Films explore clash in the Middle East
Web Posted: 04/13/2005 12:00 AM CDT

Jessica Belasco
San Antonio Express-News

In 2000, Pierre Rehov decided two things: that the global media couldn't be trusted to report the truth about conflict in the Middle East, and that he should do something about it. Five years later, Rehov has made six documentaries about the politics, culture and history of the region and is working on his seventh.

"He's one of the very few producers who have shown the realities of the Middle East," said Bobbie Ghitis, chairwoman of Congregation Rodfei Sholom's Israel Public Action Committee. "There are many myths surrounding the conflicts. We need to know the truth."

"The Silent Exodus" (2004) traces the displacement of a million Jewish people from Arab countries after the creation of Israel.

"The Hostages of Hatred" (2004) explores the more widely publicized plight of Palestinian refugees who have been living in camps in Jordan, Lebanon and Gaza since 1948. Rehov argues that Arab leaders and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, which administers care of the refugees, have perpetuated the Palestinians' refugee state to use them as pawns in the political battle against Israel.

-----------------------------------------------------------

jbelasco@express-news.net