Jerusalem's security outlook, which goes back to the days of Israel's first Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, is focused first and foremost on responding to existential threats to the country.
In the past, these were regular Arab armies that threatened to invade its territory. Today, the country is investing multiple efforts to thwart the Iranian nuclear threat.
The arsenal of missiles at the disposal of Hezbollah and Hamas may not constitute an existential threat, but they do have the ability to result in the loss of life and material damage, to disrupt the lives of Israeli citizens, and harm the proper function of vital systems.
In contrast to these threats, the ongoing security challenge is deemed to be of secondary importance. It may make the headlines every once, in particular following a stabbing or ramming attack.
These tend to be carried out in waves after which an imaginary calm prevails. It is doubtful, however, decision-makers have come up with a solution to this challenge, let alone given it the necessary attention.
National security, however, cannot be summed up as merely defending citizens from existential threats. It focuses on providing a sense of security that allows the state's citizens to maintain their daily routine without fear.
And so, every time terrorist attacks make life intolerable, the ongoing security challenge forces the government to respond.
This article first appeared in Israel Hayom.