The Corona Crisis and Israel’s National Security
The Corona Crisis and Israel’s National Security

Author(s): Itai Brun, Yael Gat
Subject(s): Politics, Security and defense, Welfare systems, Health and medicine and law
Published by: Mednarodni inštitut za bližnjevzhodne in balkanske študije IFIMES
Keywords: Israel; National Security; Corona crisis; COVID-19;
Summary/Abstract: A seminar at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) on political and security implications of the corona crisis underscored the prevalent uncertainty regarding the situation, but also highlighted several instructive points. The biggest threat to the global (and Israeli) economy derives from the slowdown or negative growth in the United States, and at the current stage, the American ability to meet the crisis effectively is not clear. As for Israel, the risks of escalation in the northern arena and the Gaza Strip have decreased in the short term, but toughening the restrictions on the border crossings with the Palestinian Authority could lead to its economic collapse. The combination in Israel of a political crisis, the budget deficit, multiple security challenges, and the coronavirus outbreak is highly problematic, and a continuation of the crisis beyond the next two-three months could mean negative annual growth. The IDF could be called on for extensive assistance to the civilian front for a long period, yet while needing to maintain its fitness and readiness.

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