Conversations

"Why are you working with Arabs?"

• Because I believe we are destined to living together in this part of the world. Because through frequent encounters we can learn about one another and dispel some of the myths surrounding this conflict.

"But they don't want to live in peace with us. They are intent on destroying us."

• How do you know?
  

"What do you mean how do I know? Don't you listen to the news? Every day they shoot missiles at southern Israel."

• That's a few people who represent some armed factions or terrorist organizations, whatever you want to call them. What about the millions of ordinary people who aren't involved in such activities?

"They all support Hamas. They are not like us. They're all fanatics. Muslim extremists."

• How do you know? have you spoken to every Palestinian in Gaza and the West Bank?
  

"No, of course I haven't but I read the newspaper and watch the news. In fact I haven't met any Palestinians for many years."

• I know that since the erection of the security wall it has been difficult for West Bank Palestinians to enter Israel and for Israelis to enter the West Bank. But what about Faradis, the Arab village down the road, Don't you meet people there?
  

"I haven't been there since October 2000. When the 2nd intifada started, people from Faradis blocked the main road with burning tyres (tires) and threw stones at passing cars. I used to do my shopping in Faradis and go to restaurants there but I don't go there anymore. I'd rather give my business to Jews."

• So, because a handful of hotheads resorted to violence nearly 8 years ago, you're boycotting the whole community?

"They're all the same. You don't understand. You have spent too many years in England sheltered from this violent reality. I bet you will change your mind soon."

• But I meet and talk to Palestinians every week. They are a diverse people with many opinions. I meet educated middle class people and poor uneducated people. They seem genuine in their desire to live and let live. Just like you. Why don't you try going out there to see for yourself? It seems to me that you have created a stereotypical Arab in your mind based on sensationalist media reports.
  

"You are naive. You don't know what they say behind your back. I know them already. I don't need your airy fairy peace meetings. I need a strong army."