In Israel, the traditional political labels of 'left' and 'right' function differently than in many Western democracies. While European or American politics often prioritize fiscal policy, tax brackets, or social welfare programs, the Israeli spectrum is almost entirely dominated by security and foreign policy concerns.

At the core of this divide is the question of the Palestinian territories. The political right in Israel generally advocates for maintaining control over the West Bank, often supporting settlement expansion and prioritizing national security through a robust military presence. Conversely, the political left typically emphasizes the necessity of a two-state solution, advocating for territorial concessions in exchange for long-term peace and security.

Because these positions are tied to the country's existential security concerns, the divide is deeply emotional and often dictates coalition building. While some parties attempt to introduce economic platforms—such as social justice or market liberalization—these issues frequently take a backseat to the overarching debate regarding the occupation. Consequently, voters often align themselves based on their vision for Israel’s borders and its relationship with the Palestinian people, rather than their stance on domestic economic management.