This lecture will trace the history of Gaza, from its mention in Genesis as part of Canaan to the present day. We will discuss its significance to both Jews and Muslims, the Egyptian occupation, Israel’s conquest in 1967, and the treatment of Palestinian refugees. The emergence of Hamas and Palestine Islamic Jihad as terrorist organizations, Israel's operations to protect its citizens, and the Hamas invasion on October 7, 2023, which led to the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and 251 hostages, will also be covered. The lecture will explore the postwar plans for Gaza, including questions about its future as envisioned by President Trump and the role of Arab states. What lies ahead for Gaza, its people, and its governance? Join us to find out.
Dr. Mitchell Bard is the executive director of the American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise and director of the Jewish Virtual Library, the leading online resource on Jewish history. A widely published expert on U.S.–Middle East policy with degrees from UCLA, Berkeley, and UCSB, he has authored 22 books and was named one of the “top 100 people positively influencing Jewish life” by the Algemeiner Journal.
"Very knowledgeable of the subject, unbiased presentation. Great speaker!" OLLI Patron
Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.
