In a recent op-ed published in Haaretz, author Gideon Levy paints a grim picture of the current state of public opinion in Israel, particularly as tensions with Iran escalate. He expresses concern that rational voices are fading away from public discourse, with a prevailing narrative celebrating war as a 'blessing.' Instead of critical thinking, there is a disturbing enthusiasm for the violence associated with military actions, drawing parallels to the atmosphere during the 1967 War.

Levy highlights a troubling one-dimensionality in the media and political discussions, whereby the military is exalted and any dissent or questioning is largely absent. He argues that the public dialogue has been flattened, and an alarming lack of critical awareness is evident. With absolute loyalties taking center stage, there is a diminishing space for any conversation regarding the possibility of failure or the high costs of war, which he believes disrupts societal consensus.

Moreover, Levy criticizes the increasing influence of self-proclaimed 'experts' in media and social platforms, claiming that traditional standards of expertise have been compromised. Rather than elevating the discourse with qualified insights, the reliance on opinions from sports figures or individuals lacking genuine expertise has notably diminished professional integrity in the public debate. This troubling trend underscores a educational and qualitative decline in societal conversation, directly impacting policymaking and public perception in Israel.