Discussions include the contrasting perspectives on civilian casualties in Gaza between Israelis and North American Jews, emotions and mindset of Israeli writers during the war, distinguishing rage from vengeance, contrasting views on the Gaza War and the humanitarian crisis, and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in Israel.
25:00
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Quick takeaways
Divergent perspectives between Israelis and North American Jews on the Israel-Hamas War reflect conflicting concerns over Israeli casualties and civilian casualties in Gaza.
There is a call for Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and prioritize the protection of vulnerable Gazan civilians while pursuing its military objectives.
Deep dives
The Emotional Power of Chanukah in Times of War
The podcast hosts discuss the emotional significance of the Chanukah holiday during the ongoing war in Israel. They reflect on the power of lighting the candles, connecting with the Jewish people, and finding strength in the rituals amidst the difficult circumstances.
The Israeli Experience vs. Diaspora Jewry's Perspective
The hosts explore the difference in mindset between Israelis and diaspora Jews in relation to the ongoing war. They discuss the dominant emotions of rage, fear, and self-righteousness among Israelis, while acknowledging that external criticism and judgments impact their own self-perception. The hosts also touch upon the idea of vengeance and the importance of moral self-reflection in the midst of conflict.
The Lack of Focus on Gazan Civilian Consequences
The podcast raises the issue of the lack of conversation around Gazan civilians and the humanitarian crisis in Israel. While recognizing Israel's military objectives and the need to ensure self-defense, the hosts argue for a greater acknowledgement of the suffering and consequences faced by Gazan civilians. They call for Israel to take a proactive role in addressing the crisis and emphasizing the moral responsibility to protect vulnerable human beings.
As we enter the ninth week and a new, post-ceasefire phase of the Israel-Hamas War, the gap between Israeli and North American Jewish perspectives continue to widen. While Israelis count and mourn each Israeli casualty, North American Jews are increasingly demanding greater consideration for civilian casualties in Gaza as well as the humanitarian crisis there. In this episode, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the experiences shaping these divergent perspectives and how Israelis might approach concern over civilian life and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as they fight for the existence of Israel.
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Correction: When Donniel Hartman references the testimony of the three university presidents (min 2:38), he mistakenly lists Yale University instead of University of Pennsylvania.