The forgotten history of Arab Jews | Avi Shlaim | The Big Picture S2EP5

For thousands of years, Jewish communities lived and thrived in the Arab world, and were integral to shaping its history, culture and economy.
But when Israel was established, more than 260,000 Arab-Jews fled their homes, and their history has largely been forgotten.
So what happened in the 1950s that forced the vast majority of them to leave?
This week on The Big Picture podcast, we sit down with Israeli historian and Oxford fellow Avi Shlaim, who himself was born in Iraq and left as a child.
Professor Shlaim documented his own family’s migration from Iraq, describing a prosperous and happy society that didn’t buy into the promise of Zionism.
In fact, he says he’s uncovered proof that external forces conspired to scare Arab-Jews into leaving.
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[@SS-cs6wt]

As a Muslim, it’s hard not to get caught up in the madness and resort to generalizations. Thank God I check myself, but gentle doves like this cute grandfather are good reminders of the beautiful humanity that exists everywhere.

[@kathyjones274]

I've not listened to him before and to have this history is the key. Thank you for your comment

[@carlywright5127]

I just looked up prior to see where population Israel came from in world 1948 to 1950's. Turkey, Israel, Europe, Africa, many nations showed up.

[@dplameras]

There are many kind hearted Israelis and Jews that are uncovering the Nakba from Israeli records and more that are sympathetic to the Palestinian cause; it doesn't do the Arab/Palestinian well to attack these people (many do). Academic Ilan Pappe, historian Tamar Novick, journalists Hagar Shezaf. The truth has to get out in Israel for any real change to happen but the voices of conscience are being silenced by Zionists and attacked by extremists Arabs. As a westerner, I've done a lot of research into this since the war started; the only way liberal modern democracies change is if the mainstream media is free and willing to report the truth, both historical and current, like how the Palestinians are being oppressed in the west bank.

[@martinemjt]

every religion,culture,race,gender etc have wonderful people and this is what we must all remember. there is place for everyone on this planet.

[@anhumblemessengerofthelawo3858]

Peace to you

[@Mettadana]

I am an Iraqi on my father’s side. He has many stories of Jewish teachers and family friends without any difficulty. Thank you.

[@maryamtara2934]

My father too we live in Egypt and he has so much stories about the Egyptian jews

[@onurio316]

hey there, jewish Iraqui here from Israel, just google the Farhud (before Israel), and tell me how nice it was for jews in Iraq in general. This guy's experience might be true, but there are other points of view of the jews situation in Iraq. Sure there were good times, but when it was bad it all went to shit.

[@FreeSpeechThought]

The numbers of jooooos in these countries speak for themselves

[@BedouinTravels]

How is this man not speaking in every news channel?!! We need voices of peace, we need him!

[@vinemp]

The dear Professor is ONE of MANY who have been LOUDLY protesting nation-states through this very history for nearly two DECADES---right here on YT!

[@yayouzouma5714]

Parce que la paix n'est toujours pas une option.

[@mannetjie3704]

because those who controls mainstream news, - media, and -education don't share the same values

[@jessssss6781]

because many of the arab countries who did this supress, lie, and still have in place antisemitic laws

[@nooshns2448]

Quite simply, because they don’t allow him to. It doesn’t fit the intended narrative.

[@hindculhane470]

About time . Well done . I grew up with Jews in Iraq . We were neighbors and friends united by loving Iraqi culture and history .

[@Section1983-th2iu]

I am sorry Hind but if you claim you grew up with Jews in Iraq you either either at least 74 years old (which maybe you are but you certainly don’t look it in your picture) or you are just full of shit.

[@Mettadana]

Hi Dear get in touch. We have the same story.

[@user-gb9jt7mg8l]

Why be a Jew at all? I see no sense in it - if you worship God and God is the God of all - why separate yourself as though you have a different God. Makes no sense. God is infinite compassion, Infinite wisdom and Infinite power. How can anythign INFINITE be separated ?

[@leenieledejo6849]

​@@user-gb9jt7mg8l Firstly, Jews are an ETHNORELIGIOUS group, not just "believers in another religion". Secondly, a few hours spent studying the Qur'an and the Old Testament (Jewish Bible) will show you that "Allah" and God (who has a name: Yahweh) have NOTHING IN COMMON! They are NOT the same God!!

[@samiaalaoui4160]

Well having listened to this amazing historian who highlighted that conspiracy theories are sometimes true (Israel bombing the Iraqi Jews to scare them and not Iraqis bombing Iraqi Jews to get rid of them) then we also need to question what Labour counsellor in Rochdale said re Israel knowing what Hammas were going to do on 7/10 but letting it happen to excuse them going in to rid gaza of the Palestinians. I listened to interviews by female Israeli soldiers who reported they could see Hammas preparing to attack just before 7/10 but their superiors (Male soldiers of course) told the women to get on with their work or there would be consequences so what Hammas were about to was ignored. Perhaps that needs questioning and not silencing a labour counsellor (Azar Ali) for what they say is a conspiracy theory. Or is it. Why is it that questioning anything that Israel does is a conspiracy theory or anti semitic but if someone highlighted something a Moslem was about to do or has done then it would be taken seriously and questioned

[@mimiwinarto9164]

The British government should be held accountable for the mess they left behind.

[@vcab6875]

Brits has a gun pointed to their Head.

[@PoldarkGodzilla]

@@Spreadlovealways123bull shit, they introduced modernity, infrastructure and western medicine ! Improved peoples lives who were previously in the medieval age

[@mieaab]

The whole European communities want Jews out of Europe. Let Jews steal Arab land n butcher the Arabs. They taught European Jews by getting Hitler gained real experiences. So, Jews and Arabs fight to the end of the universe

[@jaafarjaidin752]

❤❤❤is remembering them worthy of any value to humanity n to Almighty Allah and Islam?

[@jerzywieckowski7610]

Brits should be held responsible to dump Belfour declaration in order to get Arabs support in the WWII and not allowing Jews to find refuge in Palestine. Brits knew already in 1942 that Jews were being gassed. Shame ! Europe lost so many potential Noble Prizes and exchanged 6 mlns ( most intelligent ethnic group in the world) for 30 milions Arabs... I am in Sweden now dont ask just come and visit

[@humanrights4all425]

The Iraqi Jews played a pivotal role in the Iraqi traditional music. Singers like Salima Murad Pasha and lengendary composer Saleh Ezra Ben Yaqub (known as Saleh El Kwaiti) were and still are shining icons of Iraqi music. Salima Murad refused to leave Iraq for Israel and stayed in Baghdad until she passed away in 1974. Her songs and her powerful distinct vocal were phenomenal.

[@jaeger9654]

Lucky for her not being raped and robed

[@watup3494]

Arabs not the Jew, are conqurers and such hypocrites. They care so much about few million pelastinians having their rights, they want yet another Arab country but nono for Kurds the indiginous people to have their own country. Kurds having been slaughtered by Arabs for over 100 years and its ok. The occupied Kurdish land. Baghdad was a kurdish city. Bagdad in Kurdish means land of lords. Bags were lords and my family are Bags and many Kurds! If you search in Arabic there is no meaning for Bagdad and just says online city of peace which should be مدینە السلام(madina alsalam) so why don't they say madina alsalam? Because Bag dad are both Kurdish words again! Also Kerbela the Holly city for shia muslims was a kurdish city and it means Ker+bela= donkey is probpem! You see Kurds are the indiginous people of that land and they used Donkeys to move goods around and one time donkeys got sick so they said Kerbela=donkey is problem. So the place became Kerbela and Arabs moved there from Arabia and took over and made the city Holly place for Shia muslims to come spend their money there. As a kurd I laugh everytime I hear Kerbela 😅😅😅😅😅😅 Now we Kirds don't want to take back all of our land but to keep the little left and live in peace with the rest of the people. There won't be peace as long as there is no Kurdistan! Watch war crimes of British empire against the Kurds. Watch how Turkey is bringing back the ottoman empire. NATOS BIGGEST problem right now Turkey. Turkey has been supplying with ISIS with weapons and gets them out of prisons by attacking the prisons in West Kurdistan. Kurds fought ISIS and are still to this day fighting ISIS.😢😢😢😢 I believe that if all Arab countries were ok with Kurdistan, then the Middle East would become heaven. Kurds fought ISIS for the whole world. Please let the Kurds have peace at last!😢😢

[@kathyjones274]

Thank you 😊

[@ashleyttulshanaa2854]

Jews who migrated to Arab nations were integrated into the community ,but Jews who went to Europe were slaughtered and executed in gas chambers!But instead of being grateful to Arabs,They occupied Arab lands ,,Golan Heights,Palestine etc and hate Arabs!Sad for that!

[@patrickgrove3469]

I see that some hateful replies were removed

[@vincentvega2020]

I am proud of my Iraqi Jewish brothers. It's a wonderful party when we visit each other. The genuine respect, language, beautiful food and hospitality is first class. It doesn't take much to literally descend into tears of laughter either. But unfortunately they're a dying species and the brood of vipers don't want love, peace, prosperity, happiness, freedom or truth for any human being. Regardless of religion, Jews are part our family and defended at all costs. Much love from a Muslim Lebanese ❤

[@DC-cv9ch]

Great journalists. He allowed his guest to speak without interruption.

[@esmilner3]

No. He selects what he wants to present. He does not let truth guide him. His intentional shaping of the narrative is skillful and convinces you it's clean and sincere. He's a good propagandist, which good journalists can do.

[@waitandsee9345]

​@@esmilner3bahahaha... u just can't accept the truth😂

[@mauraorourke9849]

​@@DC-cv9chmy thkughts also

[@ahmadmazaheri8642]

What a lovely man ! so honest , human and Clair sighted . Israel's leader need to hear such a personality for their sake .

[@miskakerdez3750]

Love Avi Shlaim. I first saw him interviewed in a documentary about Norman Finkelstein and thought he was wonderful. Now I am seeking him out in all interviews. He is so calm, dignified, warm and honest. I am going to buy his book Three Worlds. What an admirable and humble man.

[@mikekkk2006]

Lier, no facts, just fantasy

[@sheilaginsberg-mu3to]

Finklestein. Is mentally ill caused by parents in Holocaust. Suffers from his family histotry.

[@sheilaginsberg-mu3to]

Sick demented . Do some investigation

[@sheilaginsberg-mu3to]

He is a mental case.His entire family died in the Holocaust. Such a strange reversal of opinions is not unheard of something like what happened to captives of hostages.

[@miskakerdez3750]

@@sheilaginsberg-mu3to I think you are confused with Norman Finkelstein. Shlaim's family is from Iraq, so they did not die in the Holocaust. In any case, neither Shlaim nor Finkelstein are "mental cases." They critique Zionism from a moral perspective and have a moral compass that wants justice for all. It is a courageous stance.

[@rayohope1]

Sir , I as a Syrian Arab are so thankful for your kindness, and proud of the Arab Jews, may god bless you all ❤️

[@7135HOLLY]

They’re not Arab; they are Mizrahi Jews. They aren’t and never were Arab. The interviewer uses the word Arab in an attempt to erase Jewish history. No Jews refer to themselves as Arab. This isn’t positive or negative about Arabs but it is obvious part of the purpose of this interview is to erase Jewish history.

[@TitanMoon746]

Interesting you should say that. Arabs butchered Jews in pogroms on chalab, Syria.

[@yansideabacoa6257]

@@TitanMoon746Europeans butchered 6 million Jews, yet the West is Israel’s closest ally

[@greenleaf8226]

​@@TitanMoon746shut the f... up...trying to fuel and poke a fire with nonsense.

[@kaoutarlahfari5998]

Free palastina free Syria thieves Why u commenting stupidity All the world knows you r stealing under name of God At least don't comment and stay quiet I don't need to remind u history

[@aminereba]

What a sincere, honest and easy-to-understand explanation of the whole issue.

[@zicokanoo5383]

Yes indeed, that was going to be my comment also 💚🌍💚🇵🇸💚🕎✝️☪️💚

[@marwar819]

Agree, his explanation of the history was very informative. The whole issue? Far from it.

[@aminereba]

Agree, thank you for correcting me.@@marwar819

[@mrpipps90]

One man’s viewpoint.

[@aidanmorgan4630]

It really isn't it is one person's story. These false flag operations are only a small section of the almost one million Arab and Iranian Jews who ended up in Israel

[@sammyogla7829]

As a Jordanian I admire and love avi he’s a good true honest man. God bless him

[@razann8875]

The host is one of the top hosts in history. I have never seen such respectful host that gave so much time to the guest and listened and actually made the entirety of the interview about the guest like this guy!!!! Woooooow!! Mad Respects!!!! This should be taught!!!

[@lulusp1023]

Very true......freedom for Palestine 🇵🇸

[@jameelkhan3934]

This is the calmest and well mannered man. I could listen to him speak all day.

[@mirach274]

This interview should be shared in the UN and every peace studies program in every university. Nobody can no longer hide the past and the present of jews in Israel and in Arab countries.

[@epiphanyx3705]

It wouldn't make a difference . They enjoy their hate & fear too much.

[@a_b_c_d_e_f_g_h_i_j__]

omg, nobody is denying their existence, we are denying the existence of Israel Not the Jewish people. Have you Not just watched this video?!

[@ndbahabaha1477]

Who is denying the Jews' presence there? It is sad that after the long-hour watch of the video, one can still wrongly conclude the talk by this prof..

[@emjaydark2811]

⁠@@a_b_c_d_e_f_g_h_i_j__The events around the world right now of Jews ( not Israelis)and Jewish owned businesses ( mot Israeli) in US, Russia, Canada, UK being treated with violence has exposed the basic anti Jewish thrust behind the so called anti Israel, pro Palestinian mission. Since the holocaust antisemitic expression became unacceptable and has shielded behind a false narrative of Palestine and Palestinians, but at this time we see the dogs have been let off their chains and are howling their hatred and violence. They are a modern proof of why the Jews must have their own country in their own ancestral geography.

[@stephaniecarrow4898]

What in the original commenter's words said anything about denying anyone's existence? He or she simply notes that the facts of past and present have been hidden. They have! I'm just learning this now, and many don't know it at all.

[@SharonPoet]

Avi Shlaim has such a sweet and gentle energy that I just want to hug him and thank him for showing me that real human decency truly does still exist in humanity.

[@margarettanekeare-cowan4325]

I'm an Australia-Cook Islander. Thank you for this powerful and authentic interview. After the 7 October 2023 I was very sad and asked why? Now that I know why - I'm even more saddened, because I've attended and supported the Jewish/Zionist/Israeli activities in Sydney NSW for over the last 10 years in my capacity as President of our Community Council in NSW. Mixed thoughts came to me over the past days, one was of a historical war of retaliation on my island to justify the attacks that I was seeing by Hamas on Israel, then as the days passed I wrote: 'We Are All Sydney' - are we? WAAS was a leadership program run by the JBD in Sydney. Thank you for this interview. God bless Professor Avi. - Emma Watson - many Jews who denounce Israeli occupation and ill-treatment of the Palestinian people.

[@o.a-b7212]

My dear Margaretta, thank you for your testimony. I am a woman of Syrian descent residing in Sydney. History as we know is a very complex and subjective matter, and sadly people can be misinformed or influenced to follow causes they later come to withdraw from. In your good heart, you wanted to defend victims and peace, however you may have realized that there are victims on both sides, and that peace is not exactly being sought by the zionists, as they continue their border expansion and colonization project in Gaza. I may be of Muslim culture, but I will tell you this, there are many Jewish victims as well, such as the Arab Jews themselves who used to live among us in peace before a certain lobby of wealthy foreign diaspora Jews created this ''great return'' plan. We lived together in relative harmony for centuries. There are Jewish victims today, who suffer from this conflict and have no part in the Israeli's government's actions, and there are Jewish advocates for peace. Especially in the youth, the more liberal Israelis who believe in a peaceful two states option, for example. Terrorists groups are instrumental in the ''no peace'' narrative remaining possible, often their own governments impeach people to live in peace when it disservices their interests. I will also go as far as saying as that those global elite politician lobbyists who brandish anti-semitism as a human shield are often so far removed from citizen life that it is hard to believe their own stories of familial hardships during the Holocaust. I am more so inclined to believe nowadays that it is regular Jewish people who suffered from it, much like an Arab Jew or an Israeli-born youth who did not chose where they were born, do, when they suffer terrorist attacks... In that context I believe you were only half misguided as there are Jewish people to protect, people for peace, common men and women like you and I. It is sadly, the war-mongering, lobbying, expansionist Jews who render the solution of peace impossible. For as long as there is forced expulsion, loss of land, of livelihood, there will be of course conflict. I wish you love and peace, and I admire so much your heartfelt confession as a gauge of your good heart and your good intentions. We all are on a journey of discovery of truths, and trust me, the deeper you dig, the more you will find that love begins and ends it. It is only through a long journey of research that I began to grow also immense love and empathy for common Jewish people as well and to differentiate them from Zionists. When we grow stronger in our love, clear in our message of absolute pacifism, of non-negotiable conflict resolution, of complete diplomatic support against all crimes, without prejudice, we shall one day no longer become ''instruments'' whether as supporters, or as supporters, of fights and conflicts none of us shall ever fight. It is no longer about taking sides, or clearly defining groups, or identifying them. As we said, not all Jewish people are zionist, and not all Palestinians are terrorists...It's not such a hard thing to conceive of. And both can be against war, and want the same outcome. So we need to talk about actions and behaviors which must be forbidden : war mongering, colonizing, killing of civilians, use of military force, etc. We really need on all fronts to stop the warmongerers who benefit from perpetuating this conflict. Thank you and take good care of yourself, Margaretta. Peace and love to you all.

[@soulabear9146]

Don't listen to MSM!!! Go meet and talk to People from both Sides. Listen to their Story. Listen to their Words, but more importantly watch their Actions. Breakdown and decide for yourself what is True. p.s. Teure to Zionism 😂

[@rmd8790]

​@@soulabear9146what is the meaning of "Teure to Zionism" ?

[@soulabear9146]

@@rmd8790 it's Cook Island for love

[@Section1983-th2iu]

Now you understand why women were raped and babies were kidnapped and murdered?

[@lous.1548]

i am a descendant of lebanese jews , I still hold lebanese passport. my family is mixed syrian and lebanese jews . and I confirm there was no issue and we consider ourselves lebanese . vive le liban

[@davidtrak2679]

There was no issue is quite an understatement. regarde le liban aujourdhui

[@mydraftable6526]

That's why you live in Lebanon and it's all a Shangri la. There's a reason there are no Jews left in the Arab world.

[@davidtrak2679]

@@mydraftable6526 He doesn't. That's the point, it's a shithole

[@Sufganiyot]

It isn't an issue unless you decide to move to Israel because Lebanon and Syria forbid Israelis from visiting their country. Seems kind of racist to me.

[@arsalakhan8098]

​@@SufganiyotSays a Zionist whose ideology is universally recognised as racist - even UNGA voted that Zionism is racism

[@heiketriesch7530]

I am a 77year young german woman, born by a Latvian mother and german father , living in ireland. I was and still am very deep into history. Thanks so much prof avi shlaim for this great interview, your details about the history of arab jews, i appreciate and admire how detailed and honest you talk and all is so clear, i feel your heart and soul. Thanks so much

[@nevillefernandez8933]

Honesty such as yours is a rarity today !

[@beanHole-ek3ib]

How did you end up in Ireland if I might ask?

[@mauraorourke9849]

​@@beanHole-ek3iba policeman wouldn't ask her that. If you are Irish you will know that = It's none of your business.

[@beanHole-ek3ib]

@@mauraorourke9849 It's called conversation Maura 😂

[@mauraorourke9849]

@@beanHole-ek3ib please forgive me. I.jumped the gun. If you are Irish you will understand with what was going on here some months ago with certain groups I got my mettle up thinking you might be a supporter. Hope you can read between the lines. Beannacht Leat

[@ahmednur2114]

Arab and jew we’re living together long time and they have common culture, but these current conflicts were invented by outsiders who don’t understand history of the Middle East, take it look how this outstanding professor marginalised.

[@interlaken4199]

It’s a great honor to watched Dr. Avi Shlaim interview God bless him. Long life to live!

[@J----L]

What a delight of a human being. As someone who is pretty down on humanity, I'll try to remember that smile as he talks about not giving up hope.

[@sarmadnajim4839]

iraqi jews were key middle class in iraqi society, iraqi jews can be considered as aboriginals like summerians , Assyrians they lived there since 6000bc ….its sad .. iraq lost its good sons and daughters

[@davidabulafia7145]

The Iraq Jews were there way before Islam came.

[@Sa7biUK]

@@davidabulafia7145 Yes thats what he/she is saying

[@omarfawzi9346]

Arab iraqis are aboriginals to. The asian arabs and the arab jews and the assyrians share common ancestors about 4000 to 5000 years ago according to DNA studies, the j1 and j2 gens. Islam is the bewest ibrahamic religion but arabs before islam in iraq existed and decendends from summer and babylon

[@NA-gg7uy]

@@davidabulafia7145nobody cares whether or not the Jews were there first. Islam is the Truth and reigns supreme over all religions.

[@adambrownhussein6525]

@@davidabulafia7145 The FIRST Muslims were Adam(pbuh) and Eve(Hawa-Gbph)

[@julietmckenzie2596]

This gentle man has taught me so much about the history of the region, and the beauty that can arise when people are allowed to live in peace. Like him, I have hope. I believe there will come at time when pluralism of states, religions, authorities will be the norm. This is the first time I have visited this channel. It will not be my last. Thank you both.❤

[@shimonT16]

There is a saying: A half truth is sometimes worse than a lie! -------------- There were times and there were times. In Arab countries there were pogroms against both Jews and Christians. This is why there are almost no Christians and Jews in Arab countries today! In contrast, the number of Muslims in the State of Israel is constantly increasing! The pogroms against the Jews spread mainly since Jewish immigration to the Land of Israel began. One of the well-known is the "Parhud Pogrom" in which between 500-1000 Jews were murdered! Thousands were injured and much Jewish property was looted. The described exodus from Iraq was actually part of the mass deportation of about 800,000-900,000 Jews from Arab countries in 1945-1952 - refugees that the world does not talk about!

[@moevli5927]

What a human being ❤❤ All love and respect from Egypt Professor

[@SURAH267]

A true respectful Jewish man , he speak the truth , I have meet Arab Jews , a beautiful couple from Syria , who told me that was exactly how they were made to feel ,

[@jabotniskyabraham4766]

This man from Iraq Avi Shlaim is the biggest liar on earth. All his speeches to earn money and to sell his books to the Arabs and Muslims nation Every Arabs and Muslims should read the Quran verse 5:20-21 and explain to the whole world what is written I bet no one will say the truth what is written

[@IOSPBITBRNO]

Assyrian historian here. Assyrians ܐܫܘܪܝܐ (Ashooraaye) اشورين (Ashureen) אשורים (Ashureem) Arabs العرب (Al-Arab) ערבים (Arabeem) ܥܪܒܝܐ (Arabaaye) Jews יהודים (Yahudeem) ܝܗܘܕܝܐ (Hudhaaye) يهودين (Yahudeen) We are all brothers and of lands rich of history, strength, faith, beauty, and values. Let us not tear each other down.

[@IOSPBITBRNO]

ܫܠܡܐ ܥܠܘܿܟ݂ܘܼܢ - Shlaama illokhun سلام عليكم - Asalaamu Alaykum שלום עליכם - Shalom aleikhem

[@komninosm]

Weren't Assyrians genocided by the Turks?

[@IOSPBITBRNO]

@@komninosm Yes, in the late 19th and 20th centuries.

[@charlottewhite5006]

Thank you so much for interviewing Prof Shlaim - his story needs to be heard

[@mariannehanson5530]

Avi Shlaim is a wonderful gentleman and scholar. I was lucky enough to be a student of his at Oxford from 1988-1993. He was unforgettably erudite, measured in his views, and immensely kind. Greetings from Australia.

[@___Anakin.Skywalker]

how did you get admitted to oxford coming from Australia

[@JoeLondon-te3hf]

​@@___Anakin.Skywalker She probably walked there.

[@ncamisilengubane-sibiya5475]

What a privilege you have had to interview a legendary historian, Arab, Jew, teacher and wonderful human being. Beautiful and uplifting. Thank you.

[@PodcastCentral333]

he's not an arab' lmfao. jews have nothing to do with arabs, jews are smart

[@watup3494]

Arabs are conqurers and such hypocrites. They care so much about few million pelastinians having their rights, they want yet another Arab country but nono for Kurds the indiginous people to have their own country. Kurds having been slaughtered by Arabs for over 100 years and its ok. The occupied Kurdish land. Baghdad was a kurdish city. Bagdad in Kurdish means land of lords. Bags were lords and my family are Bags and many Kurds! If you search in Arabic there is no meaning for Bagdad and just says online city of peace which should be مدینە السلام(madina alsalam) so why don't they say madina alsalam? Because Bag dad are both Kurdish words again! Also Kerbela the Holly city for shia muslims was a kurdish city and it means Ker+bela= donkey is probpem! You see Kurds are the indiginous people of that land and they used Donkeys to move goods around and one time donkeys got sick so they said Kerbela=donkey is problem. So the place became Kerbela and Arabs moved there from Arabia and took over and made the city Holly place for Shia muslims to come spend their money there. As a kurd I laugh everytime I hear Kerbela 😅😅😅😅😅😅 Now we Kirds don't want to take back all of our land but to keep the little left and live in peace with the rest of the people. There won't be peace as long as there is no Kurdistan! Watch war crimes of British empire against the Kurds. Watch how Turkey is bringing back the ottoman empire. NATOS BIGGEST problem right now Turkey. Turkey has been supplying with ISIS with weapons and gets them out of prisons by attacking the prisons in West Kurdistan. Kurds fought ISIS and are still to this day fighting ISIS.😢😢😢😢 I believe that if all Arab countries were ok with Kurdistan, then the Middle East would become heaven. Kurds fought ISIS for the whole world. Please let the Kurds have peace at last!😢😢

[@MrSammah]

God bless all truth tellers and truth seekers … thank you Avi

[@xio_part_2]

Amen

[@sfgoddard]

A truly amazing analysis from Avi Shlaim's life-time's experience as an Arab-Jew from Iraq who came to Israel as a child. A shimmer of a glimmer of optimism for one truly united all-inclusive State, sadly further away than ever as most of us, in October 2023, cultivate the seeds that divide rather than seeing our common humanity. Good will eventually prevail. Thank you for a great interview.

[@UmmuFarras]

Mr. Shlaim is such a joy to listen to. A treasure of humanity.

[@mohammedalfadhal8157]

تحية حارة الى هذا الشخص المبدع العراقي اليهودي الجميل، لقاء ممتع و جميل و مليء بالمعلومات القيمة

[@esmaanderson1802]

Thank you for a wonderful interview and conversation that presented a microcosm of mutual respect and understanding. Thank you, Mohammad Hasan, for this interview with this gentle intellectual, prof Avi Shlaim. I was deeply moved by his story and experiences. The history of Israel and Palestine is filled with loss, pathos and grief. I could have listened to him for four hours! Thank you for offering this discourse to shine a light on the plight of Palestine from a different angle. We need more voices like his in the world.

[@Kiki-Delivering]

The depth this adds to the picture of the conflict is so needed.

[@lubalink9674]

A wonderful enlightening interview. We need more of these interviews to understanding the current issues in Israel much appreciated

[@shimonT16]

There is a saying: A half truth is sometimes worse than a lie! -------------- There were times and there were times. In Arab countries there were pogroms against both Jews and Christians. This is why there are almost no Christians and Jews in Arab countries today! In contrast, the number of Muslims in the State of Israel is constantly increasing! The pogroms against the Jews spread mainly since Jewish immigration to the Land of Israel began. One of the well-known is the "Parhud Pogrom" in which between 500-1000 Jews were murdered! Thousands were injured and much Jewish property was looted. The described exodus from Iraq was actually part of the mass deportation of about 800,000-900,000 Jews from Arab countries in 1945-1952 - refugees that the world does not talk about!

[@zimmyadams5122]

Wow what a story teller we must learn from the past it’s very sad how they suffered in the past and now the Palestinian is suffering. May almighty Allah help son of Adam live peace

[@satirical1234]

Now this is truly ‘AUTHENTIC and JUST’ …. Bless this good soul for his SINCERITY

[@ewa5803]

Fantastic interview! So informative, such a gentle, inteligent, wise person. I congratulate you on your choice of guest

[@aliciagardner3288]

This is a must watch interview. Thank you SO much for interviewing Professor Avi Shlaim. The world needs more people like him.

[@randolphkoch2267]

No, it doesn’t.

[@TorkomMovsesiyan]

The world needs more amazing humans and academics like Prof. Avi Shlaim. I'm definitely buying his book. Can't wait to read it!

[@rachelduncan1501]

I promise you will love his book! I was lucky to see him talking live at a literature festival and bought his book then. He has the most gentle and considerate manner.

[@user-bo8nb2mi]

@@rachelduncan1501 gentle indeed and that is to be praised.. But does his crowd admire, respect gentleness or bravado strength.

[@Nisa-bp8ou]

Indeed. I too, will read his books!

[@ciara5867]

Thank you all for this fascinating discussion. Professor Avi Schlaim is an outstanding academic and individual.♥️🇮🇪

[@milkasyatha1911]

Wisdom and peace, i need to share this👌🏿

[@AlimKhan-ev3wf]

Such a loving and kind person. I can listen to him for years... Love from India.

[@EN-ku3cd]

A very honest explanation of the situation in Israel. What a shame his words are not heard.

[@zoharok]

i think you should concentrate on what he said about ethnic cleansing of jews in iraq which was an official policy of the iraqi government. but for you it is ok because jews have right s only while they dont piss somebody off. Now you call them brothers. Iraqui jews are thriving in Israel now. not even one would return to the country that expelled them afetr hundreds of years

[@cestbonbon5961]

This is an interesting interview, but the host focused more on Jews from the Middle East and forgot about the North African jews. 280,000 Moroccan jews moved to Israel between 1948 and 2016. In fact, Israelis of Moroccan descent today account for more than 800,000 and are the 2nd largest immigrant group in Israel. Also let's not forget Algerian and Tunisian jews.

[@anwarshahata8861]

And many Libyan jews as well

[@riab3591]

I’m a bit confused here, is it a good thing that all the Jews that migrated from other countries to the illegal established state that is called Israel? Or is there another reason you want them to be mentioned?

[@HousnaA]

The Moroccan king at that time protected jews. I wonder if he focused on the middle east jews because that's what he experienced.

[@annabondaruk4583]

He is focusing on Middle Eastern jews because he is a witness to what was going on for that community. So it’s study + personal perspective.

[@isaklein8230]

It would be great if some of those Maroccan, Algerian o Tunisian Jews tell the world their experience en Israel.

[@equusasinus]

This is an inspiring interview which gives enormous food for thought but also hope and light for those looking for a solution. Sadly, few are looking for solutions, but at least those few can find a friend in Avi Shlaim. In October 2023 this whole mess has exploded again - in a predictable repeat of the horror - and I can only lament the part of Britain in this. It all started with the Balfour Declaration, then the disgraceful behaviour of Britain as an occupying force over the next few decades, and in the end the present day problems were neither created by Arabs nor Jews, but by the British; and for that I am truly ashamed of my country.

[@hatimaheddar2411]

You notice that unfortunately only the evil and Machiavellian hold power. That's the human condition.

[@lesleycook2326]

I'm also ashamed of Britain

[@kathyjones274]

The British metaphorically blew things up in many countries with exploring,then taking over stripping resources etc.etc. and 👀 👀 👀 👀 👀 👀 👀 👀we could go on about other countries, town, city, state etc,but we won't because the one thing is sure, is that we are all grown, grown-ups are hurting innocent people on all sides, but democracy is a great experiment and will continue. This is a well versed, little ol'man that speaks like us all, saying these were the best of times and, these were the worst of times and I needed to know what happened. He found out a few other facts and was satisfied then wrote the book

[@kathyjones274]

We must never be satisfied???

[@SonalRamnathkar]

India has similar complaints regards the partition

[@eliasshalhoub582]

This is the first time I saw a video of Avi i love his honesty and humanity he gives me a lot of hope.

[@harriet4564]

So much and respect for this beautiful, integrity truthful principled soul, thank you for speaking truth and what’s right even when truth isn’t popular or even gets you “cancelled” life/career destroyed.🙏❤️

[@rachelduncan1501]

I'm reading Professor Shlaim's book right now - it is a wonderful and humane book and I highly recommend it - it's a fabulous read, and I wish it were twice the length!

[@richardsimms251]

Professor Shlaim is a fascinating guest. Top quality program. RS. Canada

[@dannybarrs]

I spent a few months on a Kibbutz in 1968 and witnessed some of the elements discussed by Professor Shlaim. I chose not to stay but have been back a few times since and have seen the situation deteriorate from a moral perspective. Such a shame for Israel, the Arabs and the whole world. He is right: there are many things in life which do not correlate to a binary approach!

[@ayaabunada5967]

Respect for not staying there

[@LallyCo2]

True wisdom and gentleness, what an amazing man, an example to us all.

[@user-ep9ig1og5j]

He has no wisdom. You and many more are just an ordinary simple people that are impressed easily with an educated person but being smart and educated has nothing to do with wisdom. Wisdom is not for the mass.

[@AdultThirdCultureKid1971]

This interview with Professor Avi Shlaim is informative. Thank you. 😊

[@DanS8204]

This is a compelling and enlightening interview, and I thank you for sharing it.

[@delhadi00]

Given current events, this is so poignant. It’s like Professor Avi foresaw. Loved this episode. He is so refreshing. A true Iraqi from a time gone by ❤

[@sunilkj6695]

Prof Avi Shlaim God Bless You.

[@jabotniskyabraham4766]

The corrupt and the liar Avi will burn 🔥 in hell because he is telling lies and after lies Ask this idiot to read the Quran verse 5:20-21 and explain what is written Come on liar challenge me

[@haririnm8566]

يا عيني يا حبيبي! أنا برضو من الشعب العربي، وفخور إنو نشوف الأخوة والتضامن بينا. الله يسعدك ويبارك فيك وفي جميع العرب واليهود مع بعض. الحب كبير يا رفيق! إذا في شي تاني بتحتاجه، قوللي بس. أنا هنا لمساعدتك! ❤️

[@jjttwig]

Greatly refreshing to hear such an intelligent and honest view and to learn some little known history. Excellent program!

[@tanjalauramarketta]

What an absolutely fascinating, wise and well-spoken guest! I cannot wait to get to know his work and read his memoir! Thank you so much for this fantastic opportunity to get to know professor Avi Schlaim!

[@Tara-ue4gg]

Awesome interview with a great personality ! Enjoyed every second of 54 minutes ! Thanks a lot.

[@dwatmajihanomanresi9638]

O Allah, I pray that I can return the time to an era where the Palestinian people could still coexist peacefully between Palestinian Muslim Arabs, Palestinian Christians and Palestinian Jews. I always pray day and night for peace between those who are currently fighting over an inch of Palestinian land, to be awakened to dialogue and to live in peace loving one another. they are actually brothers and adhere to the same religion, namely a religion that worships God Almighty. O Allah, accept my prayer. so that Palestine or Jerusalem becomes a land where all human beings in the world can live in peace loving one another. Past mistakes can forgive one another to live in peace forever in Your Promised Land.

[@factsoverfear9771]

What does Allah say about Arabs having a 1000 yr African sl⚠️ve trade ? 💡

[@davidtrak2679]

Amen. That era was pretty short lived, ended in 1921

[@cindymcconnell5864]

The professor is a gentleman.. May God answer your heartfelt prayers and show you the truth.......The quaran does not teach that we all worship one God and should live in peace. The quran states that Jews and Christians are infidels and will be the ones given as a ransom from hell to forgive Muslim, sins... The one true God, gave Himself as a sacrifice for mankind in order too bring man into everlasting communion with Him. We do not earn God's love by our deeds as the quoran teaches, We accept Jesus who gives us eternal life as a free gift and pardon for sinning against God. Th8s pardon is eternal and only requires our following and obeying His word, which declares that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Religions can never live in peace, because at their route are different beliefs about God and whether we admit it or fool ourselves this fact will always create division and destruction of souls which permeates outwards......🙏

[@notabotiswear6980]

As I watch this I sense so many similarities with my own experience as a Chicano growing up in California, USA. I've always felt out of place and like I didn't belong. To my face they're calling me an "American" but I know my history and I feel the overall negative sentiment towards Chicanos/Mexicans/Mexican-Americans in American society. My heart goes to Palestine, to the Arab Jews who lost their identity, to all the anti-zionists struggling against injustice and struggling for identity, culture, and existence!

[@avinaughty]

So Zionists are the enemy? So Israel should be destroyed?

[@edsonjacobcadora2161]

Falou a pura verdade 👏👏

[@annamamo3645]

It was a pleasure listening to The Professor! Not to mention learning home truths from a Genuine Jew and Arab rolled into one Honest Human being.May his expectations come to fruition.

[@berylackermann8240]

I do so respect this precious man Avi Shlaim. I have seen a few of his videos. Bless him.

[@AM-uw7bs]

This is a wonderfully informative interview. It is so important. I will share it with as many people as I can. Thank you both for posting this on You Tube.

[@stephaniecarrow4898]

Thank you for this enlightening interview with a person of gentle, intelligent, courageous soul. I am Jewish, anti-zionist, and while I knew there were Arab Jews, I never knew any of this in detail. We in the US are so indoctrinated. Prof Shlaim went through a journey of discovery, and so have I over the years. So do many Jews who realize they've been raised on myths and lies. I've known that Zionism is antithetical to Judaism, but one thing this interview makes clear is just how destructive Zionism has been even for many Jews, although of course the damage has been far worse for Palestinians and others. Peace and love to all people of the world. ❤

[@fbcork2003]

My father has spoken of thousands of Yemeni Jews who lived alongside Muslim Yemenis in Yemen, those were better times.

[@fbcork2003]

You should look up Yemeni Jewish singing, you will like it. Let me see if I can find one for you.

[@fbcork2003]

Here's one I've liked a lot sung by 𝑺𝒉𝒊𝒓 𝑮𝒂𝒅𝒂𝒔𝒊 in Biblical Hebrew with original Yemeni accent - kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6uYh2CXYtqlnbMfeature=shared (Make sure you read the description bit. Scholars are fascinated by 'Yemenite-accented' Hebrew, regarding it as a very close to the Hebrew of biblical times; the Yemenite were the only Jewish community to have lived continuously - and insulated - in one country for at least two and half thousand years. )

[@imisstoronto3121]

how are you any different than those who try to kill us? disgusting.

[@Bananabear20]

Why is the right to want self-determination antithetical to being Jewish?

[@maryannegallagher8777]

Brilliant interview, I've already ordered his book!! Thanks so much I am genuinely enjoying your channel & learning alot in the process. 👏 From NZ.

[@saturdayboy4454]

An inspirational interview with a man who has something to teach us all

[@jamalshehumani3266]

I have always love this Prof.Avi Shlaim ♥️

[@samara6041]

Loved this episode, thank you for hosting professor Avi!

[@georgiadim5333]

Prof Avi Shlaim, thank you and God bless you and all your loved ones!

[@radwanabu-issa4350]

I am amazed no matter how strong efforts are made to cover the truth, the truth is able to shine sooner or later! It is still a long way for justice but it started and no force can stop it!

[@vcab6875]

Brilliant man. This video should be required viewing by ALL seeking solution to the current disaster.

[@curiouscat98]

What an extraordinary story. Fantastic interview. Very honest and informative.

[@mhsidibe1]

These are the voices that are desperately needed today. I am so glad he wrote this book!

[@shahidakhan7633]

Thank you so much sir for enlightening us with so much valid information which we needed to know . It was absolute pleasure listening to your gentle voice .

[@rickipacaci1338]

It’s a disgrace the way they were welcomed to Israel. I hate hearing this but I understand because I lived in Israel and witnessed the division between the Askenazi and Spherdic population. Honestly it was a disgrace after what happened in Germany!!!!

[@CC-dx6bc]

Aske-nazi?? isn’t that a misspelling

[@sharmilaabidine2132]

Beautiful interview, such a soft guest, learned so much. Thank you!

[@jeanniedrinkwater9540]

Thank you so much for this interview. So important to hear from someone with his knowledge and experience.

[@miriamfagueret3113]

Thank you for this great interview. It just says it all!!

[@sarahmiller5632]

Fascinating! I learned a lot that I had always wondered about. Thank you so much.🇨🇦

[@cbrace]

This interview appears to have taken place before 7 Oct (?), but Avi Shlaim's message is more relevant than ever. Wonderful discussion!

[@billmurphy6451]

Awesome interview. The world people need to hear this

[@rickipacaci1338]

Fascinating history. Excellent account. I enjoyed hearing him speak🙏🏻

[@user-bo8nb2mi]

It's a worldwide known social phenomena that groups who immigrate to a new country become subjects of discrimination by veterans of same country at least until another new group immigrates and replaces older group etc.

[@Bustahip]

Excellent work! Thorough, reasonable and entertaining. I love that you back everything up with references and punctuate with pop culture inserts. Bravo!

[@evelynbarry5046]

Ii can listen to this man for hours. He talk was not an attempt to persuade but to tell a story.

[@waltonjones5411]

This was very enlightening! A perspective of someone who has lived through the transition.

[@alm5985]

The Nations can react rationally after they have lost other Alternatives.Great Words by professor Avi Shlaim.

[@anniewright9640]

Wonderful and clear explanation . Many blessings for professor Shlain

[@bes1441]

Yes ! Prof is an excellent example of a true respectable and talented man, very few of human kind ! Should be a role model to all academics! May he be blessed with good health and happiness always!

[@bhattach4]

Very enlightening and very well produced. I will be reading his book. Thank you.

[@shifrawanden8027]

Wow! Great educator. Love him and the way he explains the situation.

[@angelagladstone8863]

This is a really helpful conversation to piece this complex puzzle together. Thank you

[@user-ok1el9mg4h]

Yes, we definitely need more voices like him being heard, loud and clear! A true Gentleman and erudite scholar. Incredibly informative Interview. Thank you!

[@magdeykarrass7747]

There we a lot of people from all nationalities lived Egypt but the Egyptian Jews were an integral part of ethnic Egyptians, it was very sad to see them leave in the early sixties, Egypt has never been the same without them, I hope one day this good old days will come back again

[@skp8748]

Both my grandmother's are Yemeni Jews and I concur. The kibbutz was fine for religious people but the zionist colonial project created chaos everywhere displacing my grandmother's from the home her father built with his own hands because she was no israeli and her Yemeni identity taken away. Exact impact that nazis had throughout Europe where French, Romanian, Ukrainian ect all turned on their fellow countrymen because the nazis assigned them a supranational identity imposing the dual loyalty notion on them.

[@feranmiadeyemi416]

Are you egyptian? Do you think egyptian society is accepting of jews or at least egyptian jews? I'm genuinely curious. Honest answers please

[@feranmiadeyemi416]

​@skp8748 I thought yemeni jews are doing just fine in israel. At least that's what zionist propagandist says

[@edihayat]

​@@feranmiadeyemi416no lol.

[@Ashmooni]

@@feranmiadeyemi416 I remember when I was in elementary school in Alexandria, Egypt, I had Jewish classmates and there was no differentiation between Muslims, Christians and Jews. I still remember two summers blings who left the school and one of the two was telling me that he was going to the “School of the Israelite Community”. I didn’t understand it at that time but I was perplexed as to why go to a school for “Israelites”. I remember their father used to pick them up on a motorcycle that had a muffler that was making very loud noise. I also remember their names. They had Arabic names, Ziyad and Gasser.

[@rass2289]

Really enjoyed this interview

[@MegaEllemae]

Fabulous man and thank you for this fascinating interview!!!

[@ashmash4563]

What a lovely gentleman. So full knowledge and positive hope. Thanks for this amazing interview. Much more relevant today.