The Audio Long Read
Kahane’s ghost: how a long-dead extremist rabbi continues to haunt Israel’s politics
Apr 18, 2025
In this engaging discourse, Kerry Shale reads Joshua Leifer's article on the chilling legacy of Meir Kahane, an extremist rabbi who, despite dying 35 years ago, still influences Israeli politics. They discuss how Kahane's violent ideologies resonate with contemporary political movements and the normalization of radical beliefs. The conversation highlights the persistent threat of extremism in Israeli society, the unsettling proposals regarding Gaza, and the impact of Kahanism on political alliances, showcasing a dangerous shift in rhetoric and policy.
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Quick takeaways
- Kahane's extremist ethno-nationalism has resurfaced in Israeli politics, influencing mainstream governance and normalizing radical rhetoric against Palestinians.
- The rise of Kahanism parallels increased violence and conflict in Israel, with top officials adopting policies that reflect extremist ideologies.
Deep dives
The Life and Ideology of Mayor Kahana
Mayor Kahana, a far-right Israeli politician and extremist rabbi, promoted a radical form of ethno-nationalism intertwined with religious fundamentalism. He strongly believed in violent measures against Palestinians, advocating for their expulsion from territories under Israeli control, which he deemed vital for preserving a Jewish state. His political party, Kach, made such ideas the centerpiece of its agenda, proposing measures such as criminalizing Jewish-Arab marriages and enforcing religious laws. Despite his controversial views and violent ideology, Kahana's political career was marred by failures and rejection from mainstream politics, culminating in his assassination in 1990.
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