Israelism

This 2023 documentary, co-directed by Erin Axelman and Sam Eilertsen, is about how Israel is taught within American Jewish institutions. It follows two young American Jews: one joins the Israeli military, the other defends Israel on American college campuses. Both shift position after seeing what Palestinians live through with their own eyes. The film is openly an argument and does not disguise it: its thesis is that placing Israel at the centre of American Jewish identity is an educational choice and one that should be questioned. Peter Beinart, Noura Erakat and Noam Chomsky are among those who speak. Abe Foxman, former head of the Anti-Defamation League, also gave an interview and later said he regretted taking part. The film was further debated in the United States after screenings were cancelled at some universities, and that dispute affected its circulation independently of its content. Who it's for: those who want to understand the generational argument over Israel inside the American Jewish community. Who it's not for: viewers seeking a multi-sided, balanced account of the conflict; this is an advocacy documentary and it speaks from one position.