The 2006 elections are on the horizon – and it is possible that they bear a message of new ideas and viewpoints in the political, socio-economic and religious arenas. The inspiration for this long awaited change is contained in the selection of Amir Peretz to stand at the helm of the Labor Party. The social alternative that he proposes is real and humane – and it will also oblige the rest of the parties to contend with the real problems facing the Israeli public.
And on the political level, there is still room for hope that his unequivocal dovish standpoint will encourage a real debate on the issue of separation from the Territories and a settlement with the Palestinians. There has been a serious shift leftward in the views of the majority of Israelis – 70% currently support disengagement from the Territories, and it may be safely assumed that this standpoint will also manifest itself electorally.
