New Books in Middle Eastern Studies Violent Majorities 2.1: Peter Beinart on Long-Distance Israeli Ethnonationalism (LA, AS)
Feb 6, 2025
In this discussion, Peter Beinart, Editor at Jewish Currents and Professor at CUNY, dives into his timely book, "Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning." He challenges Zionist narratives and explores the moral responsibilities of Jewish identity amidst the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Beinart reflects on his family's experiences with apartheid in South Africa, connects the struggles of Gaza to broader global issues, and emphasizes the importance of solidarity and inclusivity within the Jewish community, particularly for younger voices.
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Exclusion of Anti-Zionist Jews
- Claiming Zionism is inherent to Judaism excludes anti-Zionist Jews.
- This creates a crisis, especially among younger American Jews, where such exclusion impacts community vibrancy.
Building Alternative Institutions
- Beinart advises building alternative Jewish institutions that embrace solidarity with Palestinians.
- This provides spaces for those alienated by mainstream Jewish organizations.
Ethno-Nationalist Alliances
- Netanyahu prioritizes alliances with ethno-nationalists who support Israel over opposing anti-Semitism.
- This has global consequences, as Israel becomes a model for ethno-nationalist states.
