How the Israeli Government is Betraying Zionism
“Betrayal” aptly describes the actions of Israel’s ruling coalition, which are undermining the true spirit of Zionism. There is hope that the end of the war in Gaza may offer Israel a chance to reverse this troubling trend.
German historian of Zionism Michael Brenner reminds us of the original vision held by the founding fathers of Israel, representing diverse political views, who imagined a democratic Jewish state. These founders, depicted in portraits across Israel today, include Theodor Herzl, David Ben-Gurion, and Vladimir Zeev Jabotinsky.
“They look down from the walls onto those who wield power in Jerusalem and are unable to defend themselves.”
However, their ideals have never been so profoundly betrayed as they are now in Israel’s corridors of power. Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing and religious coalition partners have deviated from Zionism’s core principles. Their actions have significantly damaged the Zionist cause, leading many of its supporters to question and even condemn it.
Critics accuse Zionism of being synonymous with racism and colonialism, but Brenner cautions against blaming the founders for the actions of their followers.
“To understand what Zionism is, we must remember what it once meant to many millions of Jews.”
Summary
The Israeli government’s current policies diverge sharply from Zionism’s founding ideals, causing disillusionment among supporters and risking the legacy envisioned by its founders.