by Jose Nessin Abbo, Academic. Chairman (2023 – ) Fondo Ahorro de Panama (2021-2028), Chairman (2016-2020) Financial Market Strategist. Latest book (2022)
Start Up Nation
Consider the incredible scientific and technological prowess of the country, which has been nothing short of remarkable. From the Iron Dome missile defense system to groundbreaking advancements in agriculture, cybersecurity, and medicine, Israel has consistently pushed the boundaries of human achievement.
What if these innovations vanished overnight?
In a world without Israel, medical breakthroughs would be stifled. The Weizmann Institute of Science would no longer contribute to cancer research, personalized medicine, or stem cell therapies. The Hadassah Medical Center would cease to exist, depriving humanity of its expertise in trauma care and organ transplantation.
The absence of Israel’s tech ecosystem would be a global blow to innovation. Pioneering startups like Waze, Mobileye, and Check Point Software would be just the tip of the iceberg. The world would miss out on cutting-edge advancements like:
- Quantum Computing: Israel boasts several promising quantum computing startups, like Quantum Machines and QC Ware, making significant strides in this revolutionary field. Their absence would slow progress in areas like drug discovery and materials science.
- Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Israeli companies like Zebra Medical Vision and Insightec are at the forefront of applying AI to medical imaging, leading to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments. Without them, progress in healthcare AI could be hampered.
- Water Technologies: Faced with water scarcity, Israel has become a global leader in water desalination and irrigation.
- Companies like Mekorot and Netafim develop solutions critical for global water security. Their absence would be keenly felt in drought-stricken regions.
- In addition, these top-notch tech companies are also part of the roster:
- Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., a leader in cybersecurity,
- NICE Ltd. is known for its application software solutions.
- CyberArk Software Ltd. is focused on infrastructure software.
- SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. is a solar technology company.
- Tower Semiconductor Ltd. specializes in semiconductors.
- Camtek Ltd. is involved in semiconductor equipment and materials.
- Cellebrite DI Ltd. provides infrastructure software.
- Matrix IT Ltd. offers application software.
Israel’s arid landscape forced it to innovate in water management. Drip irrigation, desalination plants, and water recycling systems would vanish. Countries facing water scarcity would struggle, and famine might grip regions once sustained by Israeli agricultural expertise.
The Middle East would suffer a geographic convulsion. The loss of Israel would embolden extremist factions. The Palestinian territories would remain unresolved, perpetuating conflict. Neighboring nations would vie for dominance, destabilizing the region further. The absence of Israel as a stabilizing force would amplify the chaos.
Israel’s diplomatic reach extends far beyond its borders. Its alliances with the United States, European nations, and emerging powers would unravel, notwithstanding the recent failure by the United States to procure a resolution from the UN to free the hostages held by Hamas terrorists. The Abrahamic Accords, which fostered peace with Arab countries, would be a distant memory. The world would lose a bridge-builder in a fractured geopolitical landscape.
Israel’s contributions to literature, art, and academia would vanish. The works of Amos Oz, A.B. Yehoshua, and David Grossman would remain unwritten. The vibrant Tel Aviv arts scene would fade. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem—a bastion of knowledge—would fall silent.
Let’s set the record straight.
In a world without Israel, the tapestry of human existence would be dimmer, lacking the vibrant threads woven by its indomitable spirit. The void left by its absence would echo through the corridors of time, a testament to a nation that has consistently stood at the forefront of progress for the betterment of humankind.
Yet, challenges persist. The civilized world, if we can call it that in these times of hate, must unite resolutely against the enemies that threaten this miraculous country. In a topsy-turvy global landscape, where dangers often elude comprehension, safeguarding Israel becomes not just a duty but a collective imperative. May this extraordinary, courageous country always be cradled in the arms of peace.
The void left by Israel’s absence would extend far beyond its borders. It would be felt in academia, technology hubs, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian efforts. The absence of its vibrant mosaic of cultures, faiths, and ideas would echo across generations.
In contemplating this tragic scenario, we reaffirm the importance of safeguarding peace, fostering dialogue, and cherishing the resilience that defines nations. May the flame of hope continue to burn, illuminating our shared humanity even in the face of unthinkable challenges.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of The Bajan Observer.com