One-Fifth of Israelis See Existence of Israel as Threatened

Israel celebrated its 68th Independence Day on Thursday, May 23, but a new poll has shown that one in five Jewish residents is uncertain about the continuation of Israel's existence. This poll was published on Friday, May 24, in the Jerusalem Post; it aimed to assess the views of the inhabitants of this land at the beginning of the 68th anniversary of the establishment of Israel. The survey included 85% Jews and 15% Arabs residing in the territories since 1948. 21% of Jewish respondents stated that they see the survival of Israel as a country capable of continuing its existence as being in 'serious danger,' and 28% said they are considering leaving Israel to live elsewhere. Among those considering emigration, 63% stated that they do not view Israel as a good place to live due to economic conditions and a desire for a better life. 10% of those contemplating permanent departure from Israel indicated that the country's democracy is at risk. 39% said they remain in the country because of their family ties; 21% due to 'historical attachments,' and another 21% due to 'Jewish religious attachments.' Meanwhile, 76% stated that 'Israel is a good place to live,' and 69% said they do not intend to emigrate. Nevertheless, 73% do not perceive an existential threat to Israel but are concerned about security threats, with 54% expressing pessimism about the improvement of security conditions. 63% reported always being worried that a new war could break out at any moment. 64% said they are not concerned about political isolation in the world due to the government representing them. When asked if they would be willing to have a meal with a moderate Arab representative, only 1% expressed willingness (likely 1% of the Arab respondents), while only 2% said they would be willing to sit down for a meal with Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon. 56% described their political views as right-wing, 28% as centrist, and 16% as left-wing. 19% of respondents identified as 'hardcore secular,' 34% as 'secular with some connection to traditions,' 22% as 'traditional,' 14% as 'religious,' and 11% as 'Haredi' (ultra-Orthodox). In this context, Amos Oz, a renowned Jewish writer residing in Jerusalem, expressed his dissatisfaction with the political and social situation of the country during remarks made on the occasion of Israel's Independence Day. According to Israel Radio, Amos Oz recently stated in a speech at Tel Aviv University that this country considered democracy its strength, but recently anyone who criticizes the Netanyahu government or even claims to disavow its policies is 'immediately' depicted as an 'enemy of the nation.' According to this internationally awarded author, 'the threat to political opponents is becoming a way to silence dissent.' Amos Oz added that the radicalization of society 'is neither in the interest of the majority nor the minority.'