Haaretz Writer Warns of Israel's Impending Collapse
In a stark assessment of Israel's future, Israeli writer Rogel Alpher has articulated a dire prognosis in an article for Haaretz. He likens the state of Israel to a decaying tree trunk, appearing sturdy from the outside but internally eroded, suggesting that the nation is on the brink of total collapse. Alpher identifies six critical links that threaten Israel's existence, the most pressing being the perpetual state of war that has defined Israeli life since 1947. He argues that this ongoing conflict has led to a societal norm where Israelis live under constant threat, unable to envision peace.
The Six Links to Israel's Collapse
Alpher's analysis highlights the profound impact of the occupation of Palestinian territories, which he describes as a source of instability and a culture of death. He emphasizes that this occupation not only seeks geographical expansion but also distorts the fabric of Israeli society, leading to increased internal divisions and conflict risks. The writer also points to the rise of dictatorship in Israel, warning that the shift towards one-man rule and Jewish supremacy threatens the democratic foundations of the nation. He cites the controversial judicial reforms enacted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a significant factor in this shift.
The demographic changes within Israel, particularly the growing Haredi population, are identified as a fourth link, posing economic challenges due to their low participation in the workforce. Alpher connects this demographic crisis to a potential economic collapse, which he considers the fifth link. He warns that Israel's reliance on a limited number of taxpayers could lead to a deteriorating credit rating and increased burdens on ordinary citizens. Finally, he addresses environmental degradation as the sixth link, attributing it to overpopulation and government neglect, which could culminate in a significant environmental crisis.
The Inevitable Fall
Alpher concludes that these six interlinked issues cannot be resolved in isolation. He uses the metaphor of a tree, stating that the return of Israeli prisoners from Gaza would not signify healing for Israeli society, but rather a superficial fix amid a growing number of societal issues. He cautions that those who place their hopes in political changes or the return of hostages are overlooking the deeper, systemic problems that threaten Israel's future. Ultimately, Alpher warns that without addressing these interconnected links, Israel is on a path towards self-extinction and inevitable collapse.
