Tzipi Livni’s Israel
If Tzipi Livni manages to rebuild Olmert’s coalition and become Israel’s next prime minister, her initial credit at home and abroad will be outstanding. The reason is that Livni is the quintessential envoy of “Middle Israel” – the heartland of a successful and moderate civil society flanked by extremism and rage.
HAIFA – Famously irreverent, Israelis tend to call their leaders by their first name or childhood nickname. But don’t be fooled: Tzipi (Tzipora) Livni is nobody’s close friend. Her dry style, personal remoteness, and forced smiles make her an atypical Israeli. Perhaps the country needs exactly this just now: an atypical Israeli at the steering wheel.