The Rest Is Politics: Leading 68. Israel-Gaza: How the conflict divided Britain and the US, with Ed Kessler
6 snips
Apr 7, 2024 Ed Kessler, a leading expert in interfaith relations, discusses the generational split over Israel-Gaza, the role of Qatar in Middle East peace, and how international conflicts become domestic. The conversation covers the complexities of the Israel-Gaza conflict, fostering dialogue among Jews, Christians, and Muslims, navigating cultural tensions in authoritarian regimes and US universities, and the importance of communication and optimism in peace processes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kessler's Upbringing
- Ed Kessler's parents were Viennese refugees, a background relevant to his current work chairing a commission on refugee integration.
- He grew up in Southgate, North London, and attended a local primary school before a public school and university.
Path to Religious Studies
- Kessler planned to study Hebrew after working on a kibbutz.
- Due to Thatcher-era cuts, the Hebrew department closed, leading him to study religious studies instead.
Modern Antisemitism and Zionism
- Modern antisemitism often centers around Israel and Zionism.
- Interfaith dialogue often struggles with addressing these difficult differences effectively.