The security escalation in the Palestinian arena, as well as the alarming developments in the Iranian nuclear issue, are confronting Israel at a time of deep internal crisis, strife and controversy.
Our enemies did not refrain from acting against us even when they estimated that by doing so they might strengthen internal cohesion, all the more so when they doubt this.
The need for appeals and attention on the part of the political echelon to the security issues, as well as a cohesive stance in the face of the challenges, necessitates a quick reaching of agreements that will calm the spirits inside the house.
Riot in the Constitutional Committee, photo: Oren Ben Hakon
For the avoidance of doubt, agreements on disputed issues have great value regardless of this, but now the security situation also brings the dimension of time and urgency into the equation.
Security forces in the Old City of Jerusalem, photo: AFP
As for dealing with Palestinian terrorism, the authorities, as well as the citizens of Israel, are aware of such situations.
Vigilance is high and the means are familiar.
It will be difficult to renew the security forces in this matter.
Great importance is attached to prevention and countermeasures efforts.
In this regard, it is important to make sure that the criticism heard about the high number of casualties on the Palestinian side will not deter our forces from initiating operations to thwart terrorist attacks - whenever a suspicion of this arises, nor will it lead to restraint that will reduce the margin of safety of the forces in their activities inside the territory.
Israel does not need to justify or apologize for the results of its actions.
The Palestinian Authority, which allowed the existence of these groups, ignored their arming and strengthening and continued to glorify the terrorists that emerged from them - bearing responsibility for the reality it is experiencing today.
Intelligence vigilance
As for Jerusalem, it is essential to increase the presence of the police and encourage the carrying of weapons by authorized citizens.
A quick and efficient response to terrorist attacks is important not only to prevent casualties and the direct damage from them, but also to prevent the development of negative momentum and weaken the motivations for terrorism.
IDF soldiers in action in Nablus, photo: Photo: AFP (archive)
Intelligence vigilance is also required in relation to extremist elements within the Arab society in Israel, especially among young people who in the past were inclined to the ideas of ISIS and the like.
The incitement on social media, the extent of the Palestinian casualties and the approach to Ramadan may renew the inspiration and drive for some to carry out attacks.
After all, the unity of the ranks and a cohesive stance against the threats will not only allow for better preparation in the face of the challenge, but they will convey a clear message to our enemies: despite the controversy, we are united!
The author served as a national security advisor and head of the national security staff in 2017-2021. Before that, he held a number of positions at the top of the Shin Bet and is currently a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies.
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