Israel's government is too big, too costly, and holding back the Start-Up Nation - opinion

Israel's government has become an "unbearable burden" that the economy and society can no longer sustain, according to an opinion piece in the Jerusalem Post. The author argues that the "monstrous size" of the government, with its "massive budgets, superfluous ministries, and political appointments for cronies," is not just a fiscal issue but a root cause of chronic inefficiency.

In the "Start-Up Nation," a country built on innovation and agility, the governance structure is described as a "massive, stagnant, slow, and cumbersome state apparatus." This "bloated public sector" is likened to a "Fat Man" growing heavier, while the "Thin Man", the private sector, entrepreneurs, and taxpayers, struggles under the strain.

The article contends that the government has become a "predatory bureaucratic machine" that hinders progress, creativity, and prosperity, rather than serving its citizens. The author calls for a shift in the mindset of politicians, moving beyond the sole objective of getting elected to actively improving, building, and fixing the country.

To reverse this trajectory, the piece advocates for streamlining the government and, crucially, opening markets by removing "draconian barriers" from the economy. The author asserts that this is achievable, citing past successes in establishing a truly free economy.