Joining me on set is Dan Cenor, a former foreign policy adviser to President George W. Bush and co-author of the new book “The Genius of Israel: The Surprising Resilience of a Divided Nation in a Turbulent World.” Dan, it’s a pleasure to have you with us.
Congratulations on the book. I’m sure you never anticipated the events of October 7th when you wrote it. The book explores the incredible history and optimism of the Jewish people and their country.
I recently visited Israel with my family in June and you can feel the resilient and happy culture there. However, the recent events have caused significant damage to this.
Many Israelis are experiencing personal and collective trauma. Despite this, Israel is paradoxically coming together. It’s important to note that Israel is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world.
Despite violence, danger, and political polarization, the people remain upbeat. One of the reasons for this is the strong sense of belonging that every Israeli feels.
National service plays a significant role in this, as it not only provides essential life skills and leadership qualities but also fosters a deep connection to the state. Additionally, the camaraderie among Israelis from diverse backgrounds further strengthens this sense of belonging. Furthermore, ritual and tradition also play a part in fostering a shared experience and sense of purpose. However, it is important to acknowledge the security concerns facing Israel, especially in light of the statements made by the leadership in Iran.
The recent events on October 7th have made it clear that Israel cannot take its security for granted. It is crucial for the Biden Administration to remain steadfast and strong in supporting Israel’s security interests. The book “The Genius of Israel” by Dan Cenor provides a deeper understanding of the Middle East dynamics and is a recommended read for those who want to comprehend the current situation in Israel.
Thank you, Dan, for joining us, and we hope to have you back soon to discuss more on this topic..
