Israeli society has been moving further to the right, with widespread support for a racist state, according to Israeli historian Ilan Pappe. Pappe, a prominent expert on Israeli politics and society, made the statement in a recent interview, highlighting the growing trend of right-wing ideology in the country.

Pappe attributed the shift to the increasing influence of far-right parties in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and the rise of extremist groups within Israeli society. "The current government is the most right-wing in Israeli history, and it's not just a matter of policy, but a fundamental transformation of the Israeli identity," Pappe said. He added that this transformation is not limited to the government, but is also reflected in the broader Israeli public, with many citizens embracing racist and nationalist ideologies.

The growing trend of right-wing ideology in Israel has significant implications for the country's politics and society. Pappe noted that the increasing support for racist policies and ideologies is a major concern, not only for the Palestinian minority in Israel but also for the country's Jewish citizens. "The normalization of racism and xenophobia in Israeli society is a threat to the very fabric of democracy and the rule of law," Pappe warned.

Pappe's comments come ahead of the 2026 elections, which are expected to be highly contested. The elections will be a crucial test for the Israeli right-wing parties, which have been gaining momentum in recent years. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for the country's politics, with potential consequences for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the country's relations with the international community.

In response to Pappe's comments, some Israeli politicians have defended the country's right-wing policies, arguing that they are necessary to ensure Israel's security and prosperity. However, critics argue that these policies are contributing to the growing polarization and extremism in Israeli society.

As the 2026 elections approach, the Israeli public is likely to be increasingly divided along ideological lines. Pappe's warnings about the dangers of right-wing ideology in Israel are a reminder of the need for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to politics and society. The outcome of the elections will be closely watched by both Israelis and international observers, who will be eager to see whether the country can find a way to balance its security concerns with its democratic values.