Likud Party

The Israeli Likud political party, founded in 1973, is a major center-right to right-wing political entity in Israel. It emerged from a coalition of several right-wing parties, uniting under the leadership of Menachem Begin. Likud's ideological foundation…   is deeply rooted in Revisionist Zionism, a nationalist movement that sought a Jewish state on both banks of the Jordan River and emphasized the Jewish right to sovereignty and self-defense.<br /><br />Likud values prioritize the security and territorial integrity of Israel, often advocating for strong military policies and a tough stance against terrorism. The party has historically been skeptical of relinquishing control over territories captured by Israel, particularly concerning the West Bank and Gaza Strip, viewing these areas as vital to the nation's security and as part of the historical Jewish homeland. This perspective has influenced its approach to peace processes and negotiations with the Palestinians, favoring direct negotiations but with a cautious approach to concessions.<br /><br />Economically, Likud supports free-market policies, aiming to reduce government intervention and encourage private enterprise. Over the years, it has implemented reforms to liberalize the Israeli economy, including privatization of state-owned companies and deregulation, to foster economic growth and development.<br /><br />Socially, while the party has conservative elements, its focus has primarily been on national and security issues, with less emphasis on religious matters compared to some other right-wing parties in Israel. Likud has a diverse base of support, including secular and religious Jews, and its leaders have varied in their approach to issues like Jewish settlement in the occupied territories, relations with Arab neighbors, and the balance between being a Jewish state and a democratic state.<br /><br />Under the leadership of figures like Menachem Begin, Yitzhak Shamir, Ariel Sharon, and Benjamin Netanyahu, Likud has shaped Israel's domestic and foreign policy landscape significantly. Its tenure in government has seen the signing of the peace treaty with Egypt, the development of Israel's economy into a high-tech powerhouse, and the management of complex relationships with the United States, the Palestinians, and other Middle Eastern nations. Despite controversies and challenges, including debates over its policies and leadership, Likud remains a central force in Israeli politics, advocating for a secure, prosperous, and Jewish democratic state.Read more