Unpacking Israeli History

Haviv Rettig Gur, a journalist and expert on Jewish history, joins Noam Weissman to explore the origins and concepts of Zionism. They dissect the movement's historical significance and its pivotal role in the Jewish narrative. Uncovering common myths surrounding Zionism, they delve into its diverse expressions, including territorialism alternatives like Birobidjan. The discussion also highlights the complexities of Jewish identity, the socio-political landscape of the time, and the nuanced debate on whether Zionism is a form of rescue or colonialism.

In this re-release, we delve into the Oslo Accords, a pivotal moment in Israeli-Palestinian history that promised peace but now feels more elusive than ever. Amidst the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional instability, we explore the complexities, missed opportunities, and enduring challenges that continue to shape the quest for peace in the Middle East. Can we still dare to hope for a resolution?-------------Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R1WuODAcUUbYGMBnTfD2Yj4N_VRBZZVSLG4nTOdISiM/edit?usp=sharing-------------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsStars of David with Elon GoldSoulful Jewish LivingWondering Jews

In the immediate aftermath of October 7, 2023, Israel grappled with overwhelming loss and destruction. As Hamas terrorists ravaged border communities, Israel counted its dead, sought its hostages, and began its retaliation. One year later, Israelis are divided on how to confront Hamas while grappling with their internal fractures. From the initial surge of unity bound by grief, a nation now faces both external and internal threats, with Israeli society at a crossroads. As emotions run high, one must ask: How can Israelis rebuild their shattered society while grappling with the weight of their own collective trauma?Click here for the sources we used in this episode.-------------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsStars of David with Elon GoldSoulful Jewish LivingWondering Jews

The podcast delves into the harrowing events of October 7, 2023, detailing the brutal attack by Hamas on Israeli communities. Personal stories of resilience emerge as families share their tragedies and the psychological toll of the violence. The narrative highlights the courageous actions of Yuval Salomon who defended his home amidst chaos. Listeners are invited to join in prayer and reflection, bridging hope and remembrance in challenging times. It also fosters education with resources aimed at teaching children about Israeli history and culture.

In this special episode of Unpacking Israeli History, we break down the unprecedented Operation New Order (Mivtza Seder Hadash), a decisive moment that may reshape the Middle East. As Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, is eliminated in an Israeli airstrike, we explore the impact of this historic assassination and its broader implications for Israel, the region, and the world. With insights from Israeli voices and reflections on the moral questions behind targeted killings, this episode dives deep into the tension between deterrence and legitimacy. Join us as we unpack the complexities of power, security, and justice.Click here for the sources used in this episode.This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.-----------For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsStars of David with Elon GoldSoulful Jewish LivingWondering Jews

Delve into Gaza's tumultuous journey from the 1967 Six-Day War through its ongoing struggles. Personal lives intertwine with global events, revealing how joy can swiftly turn to tragedy. Hear about the rise of Hamas amid a backdrop of socio-economic turmoil and the complex identity struggles. Uncover the alarming oversight of critical warnings by military personnel, and reflect on the poignant celebrations just before chaos erupted, showcasing the delicate balance of hope and despair.

To appreciate the current Israeli and Palestinian psyches, it’s vital to understand the first five years of the 21st century — the period of the Second Intifada. Noam Weissman gets to the heart of the issue and asks why this serious attempt at peace between Israel and the Palestinians ended in one of the bloodiest periods in the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and how the effects of those defining years are still felt to this day.We’re re-releasing this episode due to its continued relevance. Whether you’re revisiting or listening for the first time, this episode offers important insights into the conflict’s ongoing impact.-------------------The Unpacking Israeli History Podcast series is sponsored by Andrea and Larry Gill. This episode is sponsored by Dr. Neil and Pam Weissman.-------------------Sources Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GrFFYEgduJUjpFrK7xN8lXV4_3t6kzzdtLjZlTc-HDw/edit?usp=sharing -------------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsWondering JewsSoulful Jewish Living

In this re-released episode, we examine the 1982 Sabra and Shatila massacre, a tragic and controversial event that continues to shape perceptions of Israeli history and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We explore Israel's complex involvement, the role of the Lebanese paramilitary, and the lasting implications of this event. By re-examining these historical facts with empathy and nuance, we aim to promote deeper, more informed conversations about this and other difficult moments in Israeli history.The story of Sabra and Shatila is a horrifying one. A paramilitary Lebanese group massacres between 800 and 2,000 refugees, many in horrifying ways. And oddly...Israel is blamed for this awful, awful crime? This week, Noam will break down the confusing and upsetting story of Sabra and Shatila, and in doing so, will ask, how does a nation deal with power and responsibility? ~~~~ Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Alan Fisher and Barbara Sommer, and Jon and Rachie Teller, and this episode is generously sponsored by Yoni & Lisa Wintner.~~~~Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked Unpacking Israeli History about the Munich Olympics: https://jewishunpacked.com/munich-olympics-when-terrorism-won/Unpacking Israeli History about the disengagement from Gaza: https://jewishunpacked.com/gush-katif-when-jews-expelled-jews/~~~~Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ySAfsPqfQXy0ZSZa65BGjg0DqggACzw0ut7ukMYIMAA/edit?usp=sharing~~~~Unpacked is a division of OpenDor Media

Eleven months after Oct.7, Israel and the Jewish people are still grieving. Last week we received the terrible news that six hostages were murdered, after surviving for nearly a year. Navigating grief and hope during ongoing heartache and war is extremely complicated to navigate, especially in the wake of such tragic news. In this episode of Unpacking Israeli History, Noam pays tribute to the six beautiful lives taken too soon: Carmel, Almog, Eden, Alexander, Ori, and Hersh. He then shares an interview with Kibbutz Beeri resident Yarden Tzemach about his family’s experience on Oct.7 and its aftermath. Yarden and Noam discuss Kibbutz Beeri’s history and future while reflecting on what it means to rebuild.

The 1972 Munich Olympics massacre was a tragic event that deeply impacted Israeli history and global perceptions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As we draw parallels to recent events in a new introduction, we explore the enduring struggle for Israel's security and the haunting resonance of this history in today's volatile Middle East. This episode sheds light on the complexities of the Israeli experience, past and present.The 1972 Munich Olympics was supposed to showcase the face of the new Germany. Instead, the horrific death of 11 Israeli athletes — slaughtered as the world watched — marked a watershed moment in the Palestinian struggle and raises important questions about the power and effectiveness of terrorism. Join Noam Weissman in this re-release as he explains the details of that day and what followed, and why the massacre at Munich was not just another 1970’s terrorist attack. ~~~~ The Unpacking Israeli History Podcast series is sponsored by Andrea and Larry GillThis episode is sponsored by Jack and Ellen Kahan Zager in honor of Ala and Yoske (z”l) Brosh~~~~Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked Teaching about this topic? Check out our relevant educator resources here: https://unpacked.education/video/1972-olympics-the-munich-massacre-does-terrorism-work/