Amid a global increase of antisemitism following October 7, 2023, Levi Hazen travels to Israel to uncover the truth about the October 7 attack on Israel, interviewing a wide array of Israelis whose personal stories challenge blatantly antisemitic perspectives and expose the evils of Hamas.

Shocked by the antisemitic rhetoric at Columbia University’s pro-Palestinian protests and in the West at large, Levi Hazen embarks on a journey through Israel to explore the perspectives and experiences of various Israelis affected by October 7 and the ensuing war. Two of Levi’s key interviewees are Shalev Biton and Noam Ben David, survivors of the 2023 Nova Music Festival Massacre. They give their first-hand, heart-wrenching accounts as victims of that ruthless attack, their stories highlighting the humanity of all citizens who lost their lives that day. In addition, Levi hears the story of Raz Tahan, whose husband was killed fighting in Gaza, leaving their four young children fatherless.

To give further context on the military and political contexts of the war, Levi interviews Doron Keidar, a special forces IDF soldier with combat experience in Gaza, and Itamar Marcus, the director of Palestinian Media Watch. Levi then gleans perspectives of intersecting love for the peoples of both sides from Anna Beth, a former pro-Palestinian activist, and Saleem Shalash, a pastor in Nazareth who explained why he supports Israel as an Arab.

Ultimately, Shadows of October shows the historical, spiritual, and human validity of Israel and her people. It cuts through worldwide antisemitic and anti-Israel hatred by displaying the nuanced realities of the ongoing conflict from a compassionate, Christian perspective.

For more information, visit https://www.rushingriver.org/shadows-of-october.