In fact, in something of a paradox, there is one point on which both sides implicitly agree. Both alike have very limited faith in the powers of civil society. The army, including both those in regular service and in the reserves, sets the national agenda in Israel. The generals and the personnel of the secret services have a say in matters of education and policy, local government and the economy. It is they who set security policy, or oppose it when they retire. Their voice is heard loud and clear thanks to their uniform, thanks to their wings, thanks to the bloodshed they perpetrate in our name and for our sake.