Unpacking Israeli History

• Special Crossover: The Star of David (Jewish History Nerds)

  This week, Unpacking Israeli History is sharing an episode from another great podcast produced by Unpacked: Jewish History Nerds. We hope you'll listen to the premier of season 4: The Star of David-A Symbol That Means Everything—and Nothing. Hosts Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab explore the history of the Star of David, also known as the Magen David or hexagram. What does the Star of David really mean—and how did it become the symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity? From decorative motif to mystical symbol, from Jewish pride to Nazi persecution, this iconic six-pointed star carries a complex, and at times contradictory, legacy and story. If you like Unpacking Israeli History, then please give Jewish History Nerds a listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you'll never miss an episode. Click here to subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Click here to subscribe on Spotify. Click here for a recap of the information discussed in the episode. Click here to watch Unpacked's YouTube video "The Surprising History of the Star of David." Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email [email protected]. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

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• Meir Kahane: Jewish Defender or Jewish Supremacist?

  Host Noam Weissman explores the controversial ideas, and long-lasting influence of Meir Kahane—American-born rabbi, founder of the Jewish Defense League, and pioneer of the far-right ideology known as Kahanism. Once dismissed as a fringe figure, Kahane's ideas are making a troubling comeback, echoed in memes, political platforms, and even Israeli policy debates. Noam goes beyond the headlines to ask: Who was Meir Kahane--really? What did he believe? Why do some Jews say he was “right”—while others see him as a terrorist and racist? Featuring insights from historian Gil Troy, Orthodox thinkers, and voices across the political spectrum, this episode examines Kahane’s life, legacy, and the resurgence of Jewish extremism in the wake of October 7. Click here for the sources used in this episode. Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email [email protected]. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

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• Hamas, Israel, and the Future of Gaza: A Conversation with Ahmed Fouad Alkatib (Part 2)

  Host Noam Weissman continues a powerful conversation with Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian voice offering deep, honest insights into Gaza’s past, present, and future. In part 2, Ahmed shares personal stories, critiques both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, and offers a compelling vision for a post-Hamas Gaza. From the rise of Hamas, the failure of Palestinian governance, and the missed opportunity to build a thriving Palestinian state, to the devastating impact of October 7th, this episode explores the complexities behind one of the world’s most misunderstood regions. Ahmed Fouad Alkatib is the director of Realign for Palestine. Ahmed is also on Instagram and X. Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email [email protected]. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

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• A Palestinian Voice: Gaza, History, and Hope - A Conversation with Ahmed Fouad Alkatib (Part 1)

  What happens when a proud American, native Gazan, and pro-peace advocate joins Unpacking Israeli History? In this groundbreaking episode, Noam Weissman sits down with Ahmed Fouad Alkatib for a deeply honest and nuanced conversation about Palestinian history, identity, and lived experience. From Gaza in the 1990s to the legacy of Hajj Amin al-Husseini, Sykes-Picot, and the Nakba, Ahmed offers a powerful, personal perspective. In part 1 of a two part series, Ahmed and Noam discuss everything from the failures of pan-Arabism and missed opportunities for peace, to the challenges of anti-normalization, Zionism, and the road ahead. Ahmed Fouad Alkatib is the director of Realign for Palestine. Ahmed is also on Instagram and X. Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email [email protected]. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

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• More Than a Game: Maccabi Tel Aviv, Zionism, and Israeli Identity

  Host and avid basketball fan, Noam Weissman takes us courtside to one of the most iconic moments in Israeli sports history — Maccabi Tel Aviv’s historic 2004 Euroleague championship win. This isn’t just a story about basketball. It’s a deep dive into how a game became a symbol of Zionism, Israeli resilience, national pride, and cultural identity during one of the country’s darkest chapters — the Second Intifada. From Tal Brody’s legendary "We’re on the map!" speech to Anthony Parker’s dominance on the court, this episode unpacks sports, politics, and identity in Tel Aviv and beyond. Click here for the sources used in this episode. Follow Unpacking Israeli History on Instagram and check us out on youtube. Please note that our email address has changed. You can now email [email protected]. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews

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