Sabra and Shatila: What Happened And Why It Matters

The story of Sabra and Shatila is a horrifying one. A paramilitary Lebanese group massacres between 800 and 2,000 refugees, many in horrifying ways. And oddly…Israel is blamed for this awful, awful crime? This episode breaks down the confusing and upsetting story of Sabra and Shatila, and in doing so, asks, how does a nation deal with power and responsibility?

Big Ideas

1. Israel, like other countries, has had to confront difficult moments in its history.
2. Israel was the only party to investigate its own responsibility in the Sabra and Shatila massacre.
3. Leadership is being willing to investigate your own possible wrongdoings and learn from your mistakes.

Essential Questions

1. Was Israel responsible for the massacre at Sabra and Shatila?
2. How might a country show willingness to confront difficult moments in its history?
3. Should a country be held responsible for its indirect actions?