Like Dreamers summary

Exploring the Lives of Paratroopers

In Like Dreamers by Yossi Klein Halevi, we are introduced to a group of Israeli paratroopers who played a significant role in the country's history. Halevi focuses on the 55th Paratroopers Brigade, who were responsible for capturing the Western Wall during the Six-Day War in 1967. This event had a profound impact on the soldiers, shaping their lives and the future of Israel.

We learn about the lives of these paratroopers, their diverse backgrounds, and their differing ideologies. The author provides a detailed account of the war's aftermath, exploring how the captured territories, including the Old City of Jerusalem, were integrated into Israel. This integration sets the stage for the diverging paths of the paratroopers, each influenced by their own interpretation of Zionism and the Israeli state.

Divergent Paths and Ideologies

As the narrative progresses, Like Dreamers delves into the lives of these paratroopers and their roles in shaping Israel's future. Yitzhak Rabin, the future Prime Minister, becomes a leading figure in Israeli politics. Arik Achmon, a capitalist, is instrumental in shaping Israel's economic policy. Udi Adiv, a socialist, becomes a radical activist, and many others take their own distinct paths.

The book presents the different ideologies that emerged within Israeli society following the war, including religious Zionism, secularism, socialism, and capitalism. These ideologies, shaped by the experiences of the paratroopers during the Six-Day War, continue to influence Israeli politics and society to this day.

Settlement Movement and Peace Activism

One of the most compelling aspects of Like Dreamers is the exploration of the settlement movement in the West Bank. The paratroopers, who had fought to capture these territories, find themselves on opposite sides of the debate. Some support the establishment of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, while others advocate for a two-state solution.

Yossi Klein Halevi also covers the peace process, focusing on the efforts of Rabin and his attempts to negotiate with the Palestinians. The book provides a comprehensive account of the complexities and challenges involved in achieving peace in the region, highlighting the deep divisions within Israeli society.

Personal Struggles and National Identity

Throughout Like Dreamers, we gain insight into the personal struggles of the paratroopers as they navigate their roles in shaping the destiny of Israel. The book offers a human perspective on the broader historical events, revealing the emotional and psychological impact of war and its aftermath.

In conclusion, Like Dreamers is a thought-provoking exploration of Israeli society and national identity. By following the divergent paths of the 55th Paratroopers Brigade, Yossi Klein Halevi provides a nuanced understanding of the complex forces that have shaped Israel since the Six-Day War, offering valuable insights into the country's past, present, and future.