More than two years after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, the war has been devastating.

After a shaky ceasefire collapsed, the Gaza Health Ministry reports almost 50,000 Palestinians are now dead from Israeli bombardments in Gaza, which now lays in ruins. 

All of this has left many American Jews — especially younger ones — in an uncomfortable situation. 

One week ago, hundreds of Jewish Voice for Peace activists were arrested for a protest outside Trump Tower over the detainment and potential deportation of green-card holder and Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil.

Still, many American Jews feel deeply uncomfortable criticizing Israel. American Jewish author and liberal journalist Peter Beinart says that’s because Jewish identity is tied to uncritical support of Israel. He hopes to change that in his new book, “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza.” 

WDET’s “All Things Considered” Host and reporter Russ McNamara spoke with Beinart about this and more before a talk he gave last week at a local synagogue in Ferndale.

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