How many seats is Yaniv Hiyon worth?
The article examines the electoral impact of the attempted hijacking of a plane from Dubai on the right-wing bloc, analyzing the emotional effect of the event versus political considerations. The author argues that the event strengthens a sense of Israeli pride and highlights the emotional gap between coalition supporters and the opposition, using the figure of Yaniv Hiyon as a symbol of positive Israeli masculinity.
The article, by Prof. Ron Shapira, examines the electoral impact of the attempted hijacking of a plane from Dubai on the right-wing bloc. The author argues that the event does not affect the assessment of Netanyahu's security policy or the skills of the leaders, but operates on an emotional level. He rejects claims that Netanyahu warned in advance or that the Ministry of Transportation failed, and explains that the effect stems from a sense of pride in Israeli identity and renewed optimism in the face of a display of heroism. The author compares the sentiment of coalition supporters (pride in Israeli/Jewish identity) to that of opposition voters (a desire to belong to Western culture). He uses the figure of Yaniv Hiyon as a symbol of positive Israeli masculinity, comparing him to figures like the American "Joe the Plumber." The article concludes that the event strengthens a sense of Israeli pride among undecided voters, distancing them from the left-center.