Israeli Series 'Fauda' Tops Netflix Charts in Lebanon, Sparks Arab Debate

The Israeli television series "Fauda" has achieved significant viewership in Lebanon, becoming the most-watched show on Netflix in the country over the past two weeks. Residents interviewed in Lebanon openly admitted to following the series, with some having watched all available seasons. The latest season of the drama focuses on the October 7th attacks and has ignited widespread discussion across the Arab world regarding Israeli motivations for targeting Hamas operatives involved in the assault.

Lebanese journalist Ibrahim Rayhan commented that the series' plotlines, including a chase scene set in Marseille, France, convey a message that Israelis are prepared to pursue targets globally. A viral Arabic video described the show's narrative as portraying Israelis initially as victims, then as pursuers, and finally as avengers, while depicting armed Palestinians as terrorists.

Criticism in the Arab world extends beyond the show's Israeli narrative to the backgrounds of its creators and actors. Palestinian journalist Abeer Ayyoub noted on TikTok that the line between fiction and reality is blurred, given that the series' creator, Lior Raz, is a former Israeli undercover operative, and the lead actor, Idan Amedi, served in the Israeli military reserves after October 7th and was seriously injured in January 2024.

Alongside its popularity, calls for boycotting "Fauda" have circulated on social media. Rayhan also suggested that Israelis are leveraging cinema, advanced technology, and compelling plotlines, aided by the charisma of certain actors, to deliver their message.