Dear Jonathan Glazer,

I’ve always wondered why saying what everyone expects to hear is often labeled as courageous, while voicing unpopular truths seems to brand us as cowards. There’s a pervasive belief, especially among certain progressive circles in America, that their views, which often disregard the complex facts on the ground, should dominate global discourse.

Despite my deep respect for your artistic prowess and acknowledging that “The Zone of Interest” is likely a cinematic triumph, I find your recent acceptance speech at the Academy Awards lacking in depth and understanding of the realities Israel faces. It seems you’re aiming to align with the prevailing sentiments of your peers rather than offering a nuanced critique of an incredibly complex situation.

You said: “Our film shows where dehumanization leads, at its worst. It shaped all of our past and present. Right now we stand here as men who refute their Jewishness and the Holocaust being hijacked by an occupation which has led to conflict for so many innocent people, whether the victims of October 7 or the ongoing attack on Gaza, all the victims of this dehumanization, how do we resist?”

Unlike you, Jonathan, I’ve spent the last two decades deeply immersed in various coexistence initiatives. This has not only solidified my grasp of the Israeli narrative but has also broadened my understanding of the Palestinian perspective. This dual insight has shown me the importance of a balanced discourse, one that acknowledges the intricacies of both narratives.

While I am also critical of Israel in plenty of things, simplifying such a multifaceted issue does a disservice to everyone involved, particularly those directly affected by the conflict.

Your commentary, though perhaps well-intentioned, struck me as an effort to court popularity rather than provoke thoughtful discussion. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with its deep historical roots and myriad of socio-political dimensions, cannot be reduced to simple binaries or sound bites.

Jonathan, stepping beyond the safety of like-minded approval to engage with the quiet opposition is where real dialogue — and change— begins. Will you extend your voice into these spaces?

Sincerely
Yair

Yair Nativ is the CEO of Mind Dome, ‘The First Line of Defense for Your Mind.’