Dr. Tal Becker discusses uncertainty in Israeli society, conflicts with Hamas, and displaced Israelis. The conversation delves into celebrating Independence Day amidst tensions, solidarity, and challenges like anti-Semitism. They explore Israel's quest for safety, unity in crises, strategic objectives, power dynamics in conflict, and the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
Israel prioritizes moving beyond victimhood as a core identity in conflicts with Palestinians.
Israeli society faces uncertainty post-war with Hamas, displaced citizens, and Hezbollah conflicts.
Dr. Tal Becker's diplomatic contributions highlight insights into Israel's deep uncertainties and challenges.
Deep dives
Redefining Victimhood and Power in the Israeli-Palestinian Discourse
The podcast episode delves into the concept that Israel and Zionism represent a refusal to be victims and emphasize that victimhood is not a virtue but a condition. It highlights the importance of moving beyond a zero-sum contest of victimhood and focusing on emerging without victimhood as a core identity. The discourse aims to navigate the complexities of victim narratives, especially in dialogues with Palestinians, and stresses the desire to transcend perpetual victimhood.
Uncertainty and Deep Societal Unrest in Israeli Society
The episode explores the profound uncertainty prevailing in Israeli society, particularly post-war situations with Hamas, the issue of displaced Israelis, and looming conflicts with Hezbollah. The podcast acknowledges the complexities of Israeli society and the uncertainties regarding hostage returns, combating terrorism, and finding long-term solutions for conflicts with Palestinians and Iran.
Critical Role of Dr. Tal Becker in Shaping Israeli Policy and Society
Dr. Tal Becker's significant contributions to Israeli diplomacy and peace negotiations are highlighted. His experience as a former legal advisor of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and involvement in peace negotiations underscores his unique insights into Israeli society's deep-rooted uncertainties and challenges. Dr. Becker's role in shaping Israeli policy and international engagements, including his involvement in the Abraham Accords, showcases his impact on Israel's diplomatic landscape.
Navigating Israeli Independence and Collective Trauma
The podcast examines Israel's Independence Day celebrations amid challenges and trauma faced by the nation. It delves into the complexities of Israeli society's response to ongoing crises and the shifting dynamics post-October 7th. The discussion reflects on the evolving narratives of victimhood, power, and societal cohesion within Israeli society, fueling debates on the country's future trajectory.
Towards a Reimagined Middle East and Israeli-Arab Relations
The episode envisions a redefined Middle East landscape focused on coexistence, mutual respect, and stability. It highlights the competition between Israel's vision of coexistence, as seen in the Abraham Accords, and the resistance ideologies of Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas. Dr. Becker emphasizes the importance of reshaping regional dynamics to promote inclusivity and collaboration, underscoring the transformative potential of Israeli-Arab relations.
Empowering Norm Entrepreneurs for Positive Societal Change
Dr. Becker discusses the role of norm entrepreneurs in fostering societal shifts towards peace and inclusivity. Drawing parallels with global movements for change, the episode emphasizes the need for courageous voices to challenge divisive narratives and articulate shared visions. The conversation extends to the significance of cultivating societal dialogue and advocating for values that promote understanding, empathy, and constructive change amidst regional conflicts.
HOUSEKEEPING NOTE: The first "Call Me Back" Live Event will take place on Monday June 3 at 6:00 pm at the Comedy Cellar in New York City. At the event -- which will ultimately be posted as an episode -- we will be talking to Michael Rapaport about the crisis of antisemitism in America and what it means for Israel and for American Jews. Partial proceeds for the event will go to Lev Echad ("One Heart"), an Israeli non-profit organization that has been doing indispensable work, especially since 10/07. To RSVP, please go to comedycellar.com, click the lineups button on the top left and select June 3. (There will also be an opportunity for audience questions and discussion following the formal conversation, and an extended smaller private event afterwards for those interested.)
TODAY'S EPISODE: As Independence Day was winding down in Israel, I sat down for a conversation with Tal Becker in Jerusalem to discuss the deep uncertainty in Israeli society: we don’t know when or if the hostages will return home, we don’t when or if Hamas will be defeated, or even when or if the 100,000 displaced Israelis will return to their homes in the South and in the North. We don't know if a war with Hezbollah is next, and we certainly don’t know if and what could be a long term solution for the Palestinian conflict with Israel or Iran’s conflict with Israel.
Dr. Tal Becker serves as a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem and was the former Legal Adviser of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is a veteran member of successive Israeli peace negotiation teams and, most recently, represented Israel before the International Court of Justice and played an instrumental role in negotiating and drafting the historic peace and normalization agreements (the "Abraham Accords"). Dr. Becker earned his doctorate from Columbia University in New York City, and is the recipient of numerous scholarly awards, including the Rabin Peace Prize, and the Guggenheim Prize for best international law book for his book "Terrorism and the State".
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