Alone with Israel: Bernard-Henri Lévy (France) in Conversation with Shifra Cornfeld

Born in 1948 in Algeria to a Jewish family and raised in France, philosopher, author, filmmaker, and public intellectual Bernard-Henri Lévy is one of the most prominent figures in contemporary European culture and political discourse.

Recently published in the United States, his latest book, Israel Alone, tackles the growing international isolation of Israel, and the events surrounding the October 7 attacks. Alongside personal testimony from his visit to Israel shortly after the events, Lévy analyzes the rise of global antisemitism and its influence on perceptions of Israel. Reflecting upon the international response to the attacks, he highlights how countries like Iran and Russia, as well as radical Islamist groups, have benefited from the crisis. Lévy also turns his gaze to broader issues such as Zionism, Israel’s identity as a Jewish state, and the calls for ceasefire without the release of the hostages. Israel Alone presents a philosophical and politically charged meditation on Israel’s standing within the international community and its struggle for legitimacy amid growing condemnation and global indifference.

In conversation with author Shifra Cornfeld, Lévy will discuss his new book, his global efforts to advocate for Israel, his visits to elite American campuses and encounters with Jewish student communities.

The event is held in collaboration with the French Institute.