Unpacking Israeli History

Got questions about the current situation in Israel/Palestine? Almost all the answers lie in the Great Arab Revolt of 1936. How is that possible, when the modern state of Israel wasn’t even established until 1948?!This three-part series explores the roots of a seemingly intractable conflict, highlighting unknown figures and outlining what might have been.~~~~  Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PaLZ4afLCh_f6NOFzbZz8izhX1j6FZREiJUS2uLtejw/edit~~~~ This mini series of Unpacking Israeli History is dedicated in memory of Armand Lindenbaum, the grandson of Rav Amiel, by his wife, Jean, and children, Felice, Amiel, and Ariel Lindenbaum-Sebag.

Welcome to the second part of our two-parter about the four seemingly-impossible obstacles that confounded Israeli and Palestinian leaders alike.Why have Israelis and Palestinians never made peace? Despite multiple peace accords, the two peoples are still at war. In this two part episode, we’ll explore the four major obstacles preventing peace: Jerusalem, borders, security, and the refugees. You’ve heard about the “right of return”? East and West Jerusalem? Security fences/walls? Then this episode is for you.~~~~  Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z68Z6bbhV6lRkLYtRqRRn4bDQ2kByJcW4AtDpdy9pH0/edit?usp=sharing~~~~ This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Barbara & Rick Silverman, The Marcus Family Foundation, and Michael Staenberg.

Why have Israelis and Palestinians never made peace? Despite multiple peace accords, the two peoples are still at war. In this two part episode, we’ll explore the four major obstacles preventing peace: Jerusalem, borders, security, and the refugees. You’ve heard about the “right of return”? East and West Jerusalem? Security fences/walls? Then this episode is for you.~~~~  Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z68Z6bbhV6lRkLYtRqRRn4bDQ2kByJcW4AtDpdy9pH0/edit?usp=sharing~~~~ This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Barbara & Rick Silverman, The Marcus Family Foundation, and Michael Staenberg.

They serve in the army. They fly the Israeli flag. They call themselves proud Israelis. So why did a 2018 Israeli law leave the Druze community feeling abandoned? In this episode, we unpack the complex story of the Israeli Druze: their history, their identity, their “blood covenant” with the Jewish state—and the moment that made them question it all. As tensions rise in Syria and the Golan Heights, their story matters more than ever. ~~~~   Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h-BJIIJXiWHalkCO0f1YRs15P1upVNr1plM-r0H04PA/edit ~~~~   To make a donation to Maor please visit: https://www.charidy.com/Maorla

The podcast explores the history and conflicts surrounding Hezbollah, the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini in Iran, and the evolution of Hezbollah into a formidable organization with anti-Israel sentiments. It delves into the ethical dilemma faced by mountaineers on Mount Everest and navigates through the moral complexities in times of crisis.

We're back for season 6! Get ready to join Noam for a deep dive into Israeli history, shedding light on the events of today. Have thoughts, questions, or stories to share? Drop us a line at noam@jewishunpacked.com. Your email might even become part of the conversation on the show.So, what are you waiting for? Yalla, let's do this.

When we first released an episode on captured soldiers, back in August 2023, we had no idea that we were mere months away from the worst hostage crisis Israel had ever experienced. On October 7, 2023, Hamas murdered 1,200 people – mostly civilians – and dragged another 240 to Gaza, plunging Israel into a nightmare. Hamas did not discriminate. They took babies as young as 9 months, elderly people well into their 80s, and everyone in between.Some of those 240 hostages have been rescued or released. Some were murdered in captivity. Three were killed mistakenly by “friendly fire.” But as of December 2023, 129 remain in Gaza, their fates and welfare unknown. And the questions we raised back in August remain more relevant than ever. ~~~~  Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tO4xtCQdNDbcO3THe1elsiNrvREOuG6FjD3gcq5hDnA/edit?usp=sharing

Reflections on refugee experiences and resilience in Israel, encounters with bored teenagers in Jerusalem and criticism of conspiracy theories, Arab and Jewish Israelis coming together in solidarity, emotional impact of tragic history and determination for a better future, importance of leaning on each other for support.

The podcast delves into the construction of narratives surrounding the Israel-Hamas war, exploring Zionism, colonialism, apartheid, and the right of return. It also reflects on the missions of Yoo and Hamas, discusses political Zionism and the significance of the UN partition vote, and explores the emotional journey and stages of grief in the war. The chapter concludes with a reflection on unity, resilience, and hope for acceptance and peace.

A deep dive into the surprising history, ideology, and legacy of Hamas, Israel's next door neighbor. The podcast explores the brutal tactics used by Hamas, the motivations behind attacks in Israel, and the complexity and contradictions of the group. It also discusses the rise of Hamas, their use of anti-Semitism, and the importance of understanding and education for peace.