Jerusalem's economic rift: A warning for the rest of Israel

Esti Ayalon Kovo, running in the 21st slot on the B'Yachad list, says the economic and social divides visible in Jerusalem are now spreading across Israel. The former head of Israel's Economic Mission in China argues that the capital serves as a cautionary example for the rest of the country ahead of the 2026 Knesset elections.

Ayalon Kovo, who was born in Ethiopia before immigrating to Israel, pointed to specific conflicts in the capital where the interests of the powerful Haredi community clashed with those of other residents. She stated that similar dynamics are emerging nationwide, creating what she described as a state within a state. This structure, she said, persists around military enlistment, education, and workforce participation.

The candidate said her decision to run for office was motivated primarily by her children. The family moved to the Beit Hakerem neighborhood in Jerusalem after her children were accepted to a local school. "I couldn't imagine being anywhere else," she said of the city, adding that it is never boring. She explained that she sees an immediate need for serious repair and effective governance to address the country's basic challenges.

Ayalon Kovo identified two defining issues for the upcoming campaign. The first is a lack of leadership that takes responsibility, which she linked to recent failures including October 7 and the Flydubai hijacking. The second issue is preserving Israel as a liberal, Zionist, Jewish, and democratic state. She believes that Naftali Bennett, who leads the B'Yachad list, is the only figure capable of delivering the necessary changes.

If the Haredi enclave is not dismantled, Ayalon Kovo warned that the troubling economic, educational, and social trends seen in Jerusalem will spread throughout the country. She emphasized that the country requires thorough plans for its basic challenges, arguing that the current situation demands immediate action rather than gradual reform.

In a message to immigrants, or olim, who wish to influence Israeli public life, Ayalon Kovo urged them to take an active part in shaping the country's future. "You didn't come here to sit back and watch Israel's story unfold," she said. She described getting involved in elections as a good starting point for those who want to contribute to the nation's development.

Ayalon Kovo added that the B'Yachad list would welcome anyone seeking change and repair after what she described as difficult past few years. The interview, conducted before the elections, highlighted her transition from diplomacy to politics, a move she said was driven by a long-standing desire to represent Israel on the world stage.