Articles in New York's magazine "Jewish Currents" express views supportive of the Palestinian cause by Jewish individuals
In the world of American Judaism, the small magazine Jewish Currents has gained a unique position. With a readership that is a minority in the conservative landscape, these readers are united by the defense of Palestinian rights and the radical critique of Israel. The magazine, which aims to criticize Israel without abandoning its Jewish identity, has been under increased scrutiny since Arielle Angel was appointed editor-in-chief in 2021.
Arielle Angel, who is also the owner of a small black and white dog named Lola, has been in the spotlight due to the recent Gaza war triggered by Israel and the terrorist attacks of October 7, 2023, perpetrated by Hamas. The pressure on Angel and the situation of Jewish Currents are likely related, as the magazine has been vocal in denouncing Israeli crimes in Gaza, a stance that has not ceased since the attacks.
Adam Shatz, a writer and regular contributor to the New York Review of Books, has also been a vocal critic of Israeli actions in Gaza. He is also an editor of the prestigious London Review of Books for the United States and has authored a biography of the anti-colonial thinker Frantz Fanon.
The irony of Lola's behavior and the situation in the Middle East may not be apparent to Angel. After being attacked by another dog a month ago, Lola has become fearful and aggressive. This mirrors the fear and aggression felt by many in the Jewish community due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
However, the influence of the readers of Jewish Currents is growing. They are a minority in the conservative galaxy of American Judaism, but their voices are becoming louder and more impactful. The position of Jewish Currents is to carry the voice, worldview, and heritage of left-wing anti-Zionist Jews, and it appears that this position is resonating with more and more people.
In September 2024, the New Yorker defined Angel's role as editor-in-chief of Jewish Currents. The magazine's stance on Israel and its support for Palestinian rights have put Angel in a difficult position, but she has remained steadfast in her commitment to the magazine's mission. The future of Jewish Currents and its editor-in-chief remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the magazine's influence is growing, and its voice is becoming more important in the ongoing debate about Israel and Palestine.
