Ep 15. Ultra Zionists

In the season 1 episode 15 of Louis Theroux's documentary series, titled "Ultra Zionists," Theroux explores the lives and beliefs of Jewish settlers in the West Bank, a disputed territory in Palestine. The episode follows Theroux as he travels to the West Bank to interview members of the settler community and gain a deeper understanding of their motivation for living in such a contentious area.

Throughout the episode, Theroux meets with several settlers who have moved to the West Bank because they believe that God has given them the land and that the Jewish people have a divine right to live there. These individuals view the West Bank as the biblical heartland of Israel and see the establishment of settlements in the area as essential to the survival of the Jewish people.

While some settlers simply want to live in the area peacefully, others have been involved in clashes with Palestinian residents and Israeli military forces. Theroux witnesses several incidents of violence and tension during his time in the region, including clashes between settlers and Palestinian rock throwers.

In addition to interviewing settlers, Theroux also speaks with Palestinians living in nearby towns and cities. He hears their perspective on the settlement issue and learns about the challenges they face as a result of the settlement movement, including restricted access to water, healthcare, and education.

Throughout the episode, Theroux takes a nuanced approach to the subject matter, highlighting the complex and sometimes contradictory feelings held by different individuals on both sides of the conflict. He also provides historical context for the settlement movement, tracing the origins of the conflict back to British colonialism in the early 1900s.

Overall, "Ultra Zionists" offers a compelling look at a controversial subject, providing viewers with insight into the motivations and beliefs of Jewish settlers in the West Bank and the impact of their actions on the surrounding Palestinian population. The episode serves as a reminder that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a multifaceted issue with no easy answers, and that understanding the perspectives of all involved is crucial to finding a path towards peace.