The Blogs: Not Just a Vote Against: What a Zionist Government Must Stand For | Daniel Goldman

Daniel Goldman argues that the Israeli election requires voting for a Zionist vision, not just against Netanyahu. He criticizes Netanyahu's contradictory statements on Iran, his reliance on extreme partners like Ben Gvir and Smotrich, and the anti-Zionist anthem at a UTJ rally. Goldman outlines five priorities for a new government: accountability, rebuilding the Otef and North, a military-diplomatic strategy, addressing the Palestinian question, and partnership with Arab citizens and Haredim.

In an opinion piece for The Times of Israel, Daniel Goldman argues that the upcoming Israeli election is not just about voting against Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition, but for a positive Zionist vision. He criticizes Netanyahu for contradictory statements on the Iranian threat, his acceptance of potential international sanctions without a diplomatic strategy, and his reliance on extreme partners like Ben Gvir, Smotrich, and UTJ, whose rally featured an anti-Zionist anthem. Goldman endorses alternative leaders—Eisenkot, Bennett, Liberman, or Golan—but says they have not defined a vision beyond fixing the current government's mistakes. He outlines five priorities for a new government: restoring accountability with a state commission of inquiry into October 7; rebuilding the Otef and North as a Zionist priority; developing a military and diplomatic strategy for the Gaza, Lebanese, Syrian, and Iranian fronts; addressing the Palestinian question beyond security; and fostering partnership with Arab citizens and Haredi integration. The piece frames the election as a choice between a Zionist-led government and continued wars, isolation, and democratic decline.