“State of Rage,” a poignant documentary by Marcel Mettelsiefen, delves into the psychological realities of life in the West Bank amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While recent military actions in Lebanon and Gaza overshadow events in the West Bank, this film brings to light the stark contrasts in perspectives from both sides of the divide, focusing on two households: one in Jenin, Palestine, and another in Havat Gilad, an Israeli settlement.
The film introduces us to two sets of sisters, Jana and Heba, both 10 years old, living in Jenin. When asked about their definition of peace, Jana expresses hope for a future without military presence in their camp, wishing simply to enjoy her childhood. Yet, the reality of their situation is harsh; Jana’s father, Haitham, struggles to salvage items from their crushed car, destroyed by an Israeli bulldozer.
In stark contrast, Renana, 16, and Naomi, 14, of Havat Gilad, represent a different reality. Their conversation is infused with aggressive nationalism, as Naomi openly expresses her desire to “destroy Gaza.” Their mother, Yael, reflects on the mindset of the younger generation, emphasizing their belief in their moral superiority over Palestinians.
The documentary captures a moment of chilling innocence when Jana and Heba explore the aftermath of a missile strike, with Jana asserting that every child should resist occupation. This tragic juxtaposition highlights how both groups are shaped by their circumstances. The girls from Havat Gilad, while seemingly safer, are not untouched by grief; their father was killed in a shooting near Nablus in 2018.
Mettelsiefen’s choice to spotlight these particular Israeli voices challenges the viewer to reconsider narratives around the conflict. While the settler community often draws criticism, the film’s focus on children grappling with loss adds depth to the understanding of their experiences. Renana’s radicalization and her mother’s struggle with her daughters’ aggressive attitudes reflect the complexities of identity and trauma in this protracted conflict.
Yael’s closing remarks underscore the film’s somber message: “The tragedy is that right now, we are marking everyone as the enemy.” As she grapples with her family’s pain and the broader implications of their actions, “State of Rage” leaves viewers questioning the future of a nation caught in a cycle of violence and hatred, emphasizing the urgent need for introspection and understanding among all involved.
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