Israel At 50

The Jewish state has come a long way since its founding on May 14, 1948. But while Israel's survival is no longer in question, it nonetheless faces several difficult issues. The country is divided over how much land and sovereignty should be given to the Palestinian Arabs in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Repeated political crises are causing many Israelis to ask if the just-reformed political system should again be changed. In addition, Israel's relations with the American Jewish community have been strained of late over the peace process and other issues. And, finally, there is growing division among Israelis themselves. In particular, the country's secular majority is becoming increasingly impatient with the agenda of Israel's more religious citizens.