The diplomacy of spectacle: Abie Nathan and the limits of Israeli peace activism, 1966–1993

This article examines the effects peace-making efforts of Israeli aviator, restaurateur and peace activist Abie Nathan to promote in Middle East between 1960s 1990s had on public. Among other initiatives, flew illegally from Israel Egypt start diplomatic negotiations 1966 established offshore radio station “Voice Peace” (1973–93) which broadcast English international waters Eastern Mediterranean. His globe-trotting activism humanitarian turned him into an figure fascination abroad. Departing treatments that dismiss Nathan’s political relevance, this uses concept “nation branding” argue choices as both defined defied limits activism: one hand, spectacle helped Israelis imagine themselves a peace-pursuing people, without actually mobilizing them action. On repeatedly tried push his compatriots recognize legitimate claims Palestinian putting at odds with authorities.