Podcast Summary: In These Times with Rabbi Ami Hirsch Featuring Chaviv Rettig Gur

Podcast Information:

• Title: In These Times with Rabbi Ami Hirsch
• Host: Rabbi Ami Hirsch, Stephen Wise Free Synagogue
• Guest: Chaviv Rettig Gur, Senior Analyst and Writer for The Times of Israel
• Episode: Featuring Chaviv Rettig Gur
• Release Date: September 26, 2024

1. Introduction and Context

In this episode of In These Times, Rabbi Ami Hirsch engages in a profound discussion with Chaviv Rettig Gur, a distinguished senior analyst and writer for The Times of Israel. Chaviv, a veteran journalist since 2005, has extensive experience covering Israeli politics, foreign policy, and the U.S.-Israel relationship from over 20 countries. Their conversation delves deep into the current tumultuous events in Israel, particularly following the October 7th attacks.

2. Emotional and Social State in Israel Post-October 7th

Chaviv Rettig Gur begins by addressing the collective trauma experienced by Israelis in the aftermath of the October 7th attacks. He reflects on the initial shock and vulnerability felt by the Israeli populace and the subsequent unifying response against Hamas.

"One of the most thoughtful thinkers in the Jewish world today is Chaviv Rettig Gur."
(00:10)

Chaviv emphasizes the resilience of Israeli society, noting that despite the ongoing fears and the destruction wrought by Hamas, life continues with a semblance of normalcy, especially within families striving to shield their children from the horrors of war.

"We are the strongest Jews who ever lived... life soldiers on."
(00:40)

3. Trust in the Israeli Government and Political Division

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the declining trust in the Israeli government amidst the crisis. Chaviv critiques the internal political strife and the leadership's inability to maintain unity during critical times.

"Our political leadership as totally checked out... they've not stopped campaigning for one minute in these 11 months."
(07:23)

He draws parallels to historical instances where internal divisions led to the downfall of Jewish kingdoms, suggesting that the current political discord could undermine Israel's war efforts and societal morale.

4. Hostage Negotiations and Public Protests

Chaviv delves into the contentious issue of hostage negotiations, highlighting the public's distrust in the government's strategies. He distinguishes his stance by expressing unwavering support for Prime Minister Netanyahu's approach, while simultaneously critiquing the government's sociopathic political maneuvering.

"I accept Netanyahu's argument, and I add to it another layer... because I don't trust Netanyahu to hold off that pressure."
(11:18)

Chaviv discusses the tension between military imperatives and diplomatic pressures, asserting that the government's inability to resist external influences has jeopardized the safety of hostages and the overall war effort.

5. Palestinian Civilians and Support for Hamas

Addressing the complex feelings towards Palestinian civilians, Chaviv acknowledges their suffering while condemning Hamas's strategic use of civilian casualties to further its destructive agenda.

"I think that the security establishment believes... we have to avoid civilian deaths, because the civilians are even just tactically, never mind morally."
(22:11)

He emphasizes that a significant portion of Palestinian society supports Hamas due to the organization's compelling narrative of dignity and redemption, which undermines efforts for peace and cohabitation.

"Hamas tells Palestinians a beautiful story of dignity, of redemption... The destruction of Israel will cost."
(22:43)

6. Conflict in the North and Hezbollah

The discussion shifts to the escalating tensions in northern Israel, particularly concerning Hezbollah. Chaviv warns of the potential for a more extensive and devastating conflict, comparing it to past prolonged wars like Vietnam and Afghanistan.

"We face enemies for whom the mass destruction of their entire polity is not deterrent."
(32:11)

He advocates for a more aggressive stance against Hezbollah and Iran, stressing the necessity of demonstrating Israel's military prowess to deter further aggression.

7. International Coalitions and Western Support

Chaviv evaluates the effectiveness and reliability of Western coalitions, particularly the U.S. and UK, in supporting Israel's security needs. He criticizes inconsistent policies and the lack of unified support, which he believes undermines Israel's strategic position in the Middle East.

"There is an anti-Iran coalition. It is powerful, it is real... if American policy is overtaken by..."
(38:54)

Chaviv underscores the critical role of American leadership in maintaining and strengthening these alliances, which are pivotal in countering Iranian expansionism and stabilizing the region.

8. American Jewish Community and the Need for Jewish Education

A poignant segment of the podcast addresses the challenges faced by the American Jewish community, particularly the alarming disconnect between American Jews and their historical and cultural heritage. Chaviv laments the rise of anti-Zionism on American campuses and the lack of comprehensive Jewish education among young Jews.

"American Jews don't know their story... 'Zionism is colonialism.'"
(46:24)

He recounts personal anecdotes of engaging with young Jews who struggle to articulate the foundational reasons for Zionism, emphasizing the urgent need for educational initiatives to preserve Jewish identity and resilience.

"American Jews need to know our story... we need to reclaim it. That is the way."
(51:38)

Chaviv calls for a revival of Jewish education and community engagement to empower the younger generation against rising antisemitism and to strengthen their connection to Jewish history and values.

9. Conclusion and Future Outlook

In closing, Chaviv expresses unwavering confidence in the strength and resilience of the Jewish people. He advocates for continued unity, robust defense strategies, and a reinvigorated commitment to Jewish education and community building.

"We are strong and we still act and think as though we are weak... we're the strongest Jews who ever lived."
(57:31)

Rabbi Ami Hirsch echoes these sentiments, reinforcing the message of perseverance and the critical importance of collective effort in overcoming current challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience Amid Trauma: Israeli society demonstrates remarkable strength and unity in the face of ongoing threats and internal divisions.

• Government Trust Crisis: Political infighting and lack of cohesive leadership are undermining public trust and the effectiveness of war efforts.

• Hostage Negotiations: The government's handling of hostage situations is a focal point of public distrust, exacerbating societal tensions.

• Palestinian Support for Hamas: Hamas's ideological narrative sustains its support base, presenting significant challenges to peace and security.

• Northern Front Threats: Escalating conflicts with Hezbollah highlight the potential for broader regional instability and necessitate strategic military responses.

• Western Alliances: Consistent and strong support from Western allies, particularly the U.S., is crucial for Israel's security and regional influence.

• American Jewish Identity Crisis: A significant gap in Jewish historical knowledge and rising anti-Zionism among American Jews call for urgent educational reforms and community strengthening.

Notable Quotes:

• Chaviv Rettig Gur:

  "We are the strongest Jews who ever lived... life soldiers on."
  (00:40)

  "The politics of setting one another against each other... has hampered the war effort."
  (07:25)

  "I believe that the government is absolutely correct, that Netanyahu's position is right..."
  (11:18)

  "Hamas tells Palestinians a beautiful story of dignity, of redemption..."
  (22:43)

  "American Jews need to know our story... we need to reclaim it. That is the way."
  (51:38)

• Rabbi Ami Hirsch:

  "We are strong and we still act and think as though we are weak... we're the strongest Jews who ever lived."
  (57:31)

This comprehensive discussion offers valuable insights into the current state of Israeli society, the complexities of political leadership, the enduring challenges posed by Hamas, and the critical need for a reinvigorated Jewish identity within the American Jewish community. Chaviv Rettig Gur's analysis underscores the importance of unity, informed leadership, and cultural education in navigating these turbulent times.