Tel Aviv:Retired Israeli Major General Itzhak Brik has issued a stark warning, asserting that Israel is on the brink of an irreversible collapse encompassing its military, economy, and institutions. Brik emphasized that the nation has lost international legitimacy and allies, rendering it incapable of enduring prolonged isolation.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Brik elaborated on his views in an opinion article published by Israel's Maariv daily, where he portrayed the situation as a comprehensive collapse rather than merely a political crisis. He criticized media coverage of recent parliamentary elections, likening it to an orchestra playing as the Titanic sank, for failing to address deeper systemic issues.
Brik, with a background as a commander of military colleges and the Ministry of Defense's Ombudsman for Soldiers' Complaints, stated that Israel has become an international pariah. He pointed to a structural collapse in the country's ground forces and a breakdown in morale, suggesting they are ill-equipped to defend against simultaneous internal and external threats.
The retired general also highlighted the financial strain caused by prolonged warfare, with national debt reaching 1.4 trillion shekels ($445 billion). He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to use cryptocurrencies to mitigate potential European sanctions, warning that further economic decline could threaten citizens' savings.
Domestically, Brik described a 'silent civil war' within Israeli society, noting an exodus of skilled professionals such as doctors and scientists, which he claims is depleting long-established expertise. He accused political leaders of undermining the rule of law and prioritizing political loyalty over competence.
The recent elections resulted in Netanyahu's bloc securing 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, falling short of the 61-seat majority, with the opposition bloc and Arab parties holding 48 and 19 seats, respectively.