Unpacking the Nakba: Ariel Feldman Explores Zionism’s Role in Israel’s Genocide

In a world where ethical responsibility is paramount, Ariel Feldman, an audiovisual filmmaker and lecturer, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His insights, drawn from a complex Jewish identity and personal experiences in Israel, highlight the urgent need for action against what he describes as the colonial and genocidal policies of Israel. In an interview conducted by Argentine journalist Silvina Pachelo for the Tehran Times, Feldman elaborates on his journey from childhood in Israel to becoming a vocal critic of Zionism, urging others to join the fight for justice in Palestine.

Feldman’s narrative begins with his upbringing in Israel and the profound contradictions he encountered as he grappled with his Jewish identity. He states, “I’ve always been connected to Israeli life: I was born in Israel to Argentine parents, and we returned to Argentina when I was seven.” This duality of identity shaped his early perceptions, especially as he grew up in a household actively engaged in leftist Zionist movements. However, as he matured, he began to question the prevailing narratives surrounding colonial violence and the role of the Israeli army.

Feldman reflects on his childhood in a kibbutz, describing it as a nurturing environment that later became a site of tension as he began to question the political realities of Israel. He explains, “My childhood experience was wonderful… but over time, during my returns, I began asking historical and political questions.” This transition marked the beginning of his political awakening, which culminated during Operation “Cast Lead” in 2009, a pivotal moment that reshaped his understanding of Zionism as an ideology rooted in exclusivity and supremacy.

In discussing his activism, Feldman reveals his involvement in founding a group called NOT IN OUR NAME, which emerged during Operation “Cast Lead.” He notes, “In April 2009, in Buenos Aires, this small group became the first significant collective of militant anti-Zionist Jews in Argentina.” This organization aimed to challenge the dominant narratives within the Jewish community and advocate for Palestinian rights, drawing on a rich tradition of non-Zionist Jewish thought.

Feldman emphasizes the necessity of raising one’s voice against the ongoing genocide in Gaza, asserting that “a lack of commitment is not an option.” He expresses concern about the silence from segments of the Jewish community, particularly those with ties to Holocaust survivors. Echoing the sentiments of John Berger, he argues that ignorance equates to complicity, urging individuals to take a stand against oppression.

Reflecting on the current situation in Gaza, Feldman argues that Israel’s actions are a continuation of historical dispossession. He articulates, “The Israeli offensive continues the economic and social dispossession of the Palestinian population, initiated with the colonization of Palestine by the Zionist movement.” He views the Israeli government’s current strategies as an aggressive attempt to realize a greater Zionist project at the expense of Palestinian lives and rights.

Feldman critiques mainstream media for its role in legitimizing violence against Palestinians, stating, “Mainstream media play a fundamental, lamentable, and complicit role.” He argues that the interests of these media outlets often align with those of the Israeli state, perpetuating narratives that obscure the realities faced by Palestinians.

When discussing the distinction between Judaism and Zionism, Feldman clarifies, “Zionism is a recent political current… that hijacks Jewish identity to present itself as its representative.” He emphasizes the importance of reclaiming a Jewish identity rooted in resistance and solidarity with oppressed peoples, asserting that true Judaism stands in stark contrast to the nationalist ideologies propagated by Zionism.

Art, cinema, and photography also play a crucial role in raising awareness about the plight of Palestinians, according to Feldman. He explains, “Images are powerful and help shape political awareness.” He believes that visual representations of suffering can catalyze action and provoke critical discussions about ongoing injustices.

Feldman highlights the unique context of solidarity with Palestine in Argentina, where a small Palestinian community coexists with a larger Jewish population. He notes, “In Argentina, it is rare for an Argentine Jewish family not to have a relative living or who has lived in Israel.” This familial connection complicates the discourse around Palestinian rights and often results in self-censorship within media and political discussions.

In closing, Feldman urges those hesitant to speak out against the genocide to recognize their moral responsibility. He poignantly states, “Self-censorship causes anguish… We have a responsibility to ourselves and to the humanity within us.” He calls for active engagement and resistance against the injustice faced by the Palestinian people, emphasizing that now is the time to raise our voices against oppression.

As the global community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Feldman’s compelling narrative serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the ethical obligation to stand against violence and injustice.