NCJ Number
186522
Date Published
2000
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the dichotomy between Israel's national security and its use of coercive power against Palestinians, the use of extreme power by the State and its security forces in the name of national security, and abuses emerging from the cultural and national trust in the security forces and the legal system that protects them.
Abstract
The Israeli self-image rests on the idea that it is a democracy and models itself after Western European socialist democracies. For more than 40 years, Israel survived a regional threat to its national security. While the subject of national security dominated the political arena and was ingrained in the Israeli psyche, government leaders lost a clear view of the subject of national security. National goals became wrapped in ideology and members of the Israeli elite reinforced each other's attitudes rather than counterbalancing them. As Israel's security forces gradually developed and changed their methods of operation, they lost face and public confidence. In the 1980's, Israel entered a difficult period between national security requirements and democratic values. The rise of the Intifada resulted in the Israeli Defense Force becoming the center of attention and criticism due to its use of harsh measures against the Palestinians. The author believes future State crime in Israel is linked to the conflict with the Palestinians. Until a solution to the regional conflict is found, animosity and mutual fear will continue. 32 notes