Gidon Ariel and Jeff Hutcheon - November 7, 2023

Gidon and Hutch discuss the current situation in Israel, focusing on the recent terrorist attacks, communication with residents of Bani Naim, security measures, geographical and political situation, demographic situation, security situation in the West Bank, intercommunity relations, complexities of using Arab labor, potential political changes, Israeli businessmen and the Palestinian Authority, political landscape in the United States, and increasing anti-Semitism in their country.


Israel Situation Discussed
Gidon and Hutch discussed the current situation in Israel. Gidon also shared his struggles in trying to communicate with the residents of Bani Naim, as he has been unsuccessful in finding someone who could provide insight into the situation. Despite the tension, Gidon assured Hutch that things were quiet in his part of Israel.

Community Security and Fundraising Efforts
Gidon discussed the security measures and fundraising efforts in his community. He mentioned the need to improve their Civil Guard, the single road that acts as the only exit, and the launch of a fundraising campaign to build an escape route. Gidon also highlighted the need for more security cameras, bulletproof security vehicles, and emergency generators due to frequent power outages. Furthermore, he shared that they plan to raise funds for an additional ambulance. Gidon and Hutch discussed these matters, with Hutch acknowledging that such security measures are not a concern in his location south of Denver, Colorado.

Israel’s Geopolitical Situation
Hutch and Gidon discussed the geographical and political situation in Israel. Gidon clarified the location and distribution of these territories, using a map to show how they are situated in Israel, emphasizing the proximity of areas that are considered “terrorist entities.” Gidon also pointed out that these areas exist only in the West Bank.

Demographics and Anti-Zionism in Israel and the West Bank
Gidon and Hutch discussed the demographic situation in Israel and the West Bank. Gidon stated that around 18% of Israel’s citizens are Muslim, a higher percentage than in America. He also highlighted the complexity of the term “anti-Zionist,” which often implies a desire to erase Israel as a Jewish state. Hutch clarified that the one-state solution advocated by some anti-Zionists would ultimately mean a country without Jews. Gidon also provided statistics on the population in the West Bank, noting a significant Palestinian majority.

West Bank Security and Communities Map Discussion
Gidon and Hutch discuss a map of the West Bank, focusing on areas with varying levels of security control and civilian control. Gidon explains that areas A, B, and C are for Arabs, Arabs, and Palestinians, while areas D and E are for Israelis and Israelis, respectively. They also talk about the importance of understanding the boundaries between communities and communities with roads between them.

Security Risks in Gidon’s Community
Gidon and Hutch discussed the security situation in the region where Gidon’s community is located. Gidon pointed out a large red sign that forbids Israeli citizens from entering an area under the Palestinian Authority, highlighting the risks of potential violence. Hutch emphasized the gravity of the situation, comparing it to a neighboring subdivision with a high crime rate. Gidon expressed his desire to establish communication with the people in the forbidden area and shared his unsuccessful attempts to do so.

Discussing Israel’s Palestinian Relations
Hutch and Gidon discussed Gidon’s move from the States to Israel, and his experiences living there. Gidon, who is Jewish, emphasized that he moved back to his indigenous homeland after spending time in the United States. Hutch asked about the presence of Palestinian-controlled territories and if there had been any positive relationships or peace between the two communities. Gidon mentioned that there are many Palestinians with work permits in Israel and Judah and Samaria, but the situation has been volatile. He also referred to the time before the Oslo Peace Accords when the area was more peaceful. However, he expressed disbelief at the violent actions and defenses of those actions by some individuals. Finally, Hutch asked if there were examples of Palestinian territories issuing work visas to Israelis, but Gidon did not provide a direct answer.

Intercommunity Relations in Israel
Gidon discussed the complexities of intercommunity relations in Israel, particularly in relation to the use of Arab labor, the tension between the communities, and the recent escalation of violence. He expressed concern about the potential for conflict and the need for understanding, but acknowledged the difficulties in finding solutions during times of war. Hutch asked Gidon for his perspective on the conflict, but Gidon noted the complexity of the issue and the need for a different conversation.

Ashraf’s Potential Leadership Role
Gidon discussed his friend, Ashraf Jobri, a tribe leader in Hebron with a significant family and tribe. Ashraf is pro-Israel and anti-Palestinian authorities, and Gidon suggested the possibility of him becoming a leader of the Palestinians. However, Gidon mentioned that Ashraf is not well-received in his community and plans to introduce him soon. The conversation also hinted at potential political changes in the region, but no specific decisions or next steps were outlined.

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Gidon’s Perspective
Gidon expresses his concerns about the complex relationship between Israeli businessmen and the Palestinian Authority, as well as the ongoing conflict. In the discussion, Gidon shares his views on the different perspectives within his community, from those advocating for retaliation against Hamas terrorists to those suggesting relocation of Palestinians. He strongly condemns the acts of terrorism and highlights the severity of the situation. He also suggests reestablishing Jewish communities that were destroyed by Israel. Hutch brings up the question of how the international community would react to these strategies, and Gidon dismisses the United Nations and highlights that America, a key ally of Israel, stands alone in its support.

US Support for Israel: Political Landscape and Pressure
Gidon and Hutch discussed the political landscape in the United States regarding support for Israel. Gidon noted a shift in Congress, with a growing minority of left-wing politicians expressing criticism of Israel. Hutch argued that this minority was more vocal than representative of the majority of Americans, who still support Israel. However, he expressed concern that political pressure from these groups, as well as international countries, could potentially cause the US to reconsider its support for Israel. Gidon was more skeptical, believing that anti-Semitism was increasing and that the situation was more serious than political pressure.

Anti-Semitism Discussed: Education & Ties With Israel
Gidon and Hutch talked about the increasing anti-semitism in their country. Hutch attributed the problem to a demonic spirit and emphasized the significance of education to combat it, particularly within the Christian community. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with Israel. Gidon agreed and expressed his hope for building relationships and creating a better world. Furthermore, Gidon and Hutch discussed their future meetings, considering adjusting the meeting time due to Gidon’s afternoon and evening prayers and the setting sun. They decided to communicate via email or other means to find the best meeting time.

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