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Fauda is a thrilling Israeli action-drama television series created by Lior Raz and Avi Issacharoff. The show was first premiered in 2015 and has become a sensation among worldwide audiences since then. The storyline follows the life of an elite team of Israeli undercover agents, who are set out to hunt down one of the most notorious terrorists of Hamas.

The show mainly revolves around Doron Kavillio (played by Lior Raz), a retired commander of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) who returns to active service after learning about the return of his arch-nemesis, the terrorist Taufiq Hammad (played by Hisham Suliman), whom he had previously thought to be dead. The series is named after the Arabic word "Fauda," which means havoc, chaos, or turmoil. This name aptly describes the nature of the show and the fast-paced, action-packed story encompasses it.

The show's first season is set in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and the storyline showcases the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with both sides shown in a humanized manner. The show highlights the complicated and sensitive details of the ongoing conflict, highlighting the perspective of both the Israelis and the Palestinian civilians who have to undertake harassment, from either IDF or Hamas.

The show's characters display their inner turmoil and complexity very well. Doron, for example, is a talented army commando with a burning desire for revenge. His actions are ruthless, and his methods are unconventional, but ultimately, he is fighting for the safety of his country and his family. Similarly, the Hamas terrorists are shown to have families and friends with whom they care deeply about, which makes it difficult for them to undertake violent practices in their quest for independence. The show's creators Raz and Issacharoff wanted to create a balanced portrayal of the ongoing tension and complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which they have achieved excellently.

The show's cinematography and visual effects are top-notch, bringing to life the stunning beauty of the West Bank, while also revealing the grittiness of the urban environment. The action sequences are well choreographed and thrilling, and the use of handheld cameras and quick cuts reminds audiences of the real battle-like situations. The soundtrack is also impressive, with the music complementing the action on-screen accurately.

Aside from the political and military aspect of Fauda, the show also explores the relationships between the team members and their personal lives. Each squad member has their own past and a family to care for, which raises the stakes of their dangerous missions. Relationships are challenged when trust is broken, and loyalties are questioned as characters are forced to choose between personal relationships and duty. This creates an added layer of human connection amidst the non-stop action and suspense.

Fauda has received numerous accolades since its premiere. The show has put Israeli television on the world stage, with Netflix announcing that it is one of its most-viewed foreign-language series. Fauda has also won Best Drama Series at the Israeli Academy Awards and Best International Drama at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival. The series has also been praised for its boldness and authenticity, with many Palestinians and Israelis commenting on the show for portraying both sides candidly.

Fauda is an action-packed political thriller that has set the benchmark of quality Israeli television. The show explores human emotions and complicated relationships amidst unprecedented danger and conflict while highlighting the volatile Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Fauda has achieved critical acclaim and a massive, dedicated fan base worldwide, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves action and drama.

Fauda is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (48 episodes). The series first aired on February 15, 2015.