Shay Kallach on Jewish Identity: Jerusalem & LA

Israel at a Crossroads: A Former Fighter Pilot on Identity, Renewal, and the Failures of October 7th

(Newsblaze) – As Israel navigates a period of profound internal and external challenges, a critical voice often missing from the English-speaking world is that of Shay Kallach. A former F-16 fighter pilot and founder of the grassroots movement Netzach Israel (“the eternity of Israel”), Kallach offers a stark assessment of the nation’s current predicament and a roadmap for future renewal. This interview delves into his viewpoint on Jewish identity, the failures leading up to the October 7th attacks, and the urgent need for Israelis to reclaim their sovereignty.

Why this Matters: The ongoing conflict in Israel and the internal divisions it has exposed demand a deeper understanding of the forces at play.Kallach’s insights, regularly featured in Israeli media, provide a crucial perspective often lost in translation. This article aims to bridge that gap, offering a nuanced analysis for a wider audience.

Who is Shay Kallach?

Shay Kallach isn’t a politician, but a patriot driven to action. After serving as an F-16 fighter pilot in the Israeli Air Force,he founded Pilots Against Refusal – a direct response to a growing movement of reserve pilots threatening to refuse orders. He then established Netzach Israel, a movement rooted in the biblical verse “The Eternity of Israel will not lie” (1 Samuel 15:29), symbolizing enduring faith in the nation’s resilience.

But for Kallach, “eternity” isn’t simply about faith.Its about empowering the people and dismantling the influence of what he calls the “deep state” – the entrenched bureaucracy that he believes has stifled Israeli sovereignty. Netzach Israel advocates for active civic engagement and a renewed focus on Jewish identity as the foundation for national strength.

“Time to Wake Up!” – A Conversation with Shay Kallach

newsblaze: What led you to become politically involved, and what happened on October 7th, 2023?

Shay Kallach: I’m not officially in politics. Becoming an activist wasn’t planned; the public drew me into it. It began with opposing the reserve pilots’ refusal movement. While declining volunteerism is a trend, calling for refusal of orders was unprecedented – and perilous.

The Air Force has two critical roles: defending Israel’s skies and serving as a strategic arm of the IDF. Yet, it hadn’t adequately prepared for repelling a ground invasion. That failure became tragically clear on October 7th, when Hamas invaded and attacked.

The Warning Signs Ignored

Prior to the attack, Israel was consumed by widespread protests. Leaders leveraged a small number of reserve pilots as symbols in their campaign to topple the government. Ironically,these same pilots didn’t refuse orders after October 7th,revealing a fundamental disconnect – their pre-war threats were more damaging then any inaction during the conflict.

For the first eight hours of the invasion, the Air Force was largely absent. This wasn’t a matter of military incapacity, but of political distraction. We were focused inward, while our enemies were preparing to strike.

The Core Issues: Identity and Sovereignty

Kallach’s analysis extends beyond the immediate failures of October 7th. He argues that a crisis of Jewish identity and a weakening of national consciousness have left israel vulnerable.

“We’ve lost sight of who we are,” he explains. “The focus has shifted from building a strong, unified nation to appeasing various factions and succumbing to external pressures. The ‘deep state’ prioritizes self-preservation over the needs of the people.”

Judicial Overreach and the Path to Renewal

Kallach also points to judicial overreach as a significant factor contributing to the current crisis. He believes the courts have encroached on the authority of the elected government, undermining democratic principles and creating a climate of instability.

However, he remains optimistic about Israel’s future. “Renewal is possible, but it requires courage, honesty, and a willingness to challenge the status quo,” he asserts.”We must reclaim our sovereignty, strengthen our Jewish identity, and prioritize the security and well-being of our people.”

The Call to Action: Kallach’s message is a wake-up call for Israelis – and for anyone who cares about the future of the nation. He urges citizens to become actively involved in shaping their country’s destiny, to demand

Given Shay Kallach’s dual experience in Jerusalem and Los Angeles, how does he see the role of technology in bridging the gap between these two distinct Jewish communities and fostering a shared understanding of Jewish identity in the 21st century?

Shay kallach on Jewish Identity: A Dual Perspective from Jerusalem & LA

The Intersection of Jewish Identity: A Global Dialog

Shay Kallach, a prominent figure in Jewish thought and activism, offers a unique vantage point on Jewish identity. his experiences in both Jerusalem and Los Angeles provide a rich tapestry of perspectives,allowing for a nuanced understanding of Jewish identity in the 21st century. This article delves into his insights,exploring how these two vibrant Jewish communities shape and influence each other,examining the contrasts,complexities,and common ground in what it means to be Jewish.

Understanding Jewish Identity: Core Elements

Before exploring Kallach’s viewpoints, it’s notable to understand the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity. It encompasses:

• Religious Beliefs and Practices: Observance of Jewish law (Halakha) and faith.
• Cultural Heritage: Traditions, customs, and values passed down through generations.
• Ethnic Background: Shared ancestry and historical experiences.
• Political Affiliations: Zionism or other ideologies related to the Jewish people.
• Community Involvement: participation in Jewish organizations and communal activities.

Shay Kallach’s Jerusalem: The Heart of jewish Tradition

For Kallach, Jerusalem represents the spiritual and historical heart of the Jewish people.He often speaks about the profound connection to the land and the weight of history that permeates the city. His insights often touch upon:

The significance of Jerusalem in Jewish Life

Jerusalem is central to Jewish prayers, rituals, and everyday life.It’s a city filled with both ancient history and modern vibrancy, a place where tradition meets contemporary living.Jerusalem as a cultural hub is an important part of his view.

Key aspects of jerusalem’s significance include:

• The Western wall (Kotel): A symbol of Jewish resilience and connection to the past.
• Religious Institutions: Synagogues,yeshivas,and other centers of Jewish learning.
• Unique Culture: Festivals, food, and community dynamics deeply rooted in Jewish heritage.

Shay Kallach often references his personal experiences in Jerusalem, highlighting the intensity and significance of experiencing life there for his development of Jewish identity.

Shay Kallach’s los Angeles: Jewish Life in the Diaspora

Los Angeles, with it’s large and diverse Jewish population, provides a different context for understanding Jewish identity. Kallach’s perspective focuses on:

Diaspora Jewish Life: A Contrasting View

In LA, Jewish life takes on a different form, shaped by the cultural landscape of the United States. This contrasts with the intensity of Jerusalem and reveals the adaptability of Jewish culture in the diaspora.Compared to Jerusalem, its approach is fundamentally different. Jewish life in LA frequently enough means:

• cultural Assimilation and Integration: Balancing Jewish traditions with American life.
• Community Building: Maintaining a strong sense of belonging through synagogues, community centers, and Jewish organizations.
• Political Engagement: Actively participating in social and political issues significant to the Jewish community.
• Diversity within the Community: The presence of different Jewish movements, from orthodox to Reform, shapes the diverse, dynamic landscape.

A Comparative Table: Jerusalem vs. los Angeles (LA)

feature	Jerusalem	Los Angeles (LA)
Primary Focus	Religious and Historical Center	Diaspora Jewish Life, Cultural Integration
Community Structure	More Homogeneous; strong sense of tradition.	Diverse, with a broader range of religious and cultural expressions. Diaspora-based.
daily Life	More steeped in religious practice; influenced by the rhythm of the Jewish calendar.	Greater emphasis on integration,with a blend of Jewish and Western lifestyles.
Cultural Expression	Deeply traditional, with a strong connection to history and heritage.	Adaptable embracing the diverse Jewish movements.

Shay Kallach’s Observations: Bridging the Gap

Kallach’s insights on the relationship between Jerusalem and LA are central to understanding his contribution.

Key themes in Kallach’s Work

Key themes that frequently enough emerge in his discussions:

• The importance of connection to Israel for all Jewish people.
• The challenges and opportunities of balancing tradition.
• The role of Jewish leadership in building a stronger community.

He recognizes that even though these communities live in different environments, both share a common heritage and should engage in a meaningful conversation about the future of Jewish values and identity.

Practical Tips for Connecting with Jewish Identity

Based on Kallach’s insights, consider these tips:

1. Learn: Study Jewish history, culture, and traditions.
2. Engage: Participate in Jewish community events and organizations.
3. Visit: If possible, experience Jewish life in both Jerusalem and your local community.
4. Reflect: Regularly consider what Jewish identity means to you.
5. Connect with the diaspora: Engage in conversation with Jewish people across the world.

Real-world Examples of Intercommunity Collaboration

Examples of initiatives that embody the understanding of Jewish identity:

• Community partnerships between Jerusalem-based organizations and Los Angeles-based synagogues.
• Educational exchange programs for students and young professionals.
• Online platforms facilitating dialogue about Jewish culture and values.

These collaborative efforts highlight how Kallach’s perspective encourages connection across geographical and cultural boundaries.