Politics, especially related to security and the putative peace process, have always dominated Israeli public life. They became, inevitably, an end in themselves, consuming immense energies and resources. As a result, Israel neglected its many economic and social problems, with negative repercussions on security and peace as well.

The present political turmoil in Israel over the reshuffling of Sharon’s coalition is a good example. It seems that for the sake of an uncertain disengagement plan – a unilateral withdrawal, really – Sharon is going to threaten the one major achievement of his coalition: an economic reform that will greatly strengthen Israel and also enhance its ability to make peace.

My previous column, “NIF’s not-so-hidden political agenda” (14 August 2003) claimed that the New Israel’s Fund website misrepresented its Negev Beduin program as yet another civil rights initiative. I thought it was a calculated effort to radicalize the Beduin and provoke a confrontation between an erstwhile loyal community and Israel.

Through its Shatil executive arm the New Israel Fund has supported Beduin who break Israeli law by seizing strategic government land, apparently with Palestinian Authority help and encouragement. Shatil activists named this project “The Palestinian Project,” even though the Beduin are Israeli citizens, not Palestinian ones. In this way they try further to erode Beduin fealty to Israel and transfer it to the PA.