Jonathan, a queer Lebanese Christian, shares his journey from war-torn Lebanon to Israel. He discusses the challenges of navigating life in a new homeland and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and peace in a conflict-ridden region. Topics include religious diversity in Lebanon, the rise of Hezbollah, growing up as a Lebanese Christian in Israel, citizenship status, the political climate in Israel, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and the importance of education for peace.
Israel provides equal protection and rights to its diverse minority population, including Arab Christians and Jewish individuals from Arab and Muslim countries.
Israel's commitment to diversity and equal treatment counters false narratives of it being an apartheid state or a perpetrator of mass atrocities.
Israel's military presence in south Lebanon aimed to eliminate terrorist organizations, but withdrawal led to Hezbollah's takeover and the suffering of the South Lebanese Army and local population.
Deep dives
Growing up in Israel as a Lebanese Christian
The speaker shares their experience of growing up as a Lebanese Christian in Israel, highlighting the diversity of the country's population and the acceptance they received. Despite the initial challenges of language barriers and cultural differences, they received support from their school and community. They also discuss the rights and citizenship they were granted as an Israeli citizen and the contrast with the treatment of refugees in neighboring Arab countries.
Israel's treatment of minorities
The speaker emphasizes that Israel has a significant minority population, with 25% of its citizens being non-Jewish. They highlight the diverse backgrounds of these minorities, including Arab Christians like themselves, and Jewish individuals from Arab and Muslim countries. The speaker explains that Israel provides equal protection and rights to its minorities, contrasting this with the persecution of minority groups in other Middle Eastern countries.
Misconceptions about Israel's political climate
The speaker addresses misconceptions about Israel's political climate, including the portrayal of Israel as an apartheid state or a perpetrator of mass atrocities. They argue that Israel's commitment to diversity and equal treatment counters these false narratives. The speaker urges a better understanding of Israel's context as a safe haven for persecuted minorities, including Jewish communities and non-Jewish minority groups.
Israel's intentions in Lebanon
Israel's intentions in south Lebanon were not to occupy the territory, but rather to have a military presence and ensure the elimination of terrorist organizations. However, the peace agreement with Lebanon in 1983 failed due to pressure from Syria. This led Israel to a one-sided withdrawal from south Lebanon, leaving the area vulnerable to Hezbollah's takeover.
Hezbollah's control in Lebanon
After Israel's withdrawal, Hezbollah quickly entered the villages and bases in south Lebanon. Chaos ensued as people from the South Lebanese Army realized the IDF had left, prompting them to flee their homes and seek refuge in Israel. Hezbollah instituted brutal tactics, including torture and killings, to establish dominance over the region. Today, Hezbollah controls significant parts of Lebanon, while the Lebanese government and military struggle to counter their power.
🛡️ From Lebanon to Israel: Jonathan shares his harrowing journey from the war-torn villages of Lebanon to the bustling streets of Israel. Discover the complexities of navigating life as a Lebanese Christian in a new homeland, and the unexpected challenges and triumphs that define his journey.
🏳️🌈 Identity & Advocacy: Hear how Jonathan confronts challenges, champions LGBTQ+ rights, and advocates for peace and understanding in a region rife with conflict.
Season 2 of "Faking It" isn't just a podcast; it's a revolution. Be part of the story. Drop your ideas, join the convo, and let's make this season EPIC! 🌈✨
📢 Got Questions? Need Advice? Hit Miriam up at https://www.speakpipe.com/FakingIt
- your story could be featured next! . Your voice matters!