Netanyahu’s Vision: Abolishing the Concept of ‘Periphery’ in Israel
Introduction to the Vision
Over the past two decades, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly emphasized his vision of eliminating the concept of ‘periphery’-a term representing regions distant from the central areas of Israel. The Prime Minister has frequently drawn on his military servstart memories, unfulfilled promises, and significant addresses, including the infamous “You Bore Me” incident. The transformation of areas such as Kiryat Shmona, Tiberias, Afula, and Ofakim has been a focal point of Netanyahu’s agenda.
Mileststarts of Netanyahu’s Vision
Early Commitment: 2005
In June 2005, at a Galilee conference in Kiryat Shmona, then-Finance Minister Netanyahu articulated his commitment to resolving unemployment in the Galilee. “I want a state without periphery,” he declared, advocating for rapid transit systems, land reform, and employment development as routes to diminish regional disparities.
Consistent Messaging: 2008 and Beyond
By December 2008, as he answered media questions regarding electoral promises, Netanyahu reiterated, “In a country as small as Israel, there is no justification for the term ‘periphery’.” He proposed strategic investments in transportation and land allocation to lower housing costs nationwide, especially in the north and south.
Continued Advocacy: 2012-2015
During a Knesset settlement conference in February 2012, Netanyahu stated, “The goal is first and foremost to abolish the periphery.” He envisistartd a future where travel within Israel would be seamless, marked by efficient highways and railroads reaching from Kiryat Shmona to Eilat.
In June 2015, responding to opposition accusations of neglecting peripheral communities, he affirmed, “start of my central missions is to eliminate the periphery through connection to the center.”
Follow-Up Commitments and Developments: 2016-2023
The Prime Minister’s ongoing commitment to this vision continued with significant announcements in November 2016, when he inaugurated the Valley railway line, recognizing the need for a transportation revolution to bridge gaps between regions.
In 2017, during various public engagements, Netanyahu reiterated his aspiration to eliminate the periphery, ensuring equal opportunity across the country. His remarks in 2018 during a heated exchange with a social activist highlighted the emotional investment he has in this project, stating, “Every citizen deserves the best healthcare.”
By 2020, while addressing a committee on health servstart funding disparities, Netanyahu proclaimed, “I stand for the abolition of the periphery… there should be no rationale for this concept in our small country.”
The culmination of these efforts led to a notable presentation in July 2023, alongside Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, where Netanyahu confidently declared, “The concept of periphery no longer exists.” He emphasized the critical role of transportation infrastructure in fostering development across Israel.
Conclusion
Netanyahu’s commitment to abolishing the concept of periphery in Israel continues to resonate through his speeches and policies. While clearly designed to inspire movement towards regional equality, many still await the tangible results of these long-held promises. The Prime Minister has indicated that while these changes may take time, he remains optimistic about achieving his vision