Why Israelis Embrace Conspiracy Theories After October 7th

In the weeks following the October 7th Hamas attacks, Israelis from various walks of life began expressing belief in conspiracy theories, suggesting internal betrayal or foreknowledge of the assault. Journalist Chen Liberman encountered such claims from a bereaved family who believed in an "inside betrayal" and from a taxi driver convinced that Shin Bet agents in the Gaza border region had received advance warnings. These theories, once on the fringes, have become more prevalent as Israel approaches the three-year anniversary of the massacre and faces upcoming elections.

In a podcast episode, Liberman and Dr. Adam Klein-Oron, an anthropologist specializing in belief systems from the Van Leer Institute, explore the psychological needs these conspiracy theories fulfill. They explain why such beliefs tend to flourish during times of crisis and uncertainty. The discussion also highlights the role of social media and politicians in amplifying these narratives, potentially eroding social solidarity.

The podcast delves into the broader implications of such widespread belief in unsubstantiated claims, questioning their impact on societal cohesion and trust in institutions. The phenomenon is examined through the lens of how individuals and communities cope with trauma and seek explanations for catastrophic events.