This is the first comprehensive examination of the evolution of executive governance in Israel. The book describes and analyzes the political and bureaucratic structures and processes that led to the predominance of the executive in policymaking and governance. It also analyzes recent political and administrative reforms and their consequences on the Knesset, political parties, governing coalitions and non-elected public authorities.

Public opinion has played a crucial role in the transitions from war to peace in Israel since the 1967 Six Day War. Security Threatened is the first major analysis of the interactions among opinion, politics and policy in that period, based on opinion surveys of thousands of adult Jews conducted between 1962 and 1994. The public divided during those years into militant hardliners and more conciliatory security positions, and power either shifted between, or was shared by, the Likud and Labor parties.

A guide to Israel's rich past, unpredictable present, and promising but undoubtedly turbulent future. Informed by opinion polls, survey data, and election results, it clarifies the major issues facing Israeli culture and politics, and explains the complexities of Israel's political institutions, political behavior, and public policies.