Israel, Palestine, and Christian Zionism

Summary

In this episode, Matt and Susie unpack the complex interplay between US and Israeli politics, centered around two controversial projects: Project 2025 and Project Esther. The hosts discuss the origins and implications of these projects, which aim to reshape US governance and address antisemitism through controversial means. The conversation covers the deep-seated connections between Jewish and Christian nationalism, the role of Christian Zionism, and the impact of these ideologies on Israel-Palestine relations. The episode also explores the ongoing resistance movements in both regions, particularly highlighting the importance of intersectional and transnational solidarity.

Key Questions:

• What led to the rise of Netanyahu? 
• What are the religious dynamics within Israel (ultra-orthodox and the military, rising far-right parties and leaders)
• How does this relate to October 7th, and the genocide taking place in Gaza?  
• An often underestimated dimension is the role of Christian Zionism in driving violence, especially toward Palestinians. And most of that influence is coming from the United States. What is Christian Zionism? Who are the players? What are the theologies that undergird this? How do their interests align with those in Israel?
• How does Christian Zionist lobbying and advocacy work both in the US and in Israel? How does it impact Israeli politics and the situation in Gaza and the West Bank? Would US politics toward Israel be different if there wasn’t this Christian Zionist element? 
• How have Jewish nationalist actors in Israel shaped and leveraged Christian Zionist power and its agenda?