Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley presents an interfaith course, “Middle East Update: What is Happening Now and Why in Israel?” 10-11 a.m. Mondays, Oct. 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 12202 N. 101st Ave.

The existential conflict in Iran and its proxies against Israel is the focus of this four-part adult education course led by Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan.

“The State of Israel is facing an extremely serious security threat from terrorist groups based in Gaza, the West Bank, South Lebanon, Syria and Yemen — all of them supported by Iran. While this situation is extremely serious, it is also fascinating and will provide us with a great deal of information to discuss, analyze and debate,” Kaplan said.

During the course, Kaplan will discuss what is happening right now in Israel politically and militarily. By the time this course starts, events may have changed just as they may change during the four weeks of the course.

“We will see what happens in real time as we meet together to discuss the continuing tumultuous events,” Kaplan said. “We will look at the geo-strategic situation in the broader Middle East and particularly Iran’s long term intention to destroy the State of Israel and become the dominant Islamic power in the world.” 

Kaplan has been traveling annually to Israel the last three years — recently returning in late July — where he had earlier studied for this rabbinic ordination as well as for his PhD in history.

Deadline for registration and to pay the fee is noon Oct. 1 by contacting the TBS office at 623-977-3240 (the office will be closed at noon Oct. 2-5 for Rosh Hashanah Holy Days).

Cost for the series is $20 for members and $35 for non-members. 

Temple Beth Shalom has coupon books for its adult education courses that can be used for any four courses through June 2025. Cost is $65 for TBS members and $120 for non-members. Coupon books are available at the Temple office.

Visit tbsaz.org for more information.