Since declaring independence over six decades ago, Israel has faced constant threats to its existence. While the Palestinian conflict often dominates headlines, it’s just one of many challenges Israel endures. The nation grapples with terrorism, radical Islam, an Iranian regime seeking nuclear weapons, and internal divisions between Jewish and Arab populations, as well as secular and religious Jews. Israel also faces demographic pressures from a growing Arab population and disputes over vital water resources. This course will explore the complex issues Israel faces, from geopolitical threats to domestic struggles. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of Israel’s security concerns, its strategies for survival, and the prospects for peace, offering a comprehensive look at the nation’s ongoing challenges.

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.