Israel At War: Week VI - with Amos Harel & Dan Senor
Nov 17, 2023
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Former Pentagon official Dan Senor, author of The Genius of Israel, joins Yonit and Jonathan to discuss the resilience of Israel. They also explore the ongoing war, political accountability, calls for Netanyahu's resignation, the Al Shufa Hospital situation, the largest pro-Israel demonstration in US history, and the societal shock absorbers that contribute to Israel's resilience.
The emotional toll of the war on Israel and the challenges faced by families and the military.
Concerns about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's refusal to resign and the potential impact on political stability.
The role of national service in fostering resilience and unity within Israeli society.
Deep dives
The Mood in Israel after Six Weeks of War
After six weeks of war between Israel and Hamas, the mood in Israel remains gloomy and filled with sorrow and worry. As a conscription army, many young people, including reservists, are fighting in the war, causing anxiety among their parents. The tragic events of October 7th, including the loss of innocent lives, continue to haunt the country. While there is hope for hostages to be released in a potential deal, the window of opportunity may be closing. Overall, the podcast highlights the emotional toll on the nation and the challenges faced by families and the military.
The Political Situation in Israel
The podcast touches on the political landscape in Israel during the war. Opposition leader Yair Lapid calls for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's immediate resignation, although a constructive no-confidence motion seems unlikely to succeed. Netanyahu maintains that the responsibility for the conflict lies with the military brass, not him personally. There is a growing rage against Netanyahu, and his chief of staff is reportedly gathering classified material to prove his innocence. The discussion focuses on concerns about Netanyahu's refusal to resign, the potential impact on political stability, and the need for accountability.
Assessment of the War's Progress and Challenges
Military analyst Amos Harel provides insight into the progress and challenges of the war. It is noted that Hamas is having a hard time defending against the Israeli military's advanced technology and intelligence. However, the conflict, with its complex urban terrain and civilian casualties, poses difficulties for the IDF as well. The discussion also highlights the ongoing threats from Hezbollah in the north and the potential for a second front to open up. The podcast raises questions about the strategy, the possibility of achieving the mission's goals, and the impact of the war on regional dynamics.
The Power of National Service in Israel
One of the main factors that contributes to the resilience and unity of Israeli society is the role of national service. In Israel, the majority of young people participate in mandatory national service, including military service. This service brings together individuals from various backgrounds, including secular and religious Jews, and fosters a sense of communal obligation and national identity. It creates opportunities for people to work together, build trust, and develop leadership skills. The shared experience of national service helps to bridge divides and prevent society from falling apart during times of crisis.
The Alliance of Jewish Voices in Solidarity with Israel
The recent conflict in Israel has brought about a strong sense of solidarity among Jews in America. Despite differing political views, many Jews, particularly those in the center-left, have been horrified by the anti-Israel sentiment and attacks on Jews. They feel a growing vulnerability and are coming together to show support for Israel. This was evident in the large pro-Israel demonstration in Washington, D.C., where hundreds of thousands of people gathered, including secular and religious Jews, to demonstrate solidarity with Israel and denounce anti-Semitism. There is a realization among many in the Jewish community that the world's reaction to the conflict has been disorienting and has shifted the focus from the barbarism of Hamas to blaming Jews for defending themselves. This shared experience has strengthened a sense of unity and solidarity among Jews.
An update on the war from the doyen of Israel’s military correspondents, Amos Harel – and, in the week of perhaps the largest pro-Israel demonstration in US history, Yonit and Jonathan talk to Dan Senor, the former Pentagon official who was the first to describe Israel as the “start-up nation” and whose new book, The Genius of Israel, argues that the country is almost uniquely resilient.
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