Last week, thousands of Israeli soldiers received call-up orders during Rosh Hashanah, only to find themselves stranded without transportation to their bases due to the holiday. The lack of government assistance left reservists and regular soldiers scrambling to find rides, highlighting the disconnect between the state and its citizens.
In a stark contrast, the government prioritized organizing dozens of flights for Uman pilgrims, showcasing a clear disregard for the needs of the military and stranded Israelis. The situation is emblematic of a larger issue where political interests take precedence over the well-being of average citizens.
As the government neglects crucial transportation arrangements for soldiers and favors passing laws to exempt certain groups from military service, it becomes evident that a shift in priorities is needed. The need for societal reform is pressing, especially after recent emergencies exposed flaws in the system.
It’s time for Israel to prioritize the needs of its soldiers and citizens over political alliances. The country must come together to address systemic issues and ensure a fair distribution of responsibilities for the betterment of society.
The writer is a senior fellow at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI) and a former editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post.