In a recent article by Israeli writer Gideon Levy, published in Haaretz, he describes Israeli society as experiencing a 'collective addiction to wars.' He highlights that every new military conflict is portrayed as the definitive answer to ongoing existential threats, only to quickly become another episode in a seemingly endless series of conflicts. This addiction is underpinned by a media and political discourse that recycles the same narratives and promises of victory with each escalation, leading to a cycle where the societal memory of past conflicts is lost, leaving the populace 'stunned from one war to another.'

Levy points out that there is a troubling pattern in the public discourse where each war begins with almost universal consensus among politicians and analysts, who proclaim a sense of national unity and an impending victory. Public sentiment is often rallying behind these sentiments, with expressions of anticipation for what is framed as a 'complete victory' against adversaries. However, with each subsequent conflict, the same questions emerge, seeking alternative solutions or questioning the inevitability of military action, making it clear that the cycle continues without resolution.

As Levy observes, the historical context of these wars seems increasingly forgotten, as past promises of decisive outcomes fade with the onset of new confrontations. He argues that this suggests a deeper societal issue within Israel, reflecting a collective memory that short-circuits when faced with the immediate pressures of warfare, perpetuating the very cycle of violence harmful to both Israeli society and its geopolitical situation.