The Big Picture: How Israel Won the West dives deep into the complex history of Israel’s relationship with the Western world. It explores the evolution of the Jewish people from ancient times to modern-day Israel, shedding light on the changing perceptions and treatment of Jews over the centuries. From being targeted as “Christ killers” to being integrated into the white Western world, Jews have undergone a remarkable transformation in their societal standing.
The film exposes the strategic alliance between Zionism and Western ideology, positioning Israel as a bastion of Western civilization in contrast to the East, particularly Arab and Muslim populations. This alignment has led to the marginalization of Arab Jews and the consolidation of power among European Ashkenazi Jews, who have become key supporters of right-wing governments and nationalist movements.
At the core of Israel’s expansionist agenda is the belief, articulated by Ze’ev Jabotinsky, that force is necessary to secure Zionist goals and suppress Palestinian resistance. This settler-colonial mentality has sustained Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and fueled a cycle of violence against the Palestinian people.
Central to Israel’s dominance in the region is its “special relationship” with the United States, built on shared geopolitical interests and a narrative that positions Jews as part of a Judeo-Christian heritage distinct from Arabs. This narrative has justified Israel’s actions in the eyes of the Western world, enabling ongoing military campaigns and human rights violations against Palestinians.
The film vividly illustrates the brutal reality of Israel’s military actions, particularly its devastating war on Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of civilian deaths, including women and children. Despite international condemnation, Israel continues its operations, expanding its targets to include Lebanon in its pursuit of groups like Hezbollah. Through it all, the Western world stands by Israel, framing its actions as a defense of Western civilization against perceived threats from the “barbaric” other.
Filmmaker: Sanjiev Johal
Featuring:
Shaul Magid – visiting professor of modern Jewish studies, Harvard University’s Divinity School
David Freidenreich – professor of Jewish studies, Colby College
Omer Bartov – professor of Holocaust and genocide studies, Brown University
Raz Segal – author, Genocide in the Carpathians
Michelle Mart – associate professor, Pennsylvania State University
Arie M Dubnov – associate professor, George Washington University
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In conclusion, The Big Picture provides a thought-provoking examination of the intertwined histories of Israel and the Western world, shedding light on the complex dynamics that have shaped the region. By tracing the evolution of Jewish identity and the alliances forged between Israel and Western powers, the film highlights the deep-seated narratives and power structures that perpetuate conflict and inequality in the Middle East. Through the insights of esteemed scholars and experts, viewers are challenged to rethink prevailing notions of Western civilization and consider the moral implications of supporting Israel’s actions in the region. By offering a critical lens on these issues, The Big Picture prompts a deeper understanding of the complexities at play and calls for a more nuanced approach to addressing the ongoing challenges in the Middle East.
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