The Syrian Arab Republic, with its ancient civilization and rich mosaic of cultures, stands as a symbol of endurance. Through decades of turmoil, Syria has remained defined not just by its struggles, but by the unbreakable spirit of its people. War, displacement, and the destruction of entire cities have tested the nation to its core - but the Syrian people have not yielded.

Now, as the dust of authoritarianism begins to settle, Syria faces a defining moment. The future of the country lies not in the hands of fragmented groups or foreign interests, but in the unity of Syrians themselves. To move forward, the people must come together as one nation with a shared vision - one rooted in peace, justice, and mutual respect. Sectarianism and political division have long fractured Syria; the time has come to heal. 

The roots of this transformation trace back to 2011, when Syrians took to the streets in peaceful protest, calling for reform, freedom, and an end to decades of oppression. Their demands were clear: justice, jobs, and an economy that served everyone - not just the elite. These nonviolent demonstrators, however, were met with a brutal crackdown. Mass detentions, torture, chemical attacks, and siege warfare followed, leaving more than 500,000 dead and over 13 million displaced. A generation came of age amid the horrors of war, trauma, and fear.

But even in the darkest times, a different kind of resistance was quietly taking root. During the height of the conflict, a group of dedicated local activists came together with a shared belief in nonviolence. From this vision, Sullam was born - an organization devoted to promoting a culture of peace and social justice in Syria.

Sullam: Building a Nonviolent Future for Syria 

In a country long marked by conflict, repression, and authoritarianism, the emergence of nonviolent resistance is not only a bold act–it is a revolutionary one. Sullam, a newly founded Syrian organization, is doing just that: promoting a culture of nonviolence, civic education, and social justice as the foundation for a democratic Syria. 

A Mission Rooted in Action and Education

Sullam’s short-term goals for its first year are both ambitious and strategic. The organization aims to train 300 individuals across Syria in nonviolence–empowering a new wave of young activists with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation to resist oppression without resorting to violence. 

In addition to training, Sullams is undertaking four theoretical research projects, exploring the intersection of nonviolence with: 

• Gender and nonviolent action 
• Media and messaging 
• Education and civic transformation 
• Nonviolence theory in the Syrian context

Through this research, Sullam hopes to enrich its methodology and produce context-specific strategies that reflect Syria’s diverse realities. 

Furthermore, Sullam plans to produce 150 educational materials, including articles, podcasts, posters, and other media tools, to spread awareness and deepen public understanding of nonviolence resistance. 

From Personal Conviction to National Movement

Ibrahim Alfawal, a project coordinator in Sullam studied nonviolence in Beirut. Moved by the power of words and peaceful resistance, he is determined to plant these ideas in Syrian soil “I wanted to tell the new Syria that words are more powerful than weapons” he says. “There are many alternatives to violent struggles” 

Co-founder Ribal Al-Ali from Jableh in the Latakia Governorate, had long dreamed of bringing nonviolence to Syria. Through Sullam, that dream became a reality. He has led numerous trainings in his hometown, encouraging youth to adopt peaceful activism in a society historically shaped by force and violence. 

Sullam’s presence is especially powerful given Syria’s deeply entrenched legacy of authoritarianism and state violence. “It's inspiring to see nonviolence take root in a country where violence was instilled into the very fabric of society” says Ibrahim. “Sullam exists to challenge and transform that belief–to prove that Syrians are fully capable of building their own future without bloodshed”. 

Bottom-Up Democracy and People Power

At the heart of Sullam’s mission is the belief in the power of ordinary people to create change. The organization promotes a bottom-up model of democracy, grounded in community resilience and awareness. “We must build a democratic culture that can withstand any future dictatorship,” Ibrahim states. “This starts with education and a strong sense of alertness in the nonviolent community.”

Sullam’s training includes civic rights, legal awareness, and strategies for peaceful resistance–tools that prepare Syrians to defend themselves against future authoritarian attempts. By building a nonviolent culture from the grassroots, Sullam is investing in Syria’s long-term democratic health.

Tackling Sectarianism Through Shared Humanity

One of Sullam’s key goals is to address sectarianism. The organization acknowledges Syria’s religious, ethnic, and ideological diversity but emphasizes that unity can emerge from understanding, not conformity.

“What binds us is far greater than what divides us,” says one trainer. Sullam runs identity-focused workshops, helping participants explore their own backgrounds, challenge prejudices, and accept difference as a strength, not a threat. In fact, Sullam sees this diversity as an asset, enriching the mission of nonviolence through multiple perspectives and cultural lenses.

Challenges and Hope

Sullam is under no illusion about the difficulties ahead. Syria has inherited a deeply rooted culture of violence—one that won’t be undone overnight. Changing mindsets, especially in a society transitioning from authoritarian rule, is one of the organization’s most significant challenges.

“Many participants are surprised by the idea of nonviolence,” notes Ibrahim. “It’s unfamiliar, even counterintuitive to some. But through our workshops, dialogues, and educational campaigns, we’re showing people there’s another way.”

In a volatile environment where governance is still evolving and violence remains a threat, nonviolence training becomes not just idealistic, but essential. As Syria moves forward, vulnerable to internal instability and external pressures, organizations like Sullam provide a much-needed moral and strategic compass.

Through research, education, and courageous grassroots work, Sullam is planting the seeds of a peaceful revolution - one conversation, one workshop, and one act of courage at a time.

Please consider donating to this project here.
To learn more about past trainings, read here. To follow up on their work and learn more, visit their facebook and instagram pages.

Here is an article by NVI Co-Founder Jonathan Kuttab on the recent Israeli War on Iran.

With all the attention on Iran and Israel and the real fears of devastating wars, the situation in Palestine deteriorates with forced marches, humiliation, bombings, and deliberate starvation. The diabolical scheme of “food distribution centers-cum death traps” are the main if not only way Gazans can get food, yielding around 70 deaths among the food seekers at the distribution centers every single day. On the West Bank, assaults by settlers and land grabs accelerate as the Palestinians hunker down in fear for their lives   And regardless of the outcome of the Israeli-Iran war, the situation in Palestine still needs to be addressed.  We cannot let the War on Iran be a distraction by Prime Minister Netanyahu from the situation in Gaza and from having him face the really serious questions that are threatening his coalition and his own hold on power.

None the less, it is incumbent on us to address the Iran war, particularly since the US is on the verge of some drastic steps leading to a major escalation.  In this regard we need to point out  a few things particularly as Americans consider this Iran situation:

1. The attack by Israel on Iran is an act of aggression and a direct violation of its sovereignty and of international law.  Starting a war illegally is known as the crime of aggression, and it is one of the worst crimes under international law as it leads to untold suffering and destruction and invites retaliation and revenge.  It is never allowed under international law except  as an act of self defense.
2. “Pre-emptive self defense” which was claimed by Israel clearly does not apply in this case, and would render the whole of international law meaningless if it were to be accepted.  Self defense applies to defending against actual not anticipated threats.  Also , Preemptive action, if it is considered at all,  can only be arguably claimed if there was an imminent prospect of an attack by another country which could not be forestalled by any other means.  It does not mean that a country can “preemptively” attack an enemy on the theoretical possibility that that enemy may  consider attacking it in the future, or to deprive the enemy of having weapons that are potentially harmful.  Israel has actually already attacked and destroyed the navy and  airforce of Syria and other military installations, and invaded its territory and set up its own military bases further inside Syrian territory  without even claiming that the new Syrian regime was about to attack it, but only in order to ensure that any future regime in Syria would not have the ability to attack ( or defend?) against Israel’s military.  Regime change for hostile enemies is also not a legitimate war objective. 
3. Preventing other countries from obtaining nuclear weapons is definitely a worthy objective.  That is why the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty was created.  Israel never signed it, while Iran not only signed but accepted the most rigorous inspection regime, and was in the process of negotiating even more restrictions to its enrichment ( one element in a nuclear weapons program) when Israel attacked it.  Tulsi Gabbard, National Security Advisor recently issued a statement that the CIA believes Iran is "NOT building a nuclear bomb," and that the decision not to do so by Khamenei has not been changed.
4. Most analysts , including Israeli ones, agree that the objectives of Israel were to safeguard its own nuclear monopoly and aspiring hegemony, and prevent the deterrence that comes from Mutual Assured Destruction ( appropriately called MAD) rather than to forestall any existential threat.  All the bluster about Iran posing an "existential threat” and that Iran should never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon hides the fact that such a weapon, were Iran ever to develop it, would be meant primarily as a deterrent and not intended in any way to attack or obliterate Israel as Netanyahu would have us believe. 
5. The United States has no legitimate reason to attack or to harm Iran. The US is still engaging in a foreign policy of revenge for the fall of the Shah and the taking of US hostages 46 years ago.  US sanctions must end. The US policy of regime change because Iran is a theocracy and violates human rights means that Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and all other countries in the region should also be targets. In fact, Iran and the US have many similar national interests in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.  Israel is a dominant military power and does not need nor deserve US military support to protect it from its enemies. Every US President,for all their unquestioning support of Israel, has resisted constant Israeli pleas for the U S to attack Iran.  It is certainly not in America’s interest to do so.  Joining the fight against Iran only benefits Israel at the expense of American interests.   
6. Whatever the arguments for Israel to attack Iran or seek to weaken it, we need to say that war is never a good option.  It is an evil thing that must be avoided at all costs.  Even those who are not pacifist and who believe in a “just war theory” must admit that the criteria and conditions for a just war do not exist here, and that all diplomatic efforts must be exhausted first, and even then, war needs to be purely defensive and the lesser of two evils.  A lot of lies will need to be promulgated ( as in the Iraq war) to justify a US attack on Iran.  The recent forays of America in the area, from Afghanistan to Iraq and Libya should have taught us this lesson. 
7. We cannot support war in any case regardless of which side is right or wrong. We must particularly resist the temptation to be sucked into supporting or glorifying the attacks and the destruction by either side.  We grieve over every life lost, and over the trillions that are being spent on weapons which we hope will never be used, and which are now being daily used.   Weapons, war and violence will never buy us long-term security. Resources should be employed to improve the lives of many, battle poverty, homelessness, mental health issues, climate change and health and education rather than being squandered on the military.   

In the meantime, the horrors of Gaza continue, and the genocide is ongoing, and God’s children are being starved and slaughtered.  I hope you will consider joining me and over 700 others who are fasting with Veterans for Peace and their allies in fasting for Gaza and calling on the US government to make peace, not war with Palestinians and with Iran. 

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Some notes from Michael Beer, NVI's Co-Director

Nuclear weapons cannot be used to achieve military goals any more than biological weapons can. They simply will poison everyone and likely lead to global nuclear exchange. For example, Iran could never use nuclear weapons on Israel because in addition to killing 7.5 million Jews it would kill 7 million Muslims, destroy 2 of the holiest sites in Islam, and contaminate the region full of millions of Shiites and possibly Iran itself with lethal radiation!

Language Matters: When Israel compares Hamas to the nation of Amalek and Iran uses "Death to Israel and America" this violent language is unacceptable and promotes mutual hatred and mistrust. They all need training in nonviolent communication!

The best way forward to save humanity from massive suffering and extermination is to strengthen global democratic governance under the rule of law as well as a commitment to nonviolent approaches and action. This means reformed global governance, adherence to all international treaties such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons, a strengthen World Court of Justice, a nuclear free middle east and planet, and the abolition of armies and many weapons such as killer robots. Nonviolent action  by religions, businesses, trade unions, civic and cultural groups, universities and local governments are essential to challenge our current suicidal direction and make these changes.

NVI has long supported the Humanitarian Disarmament Movement whose various actors have won the Nobel Peace Prize. We need to ban or limit weapons and war because they cause immeasurable human suffering. This is where nonviolent people power is needed to challenge the military-spy-industrial complex around the world. You can see some of this in the work of NVI's Isaiah Project in which hundreds of citizens have engaged in direct action against nuclear weapons. You can also see this in our fiscally sponsoring Control Arms and the International Action Network on Small Arms.

The Righteous Jews

by Jonathan Kuttab

One thing that gives me hope in these terrible times is thinking about Righteous Jews: 

After the Holocaust, Jews recognized the courage and sacrifice of the very few gentiles who risked much to help Jews escape from the Nazi monsters who were rounding them up and shipping them off to concentration camps. These persons came to be known as the “Righteous Gentiles.” I, too, want to recognize Jewish individuals and organizations who are willing, often at great personal risk, to stand against the ongoing genocide, save Palestinian lives, and put an end to the atrocities perpetuated against them. This description includes organizations like Jewish Voice for Peace, If Not Now, and Rabbis for Human Rights in the US, and those like Breaking the Silence, the Israeli Committee against House Demolitions, Rabbis for Human Rights, and others in the Middle East. Individuals are even more impressive. These include Israelis who refuse to serve in the Israeli Army, who risk arrest and vilifications as they try to bring food into Gaza or defend Palestinian communities in the West Bank from settler violence. The term also refers to US Jews who are leading protests and direct actions, calling for an end to the genocide and an embargo on arms to Israel. Some are religious Jews, like Peter Beinart or Rabbis Brant Rosen and Lynn Gottlieb. Others, like Jeff Halper and Amira Hass, are secular. They often take these positions, not despite being Jewish, but precisely because they are Jewish and are acting on their deepest convictions. They view the ongoing policies of the State of Israel and its barbaric actions as a betrayal and violation of Jewish values and ethics.

The list includes many Jews, most of whom are unknown, who have overcome much indoctrination and popular opinion within their communities to arrive at the conclusion that the State of Israel, the Zionist movement, and the organized Jewish community leadership do not speak for them or in their name. They have individually determined that they must stand up, distinguish themselves, and do all they can to put an end to the ongoing genocide. They see Palestinians as equal human beings, finding their own liberation as being tied with the liberation of the Palestinian people.

In this country, such Righteous Jews are usually at the very forefront of demonstrations, sit-ins, and nonviolent protests calling for a ceasefire and an arms embargo on Israel. They reject the demonization of Palestinians, especially all in Gaza, insisting on universal standards to be applied to all. They include Jewish students at Harvard, who bravely confronted their own administration, risking decertification or even losing their diplomas and graduation. They insist, NOT IN OUR NAME, giving lie to the Zionist claim that Zionism and the State of Israel speaks for all Jews or that the Jewish Community is somehow endangered by calls for a ceasefire or for Palestinian rights.

Their position is made harder because there exists real anti-Jewish bigotry in this country, as well as a powerful campaign to paint all anti-Israeli and anti-Zionist actions as being antisemitic. They are often labelled “self-hating Jews” and accused of being traitors or at best naive fools.

These Jewish individuals often face serious risks and even ostracism from their friends and families who see them as traitors endangering the collective security of Jews. They remember how Justice Goldstone, the South African judge who authored the Goldstone report about Israeli atrocities in Gaza in 2009, was ostracized by his family and denied the ability to see his grandchildren until he recanted and withdrew his signature from his UN report on Gaza. Among my own Jewish acquaintances, every single one who has taken a moral position on Palestine has reported tensions and even an outright break in relationships with family members. Israelis who refuse to serve in Gaza are actually imprisoned for their refusal. I stand in awe of their courage and proudly claim them as allies and friends.  

To be considered a “Righteous Jew,” it is not enough to call for a ceasefire or to decry Netanyahu’s policies. Many of the Israeli protesters, for example, are only concerned with the Israeli hostages, and they openly say that they call for a ceasefire deal only to continue the genocide once they get their  hostages back. Others have no problem demonizing Hamas or calling for its destruction, but only want to limit Israeli casualties or to replace Netanyahu with a more subtle and tolerable Israeli leader. Most US Jews I know feel uncomfortable with Israeli policies but refuse to call this policy genocidal, or to call for an arms embargo, but instead they withdraw into silence rather than actively opposing such policies. As such, the established leadership of the Jewish community is left in firm control, supporting Israel and claiming to speak for all Jews.

Righteous Jews not only reaffirm my faith in humanity, but also my hope for a better future for both Palestinians and Israelis. While many despair of such a future, insisting that after both October 7 and the Gaza Genocide Jews and Arabs cannot live together as neighbors and fellow-citizens, I still believe otherwise. Even in the midst of this horrible genocide, I maintain hope for a better future and for genuine coexistence in dignity and equality between Palestinian Arabs and Israeli Jews in a new pluralistic, peaceful, and free Palestine.

To learn more about the great work that NVI's Jewish Partners are doing, check out Center for Jewish Nonviolence and Villages Group. 

You can also follow CJNV on Instagram @cjnvgram 

Jonathan Kuttab's "The Righteous Jews"

Jonathan Kuttab’s piece, The Righteous Jews, honors those who act on conscience, not in spite of their identity, but because of it. Read this moving tribute to those standing up against genocide and for justice in Palestine here 

To learn more about the great work that NVI's Jewish Partners are doing, check out Center for Jewish Nonviolence and Villages Group. 

You can also follow CJNV on Instagram @cjnvgram 

"The Future of Nonviolence in Palestine/Israel" with Sami Awad

On Friday, Nonviolence International hosted an insightful and powerful talk titled The Future of Nonviolence in Palestine/Israel at St John’s Episcopal Church. This event featured Sami Awad, a prominent advocate for peace and nonviolence, as he shared an in-depth update on the worsening violence and shifting dynamics in the West Bank.

He highlighted the escalating tensions and violence in the region, offering a vision for a peaceful resolution that involves a surge of international tourism and unarmed civilian protection teams. Awad argued that these collective efforts could help alleviate the suffering in Palestine while fostering a sense of solidarity. In the case of Gaza, Awad called for international monitoring to help sustain ceasefires and ensure lasting peace.

The event sparked a vital conversation about the role of global communities in supporting nonviolent initiatives and contributing to long-term peacebuilding efforts in the region. It was an inspiring call to action for all those who believe in a future of peace, justice, and nonviolent solutions

Click below to view a recording of the event! 

The Future of Nonviolence in Palestine/Israel

https://youtu.be/VTG6GZBq_TI?si=hfoFH5j2bGz8SvkC

Apartheid in Palestine and Israel is intensifying. Nonviolent mobilization is needed now more than ever.

An update on the Arrest Warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu 

The ongoing war on Gaza has seen unprecedented levels of destruction and human suffering, drawing global condemnation and calls for accountability. In a major development, an international arrest warrant has been issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes and violations of international law. This pivotal moment could mark a turning point in the struggle for justice and peace in Palestine.

The Arrest Warrant: A Step Toward Accountability

The arrest warrant signals a significant step by the international community toward holding leaders accountable for actions that may constitute war crimes. Netanyahu’s leadership has been marked by policies and military actions in Gaza that many human rights organizations have decried as disproportionate and in violation of international law. This warrant is a testament to the growing demand for justice for the Palestinian people, particularly in light of the devastating consequences of the recent escalation.

This is a defining moment for the global movement for Palestinian rights. We urge supporters of justice and peace to:

• Contact Your Representatives: Demand that your government supports international accountability mechanisms and presses for an end to the war in Gaza.

• Raise Awareness: Share information about the arrest warrant and its implications on social media, and encourage others to take a stand.

• Support Humanitarian Efforts: Donate to organizations providing critical aid to the people of Gaza.
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Nonviolence International stands in solidarity with the people of Gaza and calls for immediate international action to end the violence and ensure accountability. Together, we can work toward a future where justice and peace prevail.

The apartheid system in Palestine and Israel has reached new levels of repression. Palestinian communities are facing severe and unrelenting challenges—from the ongoing expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank, which force families from their homes and strip them of their land, to the genocidal attacks in Gaza, where civilians suffer devastating loss and relentless violence. These escalating atrocities make it clear that the time to act is now.

In the face of these threats, our Palestinian partners and allies are undeterred. They continue to resist through bold, creative, and steadfast nonviolent action, holding onto hope for justice despite immense obstacles. Join them—and us—in resisting occupation and apartheid. Here’s how you can make a difference:

Action Items

1. Demand accountability and action for Palestine in the US:
   • Reach congress and other public figures with USCPR Action Alerts.
   • Reject AIPAC! Sign on to show our political leaders, community leaders, and the public that American Jews and allies believe AIPAC has no place in our communities or in our politics. You do not have to identify as Jewish to sign.
2. Support NVI’s fiscally sponsored partners 
   • The US Advisory Committee for the Hebron International Resource Network rebuilds wells, playgrounds, schools, homes in areas threatened by land confiscation.
   • Holy Land Trust mobilizes Palestinians, Israelis and foreigners to work together for a future based on equality. They re-build homes, engage in dialogue, and challenge the fear of the other.  
   • The US Boat To Gaza supports the global flotilla to challenge the blockade of Gaza this summer. . 
   • We Are Not Numbers continues to humanize Gazan Palestinians with its youth-led media training program.  
   • The Center for Jewish Nonviolence engages in direct action and co-resistance in support of Palestinians struggling for dignity and equal rights.
3. Engage with Palestinian leaders of NVI  
   • Read and share Jonathan Kuttab’s inspiring free book Beyond the Two-State Solution.
   • Invite Palestinians to speak to your congregation or group. See our Speaker's Bureau. 
   • join our campaign Every Life A Universe
4. Get involved in a movement or organization working for justice in Palestine–please reach out if we can help guide or connect you. Here are some of the many movements and organizations we admire:
   • Palestine Action (UK)
   • Na'amod (UK)
   • Sabeel (Palestine and global affiliates)
   • Just Peace Advocates (CA)
   • Independent Jewish Voice (CA)
   • American Muslims for Palestine (USA)
   • Palestinian Youth Movement (USA)
   • US Campaign for Palestinian Rights (USA)
   • Rebuilding Alliance (USA)
   • Adalah Justice Project (USA)
   • Within Our Lifetime (USA)
   • IfNotNow Movement (USA)
   • Jewish Voice for Peace (USA)
   • Community Peacemaker Teams (USA)
   • Eyewitness Palestine (USA)
5. Commit to changing the conversation towards a realistic solution. Israel’s new extreme government puts to rest any lingering debate about the viability of the Two-State Solution.
   • Sign this statement.

Follow these social media accounts:

https://www.instagram.com/youthofsumud/

https://www.instagram.com/ali_awad98/

https://www.instagram.com/basilaladraa/

https://www.instagram.com/samihuraini/

https://twitter.com/YouthOfSumud

https://twitter.com/SoHebronWatch

https://twitter.com/masaferyatta

https://twitter.com/Cjnvtweets

https://twitter.com/holylandtrust

#SaveMasaferYatta 

#DefendMasaferYatta

Background Information

For those wanting to learn more about the Palestinian struggle for freedom, please see these NVI resources below. Below the NVI resources are primers welcoming people who are not yet immersed in the conversation. 

Jonathan Kuttab's Book - Beyond the Two-State Solution

David Hart's invitation to Jewish Americans

Normalization and Co-Resistance, Jonathan Kuttab

Safety Isn’t Demolishing a School, Tess Greenwood

The Many Faces of Nonviolence - A Taste of Palestine

Gaza: Cruelty Without Consequences

Important Update: Nonviolence International Stands in Solidarity with Al-Haq

Raising Up Impressive Group Challenging GBV in Palestine

Music is the Healing Force of the Universe!

Our Partner's Powerful Piece in the Forward.

The Many Faces of Nonviolence - Rachel Corrie

Expand our Compassion to Include Palestinians

The Many Faces of Nonviolence - Ann Wright

NVI Videos

The Future of Nonviolence in Palestine/Israel

Beyond The Two-State Solution, by Jonathan Kuttab. Interactive webinar.

Co-Resistance and Solidarity with Palestine - Webinar

Writer from Gaza Reflects on the Two State Solution

Spotlight on Nonviolence - Huwaida Arraf

A Video Featuring Ahmed Alnaouq, founder of WANN

A Jew Asks Questions of Two Palestinians in a Time of War

Holy Land Trust's Founder Sami Awad's Wonderful Take on Active Nonviolence - Webinar

Courage Along The Divide - Produced and Directed by Victor Schonfeld 1986

Resources from Other Groups

The Popular University of the Palestinian Youth Movement Presents - OUR HISTORY OF POPULAR RESISTANCE: PALESTINE READING LIST

Palestine 101

Palestine-Israel Primer - MERIP

Institute for Middle East Understanding (IMEU)

Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territories

A Threshold Crossed: Israeli Authorities and the Crimes of Apartheid and Persecution | HRW

Not a "vibrant democracy". This is apartheid. | B'Tselem

Visualizing Apartheid through interactive maps | B'Tselem

For those interested in learning more about state by state US legislation, please see this impressive map from Palestine Legal. They tell us, "The right to stand for justice is under attack. Politicians are pushing unconstitutional laws to stop the movement for Palestinian freedom and shield Israel from criticism."

Your Guide to Difficult Conversations About Israel/Palestine

Israel-Palestine animated introduction

Primer on the Arab-Israeli Conflict - TeachMideast

The Israel Apartheid Report Database 

Do you have suggestions for other high quality introductory material we should consider including?

If so, please contact us. 

And, of course, please help spread the word. Ask people to visit this page, learn, and take action. 

(Art Credit - Kayla Ginsburg - from CJNV)

The brutal occupation of Palestine is likely to get even more repressive. The coalition government in Israel includes unrepentant haters and racists. They have wasted no time showing their true colors. The impacts will be immediate, widespread, and as usual those harmed the most will be Palestinians. 

People who have been paying attention know that the occupation has been supported by successive governments of all parties. And still we recognize we are entering a new and dangerous moment. We will work to make sure that this is also a time with the potential for real and lasting positive change. 

During this time, we will see suffering increase and we must urge people to open their eyes to the reality of the situation. We must find ways to make the power of active nonviolence relevant to this struggle. NVI co-founder Jonathan Kuttab wrote, 

"Successive Israeli governments have pursued these goals steadfastly, while pretending that their aim was security and that their aspirations were for peace with Palestinians, not domination over them. The new Israeli government abandons all such pretense, rips off the mask, and dares the world to do something about it.

Acknowledging that reality is the first necessary step towards addressing it. When Israel determined it wanted to be a Jewish state, and further that it wanted to keep all the land of historic Palestine, the results were inevitable. The only two options Israel allows for are ethnic cleansing or apartheid. Calls for democracy and equality (where democracy includes giving Palestinians [50% of the population] the vote and a stake in running the country) are totally rejected.

The good news is that with this new government, the mask is off, and many people can see the reality. This includes a majority of the Jewish people in the United states and their supporters, who have always been liberal, democratic, and in favor of progressive values. Facing the reality of Israel may be painful for many of them, but it is an important first step towards seeking a new solution based on equality and human dignity, and which would also bring healing and peace."

Tallie Ben-Daniel, the managing director of Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP), said the new Israeli government has openly embraced apartheid.

“The horrifying actions of this new government, only five days in, prove exactly what Palestinians have been saying all along: Israel is an apartheid state, where Palestinians are treated as inferior. The dangerous escalations by the new Israeli government make clear that now is the time for action.”

US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib wrote, 

“Not even one week into 2023, the new far-right apartheid government is moving to ethnically cleanse entire communities—which would displace more than 1,000 Palestinian residents, including 500 children. All with American backing, bulldozers, and bullets. #SaveMasaferYatta”