HU Credits:
2
Degree/Cycle:
2nd degree (Master)
Responsible Department:
European Studies
Semester:
2nd Semester
Teaching Languages:
English
Campus:
Mt. Scopus
Course/Module Coordinator:
Dr. Daniel Aschheim
Coordinator Office Hours:
Teaching Staff:
Dr. Daniel Aschheim
Course/Module description:
Modern Diplomacy in Practice: The Israeli-European Relations as a Case Study offers an in-depth exploration of the dynamic and multifaceted nature of Israeli diplomacy in the contemporary world, with an emphasis on the Israel-European relations. Through an analysis of historical, political, and cultural factors, students will gain insights into the key principles, strategies, and challenges that shape Israel's diplomatic efforts on the global stage with an emphasis on Europe. The course will examine Israel's diplomatic relations with various countries and non-state actors, as well as its approaches to conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and security. Special attention will be given to Israel's role in regional geopolitics, its responses to evolving diplomatic crises, and its engagement in multilateral diplomacy initiatives. By critically assessing case studies and current events, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Israeli diplomacy and its implications for regional and international relations.
Course/Module aims:
Learning outcomes - On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Understanding the historical, political, and cultural contexts that shape Israeli diplomacy.
Analyzing the key principles, strategies, and challenges of Israeli diplomatic efforts.
Exploring Israel's diplomatic relations with various countries and non-state actors.
Assessing Israel's role in regional geopolitics and its engagement in multilateral diplomacy initiatives.
Developing critical thinking skills through the analysis of case studies and current events in Israeli diplomacy.
Cultivating a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Israeli diplomacy and its implications for regional and international relations.
Attendance requirements(%):
90
Teaching arrangement and method of instruction:
Course/Module Content:
24/3/25
Introduction to course: What does a diplomat do?
Diplomacy: is it still relevant in 2025?
Israeli Diplomacy – pre and post October 7
31/3/25 - no lesson (Daniel Abroad)
7/4/25
Mobilization and interaction techniques in international relations
14/4/25
Israel and Europe: goals, opportunities, and challenges
21/4/25
Israeli diplomacy and the US: goals, opportunities, and challenges Jewish Community, Minorities. Progressives
28/4/25
Israeli-European diplomatic partnership in the developing world (Israel in Africa+Mashav) Ethical and moral dilemmas in working in the developing world Simulations
5/5/25
What is the future for the Israel – Europe relations? Guest Speaker from the Europe Department, Israeli MFA
12/5/25
Public Speaking Workshop
19/5/25
The Diplomatic Meeting in Europe – theory and practice
Diplomatic Mingling simulation
26/5/25
Diplomatic Meeting in Europe Simulation and public speaking – Graded
9/6/25
Workplans as a critical diplomatic tool
Build an actual workplan for an Israeli embassy in Europe in 60 minutes / Public Speaking Workshop #2
16/6/25
Embassy Crisis Simulation – graded
23/6/25
Final Class
Required Reading:
Here are some suggested readings for the "Modern Israeli Diplomacy" course:
"Diplomacy: Theory and Practice" by G.R. Berridge - Provides a comprehensive overview of diplomatic principles and practices, offering a theoretical framework for understanding Israeli diplomacy.
"Israel's Foreign Policy: A Diplomatic History" by David Newman - Offers a historical perspective on Israeli diplomacy, tracing its evolution from the pre-state period to the present day.
"Israel's Secret Wars: A History of Israel's Intelligence Services" by Ian Black and Benny Morris - Explores the role of intelligence agencies in Israeli diplomacy and national security.
"The Oslo Accords: International Law and the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Agreements" by Geoffrey R. Watson - Analyzes the Oslo Accords and their implications for Israeli-Palestinian diplomacy and peace efforts.
"Israel and the Clash of Civilisations: Iraq, Iran and the Plan to Remake the Middle East" by Jonathan Cook - Examines Israel's diplomatic strategies in response to regional conflicts and the dynamics of the Middle East.
"Israel's Asymmetric Wars" by Jacob L. Shapiro - Investigates Israel's military and diplomatic responses to asymmetric threats, such as terrorism and unconventional warfare.
"The Israel-Arab Reader: A Documentary History of the Middle East Conflict" edited by Walter Laqueur and Barry Rubin - Offers a collection of primary source documents and essays that provide insights into the historical context of Israeli-Arab diplomacy.
"Israel's Water Wars: Towards a Resolution?" by Miriam R. Lowi - Explores the role of water resources in Israeli diplomacy and regional cooperation.
These readings cover a range of topics relevant to Israeli diplomacy, providing students with diverse perspectives and insights into the complexities of Israel's diplomatic relations and strategies.
Here are some recommended readings focusing on the relationship between Israel and the United States diaspora:
"The Jewish Americans: Three Centuries of Jewish Voices in America" by Beth Wenger - Offers a comprehensive overview of the Jewish American experience, examining the role of diaspora Jews in shaping U.S.-Israel relations and supporting Israel.
"American Jewry: A New History" by Jeffrey S. Gurock - Provides a historical perspective on the relationship between American Jews and Israel, tracing the evolution of their political, cultural, and religious ties.
"The Unmaking of Israel" by Gershom Gorenberg - Explores the tensions and challenges within the American Jewish community regarding Israel, including debates over Zionism, Jewish identity, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
"Dual Allegiance: Freud as a Modern Jew" by Moshe Idel - Examines the concept of dual loyalty among Jewish intellectuals, including their relationships with both the United States and Israel.
"The Crisis of Zionism" by Peter Beinart - Analyzes the changing dynamics of American Jewish support for Israel, including generational shifts and ideological divisions within the Jewish community.
"American Jews and America's Game: Voices of a Growing Legacy in Baseball" by Larry Ruttman - Explores the intersection of Jewish identity, American culture, and sports, shedding light on the diverse experiences of Jewish Americans and their connections to Israel.
These readings offer insights into the complex and multifaceted relationship between Israel and the U.S. diaspora, examining historical, cultural, and political factors that shape their interactions and mutual influences.
Here are some suggested readings focusing on Israeli diplomacy in Africa:
"Israel's Africa Strategy: A New Approach to Security and Diplomacy" by Yotam Gidron - Provides an in-depth analysis of Israel's diplomatic engagement with African countries, exploring the motivations, strategies, and challenges involved.
"Israel's Invisible Neighbors: A Diplomatic Journey in the Middle East" by Yoram Ettinger - Examines Israel's diplomatic efforts in Africa within the broader context of its regional relations and geopolitical interests.
Additional Reading Material:
Grading Scheme :
Written / Oral / Practical Exam 90 %
Active Participation / Team Assignment 10 %
Additional information:
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