An Israeli-American Perspective: The Threat of Would-Be Dictators

By Shahar Masori

SAN DIEGO — Israel and the United States have different democratic structures, yet both face the danger of authoritarianism. The U.S. is characterized by a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches. Israel operates as a parliamentary democracy, where the party or coalition that controls the Knesset chooses the prime minister. These differences impact how each country might resist or succumb to authoritarian tendencies.

In the United States, we are on the brink of perhaps the most controversial election in its history. One party is led by a convicted criminal embroiled in scandal and deception, a sexual abuser, a pathological liar, and a would-be dictator.

The other party features an incumbent president willing to relinquish power for the sake of democracy, paving the way for a new generation of leaders. This contrast is stark: one candidate prioritizes personal escape from legal consequences, while the other demonstrates a commitment to democratic principles.

Similarly, in Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s relentless grip on power has deeply divided the nation. His actions echo the destructive factionalism that preceded the destruction of the Second Temple, a period marked by “Sina’t Hinam,” or pointless hate. Both the American cult-like leader and Israel’s prime minister have manipulated democratic systems to entrench their authority. They claim to be the sole saviors of their nations, positioning themselves as indispensable while eroding democratic norms. It begs the question: is democracy its own worst enemy?

In Israel’s parliamentary democracy, the Knesset, with its 120 members, is the central legislative body. Due to proportional representation, coalition governments are common, often resulting in unstable alliances and frequent elections. This system allows for a broad spectrum of political views but can also lead to government fragility.

Conversely, the U.S. employs a federal system with a clear separation of powers. Congress, comprising the House of Representatives and the Senate, and the President operate independently. This structure typically results in stable majorities, dominated by two main parties, providing predictability but often sidelining smaller parties.

Though there is a striking difference between the two countries, both can ultimately pave the way for governmental instability and the rise of authoritarianism.

Living in both countries has given me a profound understanding of how political systems shape national identity. In Israel, we have witnessed intense protests against the prime minister, challenging his authoritarian tendencies. In the U.S., we face historical questions about the future of democracy amidst rising authoritarian threats.

The differences in political systems between Israel and the U.S. highlight their unique strengths and vulnerabilities in the face of would-be dictators. Israel’s proportional representation ensures broad representation but can lead to instability. The U.S.’s majoritarian system provides stability but at the cost of excluding smaller parties. Both systems are being tested by leaders who seek to use democratic frameworks to subvert democracy itself.

In my opinion, neither the Israeli nor the American political system is inherently better equipped to resist dictatorship. Both democracies, despite their different structures, face similar vulnerabilities when confronted with leaders who exploit democratic frameworks for authoritarian purposes. The strengths and weaknesses of each system are evident, but ultimately, their ability to resist would-be dictators depends on the vigilance and resilience of their citizens and institutions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as we navigate the challenges of preserving democracy in both countries.

I, for one, am questioning more now than ever about both my countries’ futures. I hope that those who mean us harm will face judgment in accordance with the democracy they are trying to unravel.

I also would like to share my personal view of the recent assassination attempt on our own would-be dictator. There is not much I agree with that person, I personally think that he represents the worse humanity has to offer and should never ever be in any leading position.  However, there is one statement I do agree with. A few days after the assassination attempt, he alleged that he was saved by the grace of God. I agree with him; I believe it was divine intervention, but I think he was saved only to be judged by his fellow men first.  What do you think?

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Shahar Masori was raised in Hadera, Israel, and immigrated to San Diego in 2000, where he helped build a balloon decor business and raised two sons.