Hopeful Meeting between Israeli and Palestinian Professors is Followed by “Freedom Flotilla” Tragedy

Mavi Marmara, one of the ships in the "Freedom Flotilla." Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

A little more than a week after the visiting Israeli and Palestinian scholars returned to their homes, the Israeli Navy intercepted a flotilla of six cargo and passenger boats from Turkey. The convoy, called the “Freedom Flotilla” carried activists and supplies for the people of Gaza. Its purpose was to break a blockade imposed on Gaza by the Israelis. Although Israel has justified the blockade as needed to prevent weapons from entering Gaza, the blockade also has had the effect of isolating the Gaza economy. When the flotilla tried to defy the blockade, the encounter with the Israeli Navy left nine Turkish activists dead. This tragic event makes it all too apparent how urgently we need to find a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Every day of delay increases the risk of a further breakdown.

A few days ago, an article appeared in the Marblehead Reporter written by Nikki Gamer on the visit of the Palestinian and Israeli professors to Bentley University. I think it was a well written piece that conveyed the intent of the meeting. It can be found by clicking on the following link.

The week the Israeli and Palestinian professors spent together was an example of Pax Populi in action. It helped, I believe, to create a positive connection among the four professors on both sides of a conflict, all of whom share a deep desire for peace in their region. It is my hope that we will find more opportunities among ourselves and with other Israelis and Palestinians to work together to find a just and sustainable solution to this vitally important issue.