Israel's post-war elections demand a vision for the country's future

With post-war elections scheduled for October 27, Israelis must consider a bold vision for the country's future, encompassing its dual identity as a Jewish nation-state and a liberal democracy. The article emphasizes that Israel's security is intertwined with its democratic strength, especially given internal divisions and the ongoing debate over Haredi military service. New leaders will need to address external challenges, including expanding the Abraham Accords and reimagining relations with Palestinians, and internal issues such as electoral reform and rebuilding public trust.

• A key challenge is correcting the "original sins" of Israel's founders: the failure to pass a constitution and ensure equality for the ultra-Orthodox population.
• The Haredi community's indifference to the war and refusal to enlist or adopt a core curriculum are highlighted, with the IDF needing 10,000 soldiers while 100,000 Haredi men of draft age are unwilling to serve.
• The article argues that non-Haredi Israelis can no longer subsidize or defend this growing segment of the population, advocating for subsidies tied to national service and educational standards.
• The absence of a constitution has weakened democratic foundations, as seen in early 2023 when an elected government sought to consolidate power, bringing the country to the brink of "a real civil war," according to President Isaac Herzog.