Unpacking Israeli History

4.8 (904)
JUDAISM
UPDATED WEEKLY

Go behind the scenes of Israeli history with self-confessed history nerd Noam Weissman. Each week, he offers a fresh perspective on some of the most controversial and interesting events in the country’s history. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about what Israel is all about -- from multiple angles and viewpoints -- this is the podcast for you.

3 DAYS AGO

Special Crossover: Navigating Israel, Identity, and Empathy—How to Talk to Kids About Israel

In this special crossover episode, Noam Weissman shares an insightful conversation from his other podcast, Wondering Jews With Mijal and Noam, co-hosted with Dr. Mijal Bitton. Together, they tackle one of the toughest questions Jewish parents face today: how to approach the complex topic of Israel and antisemitism with children. Noam and Mijal dive into the nuances of Israel education, offering reflections on how their perspectives have evolved over the past year and practical ways to discuss difficult subjects. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone deeply engaged with Jewish issues, this episode offers thoughtful guidance for fostering understanding and resilience in the next generation. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam for more thought-provoking conversations! ------------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Wondering Jews Soulful Jewish Living

40 min
NOV 11

Israel Open Mic: Anti-Zionism, Iran-Contra, and Why Empathy Matters

In this special Israel Open Mic episode of Unpacking Israeli History, host Noam Weissman is answering your questions! Noam dives into some of the most fascinating and tricky topics in Israeli history—like why some Jews are anti-Zionist, how Israel got tangled up in the Iran-Contra affair, and what the deal is with Jerusalem. He also takes on conspiracy theories, gives a shout-out to Palestinian peace advocates, and shows why empathy can go a long way in understanding tough issues. ----------------- This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Marci and Andrew Spitzer. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Wondering Jews Soulful Jewish Living

42 min
NOV 4

What is Zionism? Part 2: Challenges, Education, and What’s Next

In part two, Noam and Haviv tackle the tough questions about Zionism today. They dig into how Zionism is viewed around the world, how it’s taught, and what this means for Israelis, Palestinians, and people everywhere. Noam and Haviv consider whether Zionism has achieved its original goals and how understanding stories of the Other can help build a bridge between communities. Book recommendations: A History Of Zionism, Walter Lacquer The Zionist Ideas, Gil Troy Europe Against The Jews, Gotz Aly Israel, A History, Anita Shapira

55 min
OCT 28

What is Zionism? Part 1: Origins and Big Ideas

In part one of this two-part series, Noam Weissman and Haviv Rettig Gur dive into the origins and big ideas behind Zionism. They break down what Zionism actually means, where it came from, and why it’s been so central to the Jewish story. Along the way, Noam and Haviv explore common myths, misunderstandings, and the early hopes of Zionist thinkers.

52 min
OCT 21

Oslo: The Peace that Wasn't [Rerelease]

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

46 min
OCT 14

Part 3: The Aftermath of October 7

Part 3 of 3: The aftermath 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?

1h 1m
OCT 7

Part 2: The Nightmare of October 7, 2023

On October 7, 2023, Israel witnessed a nightmare unfold as Hamas militants stormed the southern border communities, committing acts of unimaginable brutality. In a ruthless attack, Hamas fighters from Gaza unleashed horror on innocent civilians—horrific s*xual a**ault, the slaughtering of 1,300 Israelis, and the kidnapping of over 200 hostages into Gaza. Through the voices of survivors and grieving families of those killed or abducted, this episode brings the unimaginable suffering - graphic, explicit, and deeply unsettling - into sharp, heart-wrenching focus. This episode is the second part of a three-part series that will delve into Gaza’s history, the events of October 7, and the ongoing aftermath we continue to witness today.

56 min
OCT 1 · BONUS

The End of Nasrallah

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. ~~~ For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day Wondering Jews

33 min

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Noam Weissman

Host

4.8

out of 5

904 Ratings

Exactingly well researched

Oct 30

ms. shugenuh

Accurate, meticulously researched, and illuminating! Thank you for being a clear voice for critical history.
Very Accessible History Lesson!

Oct 14

AtomicWife

I’m a proud, secular, Progressive Jew whose soul was upended by the horrific events of Oct. 7th and the global backlash on Oct. 8th. Between my strong belief in the state of Israel (not Bibi) and debating every day on social media, I was motivated to brush up on Israel’s complicated history. Noah does a great job of explaining and keeping my attention.
Excellent. Comprehensive and as balanced as anyone with strong opinions can be

Oct 7

Generic1234

I was looking for a "cliff notes" version of modern Israeli history when I started listening to this podcast one month ago. These 20-46 (they're getting longer!) pods do accomplish this but go into depth on certain aspects. Noam does an excellent job of pointing out his own biases and presents alternate views as well as supplying references for more in depth reading. While I'm certain he and I disagree about some political issues, he does remind me of why Israel is vital and makes me proud of my heritage, which is becoming increasingly difficult in these unsettling (but not unprecedented) times. I highly recommend these pods as a starting point for the journey.
Outstanding pod

Oct 1

Ld1210

Highly recommend this pod to anyone with intellectual curiosity about Israel and a love of history. I find myself sharing many episodes with others.

Go behind the scenes of Israeli history with self-confessed history nerd Noam Weissman. Each week, he offers a fresh perspective on some of the most controversial and interesting events in the country’s history. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about what Israel is all about -- from multiple angles and viewpoints -- this is the podcast for you.