> As Americans living post-9/11 will know, “national security” is a deliberately elastic term that can cover anything required in the moment. One of the genuin

> As Americans living post-9/11 will know, “national security” is a deliberately elastic term that can cover anything required in the moment. One of the genuine cultural differences between the US and Israel is that while Americans prefer greater liberty (even if it means less security), Israelis prefer greater security (even if it means less liberty). Which is to say, both cultures appreciate both values, but they have different priorities. Israel is a country where you will have your bags searched before entering shopping malls or train stations. That Israelis' privacy is violated on a daily basis by other Israelis is popular. There is a sense that the privacy violations are genuinely needed, result in genuine protection, and are not abused by those in power.