Summary and Importance

In the constantly evolving landscape of Israeli politics, the New National Camp (NNC) theory provides a compelling framework for understanding shifting political alliances and ideologies. Recently revisited by Jeremy Saltan, the NNC centers on the premise that the political center of Israel has moved towards the right, giving rise to a new middle-ground ideology that emphasizes unity and security.

Why it Matters

This analysis is crucial for understanding the current political tension and alignment post-October 7. By comprehending these shifts, we can better appreciate the strategic movements and thought processes underpinning various political factions, notably Israel’s adaptive measures to stay unified in the face of external threats.

The New National Camp (NNC) Theory

The theory suggests that Israeli political history can be divided into multiple dynamic periods, each spawning a “new camp”: the Left in 1948, the Right in 1977, the Center in 2005, and now the NNC arising from the political upheavals since 2019. The traditional linear political spectrum no longer suits Israel’s diversified political scene.

Saltan proposes viewing Israel’s politics as a triangle intersecting three core principles: Jewish identity, democratic values, and state security. Within this triangle:

• The Right, including Likud, prioritizes Jewish identity.
• The Left emphasizes democratic values.
• The Center focuses on security.
• The NNC balances all three positions and stands in harmony at the center of this triangle.

Non-Zionist minorities are viewed along the triangle’s edges, usually concurring with only one principle.

Finding Commonality

Positioned at the center, the NNC appreciates and finds equilibrium between various ideological interpretations of Jewish, democratic, and secure values. It embraces unity as an ideological choice, positioning itself potentially to succeed the traditional Right as Israel’s dominant ideological force.

Competing Theories

Bipolar theories still persist, classifying political factions into binaries such as Right vs. Left or Pro-Bibi vs. Anti-Bibi. However, the hybrid model grouping factions into Right, Left, and an extensive Center — popularized by Dr. Micha Goodman — also gains traction, especially post-October 7.

The splits within existing factions like the National Unity faction led by Benny Gantz highlight this complexity. Disputes between key members like Gideon Sa’ar and loyalists indicate deep-seated ideological and policy divergences, calling for an adaptable yet firm approach akin to that envisioned by the NNC.

Outlook

The NNC theory provides a robust framework to analyze and navigate through Israel’s intricate political landscape. As the old days of clear binary distinctions fade, this new model underscores the nation’s need to balance unity with pragmatic realpolitik for a secure future.

Next Steps

In the following article, we will delve deeper into evaluating NNC’s viability within the current political climate, integrating data from recent scenario polls and the implications of new political realities post-October 7.

Related Tags

Benjamin Netanyahu, Benny Gantz, Knesset, The October 7 Massacre

This story was first published on jpost.com.