What does 'right-wing' actually mean in Israeli politics anymore? - opinion

Israeli politics is grappling with a confusing definition of "right-wing," as politicians from various factions, even those opposing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, adopt the label. This phenomenon challenges the traditional Left-Right political dichotomy, with many still hesitant to be perceived as "left-wing."

The article argues that "right-wing" in Israel no longer strictly refers to economic policy. The author, identifying as a capitalist, observes that many who are considered "right-wing" in Israel favor significant public spending and welfare programs, a stance typically associated with the left. These voters, unlike some in the US, are seen as logically supporting parties that provide them with economic benefits.

Furthermore, the piece explores the idea of being "right-wing" as synonymous with being Zionist. It questions the historical claims and framing of Palestinian displacement, suggesting that the focus on the Nakba is disproportionate when compared to other 20th-century population movements. The author contends that Palestinian national identity, while potent today, has weaker historical claims than often presented, arguing that before the rise of Zionism, the Arab inhabitants of Mandatory Palestine were largely part of the broader Arab Levant with local identities rather than a distinct ancient nation.