Jon Kaplan

“Conflict in the Holy Land: Modern Perspectives”

This presentation offers an overview of the evolution of violent conflict in the Holy Land, from the Ottoman period to modern times. It examines the influence of the Turkish empire, European powers, and the nationalist struggle between Jews and Arabs, alongside the emergence of Palestinian identity. The discussion also addresses the role of non-state jihadist groups since the late 20th century and explores potential paths to peace in today’s complex geopolitical environment.

Dr. Jon Kaplan

Jonathan Kaplan holds a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in Jewish History from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His major research interests include the history of the Zionist Movement, the modern Jewish settlement of the Holy Land and Israeli society. He has been a lecturer and administrator at the Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University, and served as the school’s Director of Undergraduate Studies and later as Vice Provost. Jon was born in the United States, and immigrated to Israel in 1972; since 1986 he has been on the JUC faculty. He is currently working on a book dealing with the moderate "Weizmannist" trend of Zionism which dominated the movement during the years between the two world wars.