Unpacking Israeli History

Unpacked
  • 4.8 (883)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Unpacking Israeli History

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.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    The Nightmare of October 7, 2023 (Part 2)

    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

  2. OCT 1

    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

  3. SEP 30

    Behind October 7: Gaza's History from 1967 to 10/7 (Part 1)

    Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has been at the heart of a brutal war between Israel and Hamas. But this tiny 25-mile strip's troubled history started long before the current hostilities. Since Israel's capture of Gaza in the 1967 Six-Day War, the strip has been caught in a cycle of conflict, shifting power, and shattered hopes. From occupation to Hamas’ rise to power, Gaza’s turbulent past set the stage for October 7, 2023, when the conflict reached a horrifying peak. This episode kicks off 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.

    1h 2m

  4. SEP 23

    The Second Intifada: Trauma and Tragedy [Rerelease]

    To appreciate the current Israeli and Palestinian psyches, it’s vital to understand the first five years of the 21st century — the period of the Second Intifada. Noam Weissman gets to the heart of the issue and asks why this serious attempt at peace between Israel and the Palestinians ended in one of the bloodiest periods in the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and how the effects of those defining years are still felt to this day. We’re re-releasing this episode due to its continued relevance. Whether you’re revisiting or listening for the first time, this episode offers important insights into the conflict’s ongoing impact. ~~~~ The Unpacking Israeli History Podcast series is sponsored by Andrea and Larry Gill. This episode is sponsored by Dr. Neil and Pam Weissman ~~~~ Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/ Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked Teaching about this topic? Check out our relevant educator resources here: https://unpacked.education/video/the-second-intifada/  ~~~~ Sources Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GrFFYEgduJUjpFrK7xN8lXV4_3t6kzzdtLjZlTc-HDw/edit?usp=sharing ~~~~ Unpacked is a division of OpenDor Media

    31 min

  5. SEP 16

    Sabra and Shatila: What Happened And Why It Matters [Rerelease]

    In this re-released episode, we examine the 1982 Sabra and Shatila massacre, a tragic and controversial event that continues to shape perceptions of Israeli history and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We explore Israel's complex involvement, the role of the Lebanese paramilitary, and the lasting implications of this event. By re-examining these historical facts with empathy and nuance, we aim to promote deeper, more informed conversations about this and other difficult moments in Israeli history. The story of Sabra and Shatila is a horrifying one. A paramilitary Lebanese group massacres between 800 and 2,000 refugees, many in horrifying ways. And oddly...Israel is blamed for this awful, awful crime? This week, Noam will break down the confusing and upsetting story of Sabra and Shatila, and in doing so, will ask, how does a nation deal with power and responsibility? ~~~~ Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Alan Fisher and Barbara Sommer, and Jon and Rachie Teller, and this episode is generously sponsored by Yoni & Lisa Wintner. ~~~~ Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/ Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked  Unpacking Israeli History about the Munich Olympics: https://jewishunpacked.com/munich-olympics-when-terrorism-won/ Unpacking Israeli History about the disengagement from Gaza: https://jewishunpacked.com/gush-katif-when-jews-expelled-jews/ ~~~~ Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ySAfsPqfQXy0ZSZa65BGjg0DqggACzw0ut7ukMYIMAA/edit?usp=sharing ~~~~ Unpacked is a division of OpenDor Media

    43 min

  6. SEP 9

    From Hostage Tragedy to Be'eri's Loss, Strength and a Special Conversation

    Eleven months after Oct.7, Israel and the Jewish people are still grieving. Last week we received the terrible news that six hostages were murdered, after surviving for nearly a year. Navigating grief and hope during ongoing heartache and war is extremely complicated to navigate, especially in the wake of such tragic news. In this episode of Unpacking Israeli History, Noam pays tribute to the six beautiful lives taken too soon: Carmel, Almog, Eden, Alexander, Ori, and Hersh. He then shares an interview with Kibbutz Beeri resident Yarden Tzemach about his family’s experience on Oct.7 and its aftermath. Yarden and Noam discuss Kibbutz Beeri’s history and future while reflecting on what it means to rebuild.

    1h 13m

  7. SEP 2

    Munich Olympics: When Terrorism Won (Re-release)

    The 1972 Munich Olympics massacre was a tragic event that deeply impacted Israeli history and global perceptions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As we draw parallels to recent events in a new introduction, we explore the enduring struggle for Israel's security and the haunting resonance of this history in today's volatile Middle East. This episode sheds light on the complexities of the Israeli experience, past and present. The 1972 Munich Olympics was supposed to showcase the face of the new Germany. Instead, the horrific death of 11 Israeli athletes — slaughtered as the world watched — marked a watershed moment in the Palestinian struggle and raises important questions about the power and effectiveness of terrorism. Join Noam Weissman in this re-release as he explains the details of that day and what followed, and why the massacre at Munich was not just another 1970’s terrorist attack.  ~~~~ The Unpacking Israeli History Podcast series is sponsored by Andrea and Larry Gill This episode is sponsored by Jack and Ellen Kahan Zager in honor of Ala and Yoske (z”l) Brosh ~~~~ Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/ Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked  Teaching about this topic? Check out our relevant educator resources here: https://unpacked.education/video/1972-olympics-the-munich-massacre-does-terrorism-work/

    29 min

  8. AUG 26

    New season of Unpacking Israeli History coming soon!

    Unpacking Israeli History is back this fall, and we’re bigger than ever! Dive deep into Israel’s rich and complex history with Noam as we explore the stories that shaped the nation. This season, we’re kicking off with must-listen re-releases and a timely mini-series on the events of October 7th—because understanding Israel's past means engaging with its present. But that’s not all—Unpacking Israeli History is evolving. Expect more interviews, exclusive content, and even a tour where you can engage with Noam live! Plus, we’ve got brand new swag to celebrate our growing community. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering us, this season offers more ways to connect and dive into the history that matters. Have questions or feedback? Reach out at [email protected]—we can’t wait to hear from you!

    7 min
See All (84)

Trailers

Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
883 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Channel
    Unpacked
  • Creator
    Unpacked
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media
  • Show Website
    Unpacking Israeli History

More From Unpacked

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada