Watch What If? Ehud Barak on War and Peace

What If? Ehud Barak on War and Peace is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the lens of one of Israel's most prominent political figures - Ehud Barak. The movie follows Barak as he reflects on his extensive career as a military commander, politician, and diplomat, and provides his unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities for peace in the troubled region. Through a series of interviews with Barak, as well as other key figures in Israeli politics and military command, What If? sheds light on the complex history of the conflict and the complex dynamics that currently exist between Israelis and Palestinians.

The movie is structured around several key themes, including Barak's view on the necessary conditions for a viable two-state solution, his belief in the importance of dialogue and negotiation, and his criticism of both Israeli and Palestinian leadership for failing to seize opportunities for peace. Throughout the film, Barak draws on his extensive experience in the region to make compelling arguments for the need for compromise and dialogue, and argues that only by acknowledging the legitimate concerns of both sides can a lasting peace be achieved.

One of the most compelling aspects of What If? is the way it contextualizes Barak's life and career within the broader political and historical landscape of the conflict. Through archival footage and expert analysis, the movie shows how Barak's leadership style and approach to diplomacy were shaped by both his experiences on the battlefield and his understanding of the region's complex history and cultural dynamics.

Perhaps what is most impressive about the movie is the way it manages to be both informative and engaging. The filmmakers avoid falling into the trap of simply presenting a series of talking heads, instead using a variety of visual techniques - including archival footage, graphics, and animation - to help break up the interviews and present complex ideas in a more digestible format. Additionally, the film's pacing is brisk and engaging, ensuring that the viewer's attention never wavers.

While the movie is squarely focused on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, its themes and insights are relevant to a much broader audience. Indeed, What If? offers a sobering reminder of the high stakes of international diplomacy and the challenges of achieving peace in the face of deeply entrenched conflicts. It is also a testament to the importance of leadership and statesmanship, and the often immense personal sacrifices that are required to make progress towards peace.

Overall, What If? Ehud Barak on War and Peace is a must-watch for anyone interested in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or international diplomacy more broadly. It is a thought-provoking, engaging, and informative movie that succeeds in shedding light on the complexities of one of the world's most intractable problems. Whether you are a scholar of Middle Eastern politics, a casual viewer looking to learn more about the region, or simply someone interested in the challenges of achieving peace in a world wracked by conflict, What If? is a movie that you won't want to miss.

What If? Ehud Barak on War and Peace is a 2023 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes.