Unpacking Israeli History

Host and avid basketball fan, Noam Weissman takes us courtside to one of the most iconic moments in Israeli sports history — Maccabi Tel Aviv’s historic 2004 Euroleague championship win. This isn’t just a story about basketball. It’s a deep dive into how a game became a symbol of Zionism, Israeli resilience, national pride, and cultural identity during one of the country’s darkest chapters — the Second Intifada. From Tal Brody’s legendary "We’re on the map!" speech to Anthony Parker’s dominance on the court, this episode unpacks sports, politics, and identity in Tel Aviv and beyond.Click here for the sources used in this episode.Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube.Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email noam@unpacked.media.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-------------------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsSoulful Jewish LivingStars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

Dive into the intricate history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, from the roots of Zionism to pivotal moments like the 1947 UN partition. Discover key figures like Theodor Herzl and explore the turmoil following Israel's disengagement from Gaza. The host simplifies the complex narratives while shedding light on the tragic events of October 7. This engaging summary provides essential context for understanding the ongoing strife and emphasizes the importance of nuanced dialogue.

Host Noam Weissman reflects on one of the most devastating periods since October 7, 2023-- the past week, which brought us the deaths of Oded Lifshitz and 3/4 of the Bibas family. From the abduction of Yarden, Shiri, and their young sons Ariel and Kfir at Kibbutz Nir Oz to the deceptive handling of their remains, the brutal murders have left an indelible scar on Israel. The episode draws parallels with iconic historical images like Anne Frank and Napalm Girl and honors the legacy of peace activist Oded Lifshitz, whose life work exemplified hope amid violence. Join us as we reflect on these harrowing events, expose media manipulation, and call for a future where human dignity prevails over terror.IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari's televised statement.Follow  Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email noam@unpacked.media.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-------------------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsSoulful Jewish LivingStars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

Dive into the story of the 1946 King David Hotel bombing with part two in a gripping series on an event that re-shaped British policy in Mandate Palestine and influenced the future of Israel. Host Noam Weissman unpacks the Irgun’s daring operation, the sequence of warnings and events that led to the tragic loss of 91 lives, and the political fallout. Listen to survivor testimony about the bombing and hear how this historic act of resistance —and its moral complexities—laid the groundwork for Menachem Begin’s controversial legacy.Click here for the sources used in this episode.Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email noam@unpacked.media.Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check us out on youtube.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-------------------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsSoulful Jewish LivingStars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

UIH wants to hear from you. Please fill out this survey to share your thoughts and ideas about the show. Find the survey here. In the first episode of a gripping two-part series, host Noam Weissman explores one of the most controversial events in Israel’s past: the 1946 bombing of the King David Hotel by the Irgun. Was it an act of terrorism or a necessary step in the fight for Jewish sovereignty? Through historical context, firsthand accounts, and deep analysis, we unravel the complexities of British rule in Mandate Palestine, the Jewish paramilitary response, and the ongoing debate over the moral and strategic implications of the attack.Click here for the sources used in this episode.Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email noam@unpacked.media.Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check us out on youtube.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-------------------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsSoulful Jewish LivingStars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

Delve into the multi-faceted world of Israeli settlements and their complex history shaped by the 1967 Six-Day War. Explore the emotional and ideological ties that both settlers and Palestinians have to the land, uncovering personal stories that highlight the struggles overshadowed by political decisions. The profound impact of terrorism on families creates a connection with resilience amidst tragedy. Tensions between settlers and radicals intertwine with themes of coexistence, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue.

Join host Noam Weissman as he dives into the complex history and heated debates surrounding Israeli settlements. The first installment of a special two-part series explores the immediate aftermath of the Six Day War in 1967 to the ideological motivations of the Gush Emunim movement. Noam discusses how the terms “occupied,” “disputed,” and “liberated” each carry profound political and historical weight. Learn about key players who shaped the settlement enterprise, including religious visionaries inspired by the belief that Judea and Samaria are integral to the Jewish destiny. Whether you view these areas as ancestral homelands or illegally occupied territories, this conversation offers a detailed, balanced approach to one of the most contentious topics in the Middle East.Click here for the sources used in this episode.Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email noam@unpacked.media.Follow @jewishunpacked on Instagram and check us out on youtube.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-------------------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsSoulful Jewish LivingStars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

Dive into the controversy of the USS Liberty incident, revealing the facts and debunking conspiracy theories. Explore how these narratives connect with historical antisemitism, especially in modern discussions. Reflect on the emotional complexities of recent Israeli-Palestinian events, emphasizing hope and pain. Discover the resilience in Jewish history through personal stories, and examine the vital role of education in combating anti-Semitism. This engaging dialogue encourages critical thinking and informed conversations.

A brief hiatus is announced, with the promise of returning in the new year. The hosts introduce a new project that combines humor and Jewish life, encouraging listener participation. There's an exciting push for expansion, aiming for a multi-platform experience that includes more content, guest appearances, and live events. The call for support highlights the community's potential influence on shaping future episodes.

Explore the evolving identity of Arab citizens in Israel, from the impact of the Six-Day War to the lessons of the Second Intifada. The podcast dives into personal narratives reflecting the aspirations for peace and belonging in a complex society. It highlights the resilience of the Arab community amid societal pressures, and the significance of language in fostering inclusivity. The discussion calls for a reevaluation of shared symbols and education to bridge divisions, underscoring hope for a more equal and united future.