Susan Abulhawa stepped into the Oxford Union and burned the colonial playbook to ash. No politeness, no whitewashing just raw, historical fact. If this made you uncomfortable, good it was supposed to.
A multicultural Israel
A multicultural Israel embracing Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as well as the smaller faith groups that each come from those (Baha’i faith as an example), could foster deeper coexistence, mutual respect, and shared heritage among the Abrahamic faiths. Given that all three religions trace their spiritual lineage to Abraham, a unified cultural space could have transformed the idea of Israel into a beacon of interfaith harmony rather than conflict.
Jerusalem, revered by all three faiths, could serve as a neutral spiritual hub, encouraging dialogue and collaboration rather than division. A multicultural approach could also strengthen each communities global standing, positioning them collectively as a model for religious tolerance and cooperation. Historically, periods of cultural exchange — such as in medieval Spain — led to advancements in philosophy, science, and the arts. A similar dynamic could enrich Israel’s intellectual and social landscape.
However, challenges remain. Political tensions, historical grievances, and differing religious laws complicate the vision of a fully integrated society. Some scholars argue that Israel’s multicultural condition is already strained by divisions between secular and religious Jews, as well as Jewish and Arab communities.
Balancing national identity with inclusivity would require careful governance, legal protections, and grassroots efforts to build trust.
