The Tale of Two Countries: A Reflection on Israel’s Divide

Israel, a land of contrasts, tells the tale of two countries existing within one nation. In one realm, there are those who selflessly serve their country, while in the other, there are those who do not. The former, known as the servers, dedicate themselves to the IDF and civilian national service, diligently working, paying taxes, and fulfilling reserve duty obligations. On the flip side, the non-servers typically abstain from such commitments, neglecting service, work, and tax responsibilities.

This dichotomy underscores a fundamental imbalance in Israeli society, where a divide exists between those who contribute without expecting much in return and those who benefit without reciprocating. The current political landscape, marked by a deeply divisive government supported by anti-Zionist Ultra-Orthodox factions, has further exacerbated these disparities.

In a recent flurry of legislative actions, the government pushed through three controversial laws in the final days of the Knesset session. These laws curtailed the power of the Attorney-General, restricted media independence, and shielded Ultra-Orthodox draft evaders from police intervention. Such measures pose a threat to the democratic fabric of Israel, undermining essential checks and balances and eroding press freedom.

Of particular concern is the law shielding draft evaders, a move that has sparked outrage among many Israelis, myself included. The weight of reserve duty, especially in the aftermath of recent tragedies, has taken a toll on individuals, families, and society at large. The sacrifices made by soldiers, both in lives lost and mental scars borne, stand in stark contrast to the exemption enjoyed by the Ultra-Orthodox community, despite the urgent need for their service.

As Israel approaches a pivotal election in October, the stakes have never been higher. This election will shape the Zionist and Jewish identity of the nation for years to come, determining whether the divide between the two Israels widens or if a path to healing and unity emerges. The outcome will define the future of our nation, either perpetuating discord and division or fostering a renewed sense of national solidarity and purpose.

As we stand at this critical juncture, the choice before us is clear: to embrace the vision of “one heart and one nation,” uniting in our shared commitment to a strong, resilient, and inclusive Israel.

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Dr. Tuvia Book is a combat medic serving in the IDF’s PALMAR medical extraction unit, an internationally acclaimed speaker, tour guide and the author of four books including his latest, “Heroes of PALMAR, How One IDF Unit Revolutionized Combat Medicine in Gaza.”