A New Israeli Government Won’t Stop the Settlements
Israel’s election on Tuesday is the first since October 7, 2023. Even if Benjamin Netanyahu’s government loses, it’s unlikely to lead to a real shift in Israeli policy.
For two decades, Israel has obstructed any kind of democratic process in the occupied territories. Even through changes of government in Israel, the main parties have made sure that Palestinians’ voice remains stifled. (Ilia Yefimovich / AFP via Getty Images)
Next Tuesday, Israel will hold its first general election since the October 7 attacks and the destruction of Gaza. The election campaign has again illustrated the radicalization of Israeli politics, even beyond Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, and the breadth of political forces who staunchly resist the creation of a Palestinian state.
In an interview, Palestinian Canadian lawyer and analyst Diana Buttu, who lives in Haifa, explains why she will cast her ballot in this election while rejecting Israel’s claim to be a democracy. Speaking to Elias Feroz for Jacobin, she discusses what a change of government could — and could not — mean for Palestinians, the new death penalty law, and the planned Palestinian elections next month.
Elias Feroz
Recent polls indicate that Benjamin Netanyahu may be on course to lose power. However, his government’s policies toward Palestinians have been supported by a much broader political establishment. If Netanyahu loses the election, what would actually change for Palestinians?
Diana Buttu
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