Project leader: Yaakov Katz
- Intra-Israeli cohesion is difficult to achieve because the Israeli public has little confidence in the current government. As a result, elections should be held in Israel, to be followed by the formation of a broad coalition that will strengthen trends of convergence on points of social consensus.
- The war in the Gaza Strip has exposed Israel’s security dependence on the U.S. Efforts should be made to restore the resilience of the triangular relationship: Jerusalem-Washington-American Jewry. In addition, there should be renewed discussion regarding a defensive alliance between Israel and the United States. The alliance obviously sets limits on Israel’s independence of action but has advantages in terms of deterring Israel’s enemies and promoting regional stability.
- Israel should avoid involvement, or even the appearance of involvement, in the U.S. elections. The temptation to voice opinions that could be interpreted as support for one side or the other may be high, but Israel should adhere to the founding principle that underlies its special relationship with the U.S.
- The resurgence of antisemitism worldwide, particularly its expressions in leading universities in the United States and Europe, reminds us that there is no substitute for strengthening Israel and Jewish communities in need. Israel must design a renewed plan to absorb Jews from around the world who decide to make Aliyah and help supports communities under threat.
- New resources and organizations should be established, or existing organizations should pivot, to provide for Jews who choose to remain in declining communities, whether those that are shrinking due to emigration or due to negative growth.
- In light of the rapid demographic growth of the ultra-Orthodox within the general population, the need for change is becoming increasingly urgent. Given Haredi politics, the ability to bring about change is diminishing. A joint effort is required from all Israelis – Haredi and non-Haredi – with the understanding that in the most important aspects of our lives, the current situation poses a significant challenge to the continued prosperity of the State of Israel.
- Israel must act within the framework of an international coalition, sign additional peace agreements, and redirect budgets toward the civilian sector. The need to increase the defense budget will diminish as Israel increasingly operates in combined forces with Western countries to more effectively confront Iran.