must put first those who serve, work, pay taxes and carry this country on their shoulders.
Israel’s isolation is underway. Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran threaten us militarily. But the campaign to sever Israel from its friends and undermine its legitimacy also threatens our economy, security and freedom of action. The forces represented by Jean-Luc Mélenchon and France’s radical left, along with Britain’s Green Party, reflect a profound shift in Western attitudes toward Israel.
Unless we reverse this trend, within two and a half years the United States could recognize a Palestinian state in Judea and Samaria, the Jordan Valley, eastern Jerusalem, and Gaza - regardless of who is president.
Worse, a future administration may decline to veto anti-Israel UN Security Council resolutions, opening the door to sanctions, harm to hi-tech and restrictions on weapons, ammunition, and spare parts.
Diplomatic isolation, eroding public support and antisemitism are not separate phenomena. They reinforce one another and become political decisions, sanctions, and limits on Israel’s freedom of action.
Decisions in Jerusalem affect Israel’s standing abroad
As foreign minister, defense minister, and finance minister, I saw firsthand how decisions in Jerusalem affect Israel’s standing abroad. We will therefore establish a joint emergency task force with Jewish communities in the diaspora, bringing together government, organizations, professionals, academics, business leaders and young people. It will coordinate messaging, engage decision-makers and opinion leaders, strengthen campus and online activity, and respond quickly to disinformation, antisemitism and delegitimization.
This will not be another government ministry, but a framework working daily with Jewish communities and Israel’s friends, identifying trends early and delivering our message clearly and persuasively. Israel must move from reaction to initiative.
On October 27, we will replace this government and establish a Zionist, statesmanlike and liberal government. We will enact a national service law for everyone, with military or civilian service; establish a state commission of inquiry; limit the prime minister to two terms; and adopt a constitution for Israel.
A change of leadership is essential to halt this decline. Israel needs a government that fights Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran with determination and restores Israel’s credibility, legitimacy and support across the democratic world.
The writer is the chairperson of Yisrael Beytenu.