Rosh Hashanah 2026: What does ‘shana tova’ mean in an Israel divided by politics? - opinion

As Israelis observe Rosh Hashanah in 2026, the traditional New Year greeting of "shana tova" coincides with a period of deep political division within the country. While citizens share the common seasonal greeting, their underlying visions for the future of the nation sharply diverge.

The juxtaposition of the unifying holiday wish against a backdrop of domestic political polarization highlights the ongoing ideological fractures within Israeli society.