Middle East Eye

Rabbi Elhanan Beck: “Zionism Is Not Judaism” | UNAPOLOGETIC

• March 29, 2026
• Interviews
• Anti-Zionism
• Middle East Eye
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In this episode of UNAPOLOGETIC, Rabbi Elhanan Beck delivers one of the most striking and controversial critiques of Zionism and the current Israeli–U.S. wars in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.

Drawing on his understanding of the Torah, Rabbi Beck argues that the modern state of Israel has no religious legitimacy. He goes even further—describing Benjamin Netanyahu as “Amalek,” a force that, in his view, leads people away from God.

The Rabbi also makes strong claims about Israel’s military doctrine, suggesting that if necessary, it would use nuclear weapons and that “no price is too high”—even implying that millions could be killed to achieve its goals.

Throughout the conversation, we explore the theological foundations behind these views, including discussions on the Messiah, the rebuilding of the Temple, and the concept of Greater Israel. At the same time, Rabbi Beck emphasizes his belief in the possibility of peaceful Jewish–Muslim coexistence.

Chapters

0:00 – Opening Highlights
2:21 – Zionism and Judaism
9:00 – Torah and Israel
16:13 – Zionism and Amalek
25:40 – The Idea of Greater Israel
32:30 – Red Cow and Temple
40:00 – What Is the Messiah?
47:40 – Judaism and Violence
52:00 – Jews and Muslims Coexist
58:00 – Anti-Semitism Debate
1:00:30 – Final Reflections