This book provides a detailed investigation into the emergence and growth of the New Right in Israel. It delves into the historical and sociological foundations, diverse components, associated political entities, and complex ideological discourse of this movement. Additionally, the book scrutinizes the political and colonial aims of the New Right, its efforts to shape Israel's identity, and its project to dismantle the Palestinian issue.
The book examines how globalization and concerns related to national and cultural identities have contributed to the rise of the New Right. This phenomenon is placed within the context of neoliberalism and significant geopolitical events such as the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Furthermore, the book highlights the transformation from anti-Semitism to anti-Islam sentiments within the New Right and its association with the global extreme Right.
The book is divided into two main sections. It starts with Dr. Honaida Ghanim's contribution, which provides readers with a strong theoretical and historical foundation. This section consists of two distinct chapters. The first chapter meticulously analyzes the New Right's emergence globally, explaining its ideological and political intersections with Israel. The second chapter offers a comprehensive examination of the New Right in Israel, placing it within the broader ideological framework of Zionism. This analysis extends to cover the prominent streams within the New Right, the associated political parties, affiliated groups, and their respective support networks.
The book's second section comprises case studies that shed light on various aspects of the New Right phenomenon. Abd al-Qadir Badawi examines the rise of right-wing civil society organizations and their pivotal role in shaping public discourse, advancing settlement activities, and promoting far-right hegemony. Muhannad Mustafa's contribution delves into the changes within Religious Zionism, highlighting the dynamics of pluralism and fragmentation, including the emergence of new currents such as the Hardalim (ultra-Orthodox nationalists). Walid Habba's chapter offers perspectives on the rise of the Haredim and the implications of their ascendancy for Israeli society's continuous shift towards the extreme religious and nationalist right. Barhoum Jeraisy examines the evolving dynamics within Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) society, highlighting its gradual shift towards more conservative, right-leaning ideologies influenced by ongoing sociological changes. Alaa Salama investigates the intricate relationship between Evangelical Zionism in the United States and Israel, emphasizing the intersections and interactions between these two entities, and Antoine Shalhat explores the interplay between New Zionism and the New Right, elucidating the dynamics of their mutual influence.
Spanning 308 pages, this book serves as a valuable scholarly resource, providing profound insights into the intricate landscape of the New Right in Israel. Its comprehensive exploration of ideological underpinnings, societal impact, and political implications, particularly within the context of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, establishes it as an indispensable contribution to Israeli studies.
