In this engaging discussion, bestselling author and journalist Matti Friedman reflects on the somber one-year anniversary of October 7th, navigating the grief felt in Israeli society and among Diaspora communities. He shares insights on the complexities of the ongoing Gaza conflict, contrasting military actions with the aspirations of the younger generation for change. Friedman also delves into the challenges of narrative manipulation in global discourse about Israel, emphasizing the importance of understanding the region's unique histories. Hope and resilience in the Jewish community take center stage amidst adversity.
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Matti Friedman's Personal Experience
Matti Friedman was surprised by his emotional reaction to the one-year anniversary.
He hadn't planned to mark it, feeling the war was still ongoing, but found the day very dark and upsetting.
insights INSIGHT
Israeli Societal Divide
Israeli society is deeply divided regarding the current government and the ongoing war.
This division is reflected in the existence of dual memorial ceremonies, one for families of victims and an official state ceremony.
insights INSIGHT
American Jewish Experience
Dan Senor finds the situation for American Jews more alarming than the situation in Israel, citing a rise in antisemitism.
He describes a climate of fear and hostility, with protests and even colleagues questioning how to interact with Jewish people.
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This past Monday marked the grim one-year anniversary of October 7th. Around the world, Jewish communities gathered to memorialize a war still being fought.
How did Israeli society experience this grief, and how did Diaspora communities memorialize? What are Israelis going through that we might not be able to see from a distance? And what are Diaspora communities going through that Israelis may not see?
To discuss, we are joined by Matti Friedman, who is one of the most thoughtful writers when it comes to all matters related to Israel, the broader Middle East, and also trends in the world of journalism. He is a columnist for The Free Press: https://www.thefp.com/
Matti’s most recent book is called “Who by Fire: Leonard Cohen in the Sinai.” Before that he published "Spies of No Country: Secret Lives at the Birth of Israel," and before that "Pumpkinflowers: A Soldier’s Story of a Forgotten War.” Matti’s army service included tours in Lebanon. His work as a reporter has taken him from Israel to Lebanon, and other hotspots across the Middle East and around the world. He is a former Associated Press correspondent and essayist for the New York Times opinion section.
Matti’s book referenced in the episode: “Pumpkinflowers: A Soldier’s Story of a Forgotten War” — https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pumpkinflowers-matti-friedman/1122279367?ean=9781616206918
Call Me Back - with Dan Senor 
