I N T E R C O M M U N I T Y P E A C E & J U S T I C E C E N T E R

This issue: Seeking Peace in the Middle East No. 76 Fall 2007 Overview of Issues in the Middle East

Jeff Siddiqui turned them to the land of their the major problems of reparations Editorial Note: The author ancestors to achieve self-deter- for the dispossessed Palestinians, gratefully acknowledges the input mination, freedom and security; the division of assets and holy sites of Rabbi Anson Laytner and Ed but for Palestinians, Zionism has between and the new state Jeff Siddiqui is Mast for the section on Israel/Pal- meant the loss of the possibility of Palestine, or the crucial issue a Muslim civil of self-determination, freedom of water division between the two rights activist who and security. nations. Unsolved, each of these Turkey has written and issues ensures a future filled with spoken extensively more violence. on Islam, the Syria Another sub-text of the Iraq Iran Middle East, US estine. This Afghanistan “solution” is that the foreign policy and article is Jordan Golan Heights terrorism. He is the author’s Nepal associated with Israel Pakistan attempt to American Muslims Kuwait p r o v i d e a of Puget Sound. Bangladesh brief synopsis UAE Saudi Arabia of the complexity India of contemporary is- Oman sues and perspectives Millions of would re- on the Middle East. Christian and vert to Syria. Yemen Muslim Palestinians In such a case, Israel/Palestine are living as refugees all over the Golan water- The people of the world; hundreds of thousands shed will be lost, as the three Abrahamic of them were expelled at gunpoint will the only two vi- Golan Heights faiths have coexisted during the creation of Israel and in able aquifers, which and prospered togeth- the years that followed. Palestin- currently lie in the Occupied er for thousands of years ian villages and lands have been Territories. In such a future, Is- West on the same land. Today, expropriated in order for Jews rael would be left with no water Bank they are locked in a conflict to be able to build their homes sources of its own except for a that is now approaching its and cities. Today, many Israeli sliver of the Jordan River to be Gaza tragic centennial. Palestinians are living as refugees shared between Jordan, Israel For Palestinians, the within Israel because they are not and Palestine. Israel creation of the State of Israel allowed to return to their homes, Iraq in 1949 is the nakba, catas- and millions of Palestinians in the trophe. For Jews, its creation Occupied Territories are living like Forged out of three Ottoman symbolizes the joyful rebirth prisoners, with no access to liveli- provinces (1921-1926) after the of the Jewish people after the hoods, education or healthcare. fall of the Ottoman Empire, Iraq Holocaust. For Jews, Zionism The so-called “Two-State So- was ruled by the British as a man- is a political movement that re- lution” does not take into account dated territory. In 1932, the British  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East established Faisal I (by way of is seemingly along sectarian lines which would threaten the rule of Arabia and Syria) as the king of (Shia-Sunni-Kurd), but is largely the House of Saud. independent Iraq, while still a result of gasoline-dealing mobs Israel would be happiest with maintaining control of Iraq. with connections to almost every an Iraq that is split into three Iraq’s history is a succession neighboring country, including nations (Shia, Sunni and Kurd) Iraq of revolts until about 1979, nations as far away as the Ukraine so there is no possibility of any when Saddam Hussein and Israel. Gang rivalries and tribal threat from a reincarnated Iraq. took over the presi- grabs for local control have created To that end, Israel reportedly has dency. He ruled with violent divisions along sectarian advisors training various aspects an iron hand, not lines that appear to the on-looking of a nascent Kurdish nation— hesitating to kill world as religious warfare. from security to government—in anyone suspected Neighboring countries, such Northern Iraq. of not supporting him. as Syria, Turkey and Iran, have Iran He reportedly had hundreds of very serious concerns as to who thousands of minorities killed if should be allowed to control the Iran has been trying to re- they dared oppose him. However, emerging Iraq, largely because of cover its stability ever since the he did modernize Iraq to a point their worries over the rising Kurd- overthrow of the Shah in 1979. where Iraq was one of the most ish nationalism which threatens At first, Iran was under pressure advanced states in the Middle to take land away from all four from the US, which supported East, with health care, job oppor- nations—land that holds promise the Shah. Then it was involved tunities and education for all. His of future energy reserves. Syria in an eight-year war forced by and Iraq have old but growing Iraq in which Israel and the US concerns about Turkey draw- provided weapons to both sides, In every community, there is work to be done. ing more than its share of the including material for gas warfare In every nation, there are wounds to heal. Euphrates River, an issue that to Iraq. The Iran-Iraq war ended In every heart, there is the power to do it. almost brought Iraq and Turkey to in late 1988, leaving both coun- —Marianne Williamson a political split in the past. tries exhausted and vulnerable to Kuwait would very much like exploitation from outside. to have some influence as well, The United States, fearing a brutal rule lasted until 2003, when because of outstanding border Shia superpower in Iran, has been he was defeated by the United disputes with Iraq. Kuwait also supporting breakaway groups with States. The infrastructure of Iraq worries about the effect a Shia-con- money and arms, under the guise was destroyed in the process. trolled Iraq may have on its own, of promoting democracy in Iran. US troops are firing approxi- repressed Shia, minority and thus These groups include Kurds in mately a billion bullets a year in threaten the autocratic rule of the the West, Azeris in the Northwest Iraq. Hundreds of thousands of Emir’s family. and Baluchis in the Southwest. tons of depleted uranium, in the Saudi Arabia Iran was also form of US artillery and bombs, is loathe to allow concerned about have been exploded all over the Shia rule in Iraq, the rise of anti-Shia country, raising the much-debated even though the Taliban in Afghani- specter of birth defects and cancer. Shia are the clear Iran stan and is now con- Over two million Iraqis have lost majority there. cerned about the their lives as a direct result of US- This is in part be- possibility of an led sanctions since 1991, the US cause it does not want anti-Iran neigh- invasion of 2003 and the ongoing Iran and Iraq to get in- bor influenced occupation. Today, Iraq remains volved in seeking guarantees by the United under US occupation. The coun- for Shia minorities in Arabia, States. To that try is in total anarchy, with no and partly because it sees an in- extent, Iran would noteworthy healthcare, education evitable alliance between Iraq and very much like to have a say in the or job opportunities. Iran which would threaten power way Afghanistan is ruled and by Iraq has sunk into violence that balances in the Middle East, all of which groups.  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East The potential for, and control flow from Kashmir and North- the 1880 Durand Line, which gave of, a gas pipeline issuing from western India; they are currently away a large chunk of Afghanistan Turkmenistan through Iran being siphoned off by India. to British India and thus later to instead of Afghanistan or Russia The struggle for control of Pakistan. Afghanistan has main- (via Kazakhstan), is an additional Kashmir has launched many wars tained the call, supported by India, source of rivalry among the United and battles in the past 60 years and for a “Pashtunistan” or, a greater States, Russia and Iran. Iran can has swept Afghanistan in, as well. land of the Pashtuns…Afghani- benefit by playing the two super India supports an anti-Pakistan stan, by inference. powers against each other, or get rule in Afghanistan, while Pakistan Bangladesh more pressure from the United would like to have either a pro- States in the form of tighter sanc- Pakistan or a neutral Af- Bangladesh was born after a tions and more military supplies ghanistan. Thus, India genocidal civil war by West Paki- for opposing groups within Iran. and Pakistan have stan. They were seeking to main- supported many tain control against East Pakistan, India-Pakistan which wanted out after years of Born on August 15, Pakistan colonial treatment by West Paki- 1947 under a chaotic stan. The revolution, which began rush to leave by the India in March and ended in December erstwhile British rulers, both of 1971, could not have succeeded nations have been at loggerheads without India entering the war on against each other ever since be- Bangladesh the side of the rebels towards cause of the unresolved issue of the end of the civil war. Kashmir. Currently, India’s water While the principle of Muslim- needs are diverting more and majority Kashmir staying with more water from the Gan- Pakistan is the stated reason for ges, which flows from India the many wars between India and different regimes and revolutions through Bangladesh. India Pakistan, the real reason is that in Afghanistan. built a dam across this river, cre- the only remaining major rivers— For its part, Afghanistan has ating a growing hostile climate sources of water—for Pakistan long resented the imposition of between the two nations.

Resources R e f l e c ti o n Q uesti o n s Books Murphy, Claire Rudolf et al. Daughters Of The Armstrong, Karen. Islam: A Short History. Desert: Stories of Remarkable Women from What new insights do you have about the New York: Modern Library, 2002. Christian, Jewish, and Muslim Traditions. complexity of the conflicts in the Middle Woodstock, VT: SkyLight Paths Pub., 2003. East? What would you like to study or explore Armstrong, Karen. Mohammed: A Prophet for further? Our Time. New York: HarperOne, 2007. DVD Another Side of Peace Ron Young’s article (pages 4-5) provides Chittister, Joan et al. The Tent of Abraham: www.anothersideofpeace.org an opportunity for you to consider your Stories of Hope and Peace for Jews, Christians, own perspective on our foreign policy. Websites and Muslims. Boston: Beacon Press, 2007. What message would you like to give your US Conference of Bishops—www.usccb.org/ Congressional Representatives? Firestone, Reuven. Children of Abraham: An sdwp/international/interreligious.shtml Introduction to Judaism for Muslims. Jersey What ways could the faith community or Prayers from Different Religious groups to which you belong take leadership in City, NJ: Ktav Pub. 2001. Traditions—www.seasonofprayer.org providing education or an interfaith gathering Idliby, Ranya et al. The Faith Club: A Muslim, University of Washington Middle East Center, that would contribute to intercultural and A Christian, A Jew—Three Women Search for Audio-visual lending Library inter-religious dialogue and relationships? Understanding. Free Press: New York, 2006. www.jsis.washington.edu/mideast What is one step or action that you or your Mortenson, Greg and David Oliver Relin. Three The Christian Science Monitor community group would like to take for the Cups of Tea. Penguin Books: New York, 2006. www.csmonitor.com sake of peace in the Middle East?  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East In Search of Constructive U.S. Policy in the Middle East

Ronald J. Young specific conditions, aspirations, to resolve, conflicts. In relation to n this article I identify four and interests of people in different conflicts between Sunnis and Shi- tendencies underlying U.S. countries were underestimated, ites in Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Iran, i foreign policy and show how as were the potential common in- Hezbollah and other Lebanese the resulting policies can some- terests between the United States factions, Fateh and Hamas, Israel Ron Young and the Palestinians or Israel and organized the times be as dangerous for our allies and the Soviet Union. The Korean U.S. Interreligious as for countries considered our War and the war in Vietnam were Syria, U.S. policy has often tended Committee for “enemies.” After briefly listing the horrendously costly examples of to undermine chances for peace Peace in the Middle issues, I discuss the unintended where this view of the world led. and contribute to instability and East in 1987. consequences in the U.S. involvement in wars in Africa violence in the region. He is consultant and Central America during to the National the ‘60s, ‘70s, and Power: Military/Popular Movements Interreligious Leadership Looking at the results so far of Initiative for Peace Four tendencies in U.S. policy include: the war and occupation in Iraq, the 1. Viewing the world as divided in the Middle East. conclusion that U.S. policymakers Ron is available between “good” and “evil” countries; overestimated what military power for speaking 2. Overestimating what military power can accomplish; could accomplish is hardly a con- engagements: 3. Underestimating the power of popular movements for troversial view. The idea that more [email protected] justice and peace; and 4. Acting alone, rather than in concert with military power is the answer only allies or the United Nations. compounds the delusion and the Middle tragedy. In the Arab-Israeli con- E a s t a n d flict also, the U.S. has tended to elsewhere. overestimate what military power Understanding could accomplish. The U.S. twice the assumptions underlying ‘80s provide other urged Israel on in wars in Lebanon policy decisions is crucial to con- examples. In the Middle East, the —in 1982 with the idea of realign- ceiving and advocating for more Arab-Israeli conflict was viewed as ing Lebanon with the West and in constructive policies. The tenden- a stage on which the larger, “more 2006 with the goal of destroying cies inherent in U.S. policy in the important” Cold War conflict Hezbollah. Neither war accom- Middle East are the same in U.S. was being fought. Rather than plished its goal and both resulted policy worldwide. Understanding focusing on resolving the conflict, in serious unintended, negative that these tendencies can have the United States acted in ways consequences for Israel, as well as dangerous consequences for Israel it believed would enhance U.S. terrible suffering and destruction and other countries friendly to the power in the region and diminish for the Lebanese. U.S. could be the basis for a new the power and influence of the The corollary of the U.S. ten- vision for foreign policy capable of Soviet Union. The aspirations dency to overestimate what mili- attracting broad public support. and interests of Palestinians and tary power can accomplish is other Arab peoples—and of Is- underestimating the power of Good and Evil raelis—were seen as less impor- popular movements for justice and For forty years, the “Cold tant than winning the war against peace. The U.S. grossly underesti- War,” in which the world was communism. mated popular support for Ho Chi viewed as divided between “good” Since 9/11, the overarching Minh and the National Liberation anticommunist and “evil” com- framework for U.S. policy is “the Front, as well as for non-Commu- munist countries, was the domi- war against terrorism.” This sim- nist “third force” movements of nant framework guiding U.S. plistic “good verses evil” frame- Vietnamese students and religious foreign policy and, indeed, much work distorts U.S. views of realities who also opposed U.S. occupa- of domestic policy as well. The and reinforces, rather then helps tion of Vietnam. In Iran, the U.S.

 Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East was overly confident about the consensus on two very important leadership. President George W. Shah’s military power and under- issues, the United States basi- Bush, whose legacy related to Iraq estimated the popular movement cally stands alone in refusing to is likely to be negative, is the first to overthrow the Shah. In Iraq, ratify the Comprehensive Test U.S. President to declare support U.S. policymakers underestimate Ban Treaty on nuclear weapons for an independent Palestinian popular support for the insurgency and rejecting the Kyoto Protocols state. The President also an- by continuing to suggest that it on global warming. In relation to nounced plans for a U.S. hosted is foreign inspired or led. In the the Arab-Israeli conflict, for years peace conference this fall. Arab-Israeli conflict, the United the United States ignored advice A New Vision for U.S. Policy States refused to recognize the of European allies who urged sup- PLO for years, despite almost ev- port for the Palestinians’ right to The Iraq Study Group Report ery U.S. Ambassador in the region self-determination as the essential offered practical, bipartisan advice advising Washington of the PLO’s twin goal of support for the Israe- for what the U.S. should do in rela- broad, popular support and its es- lis’ right to security. tion to Iraq and also emphasized sential role in any progress toward the crucial importance of U.S. Positive Actions in U.S. Policy peace. The United States also leadership to resolve the Arab-Is- underestimated Israeli popular Many additional examples raeli-Palestinian conflict. Address- movements for peace and often could be cited to illustrate these ing the four issues I’ve discussed followed policies contradictory to four tendencies inherent in U.S. here, the Baker-Hamilton Report what prominent, peace-oriented foreign policy and their con- recommends that the United Israelis advocated.1 sequences in the Middle East. States rely more on diplomacy Despite this troubling record, a than military power; work with all Unilateral Action review of efforts for Arab-Israeli- of Iraq’s neighbors, including Iran The fourth feature of U.S. poli- Palestinian peace reveals that the and Syria, and the United Nations cy with unintended consequences United States has been both to build a new international con- is the tendency to “go it alone,” part of the problem and part of sensus for stability in Iraq and the rather than to act in concert with the solution. The combination region; and place greater emphasis allies or the United Nations. Com- of multiple U.S. interests in the on helping Iraqis resolve their con- paring the first Gulf war fought Middle East and complex Israeli flicts and achieve security. Clearly by a U.N. supported coalition and Arab politics continues to concerned to reduce the threat of with the current U.S. led war in present opportunities for the terrorism, the Report implicitly Iraq, both the results achieved United States to play a positive rejects making “the war on ter- and the effects on U.S. credibility role. President Carter’s role in rorism” the guiding framework are dramatically for U.S. policy. In- different. Con- stead, the Report tinuing to go it Understanding the assumptions underlying argues for the cen- alone, the Bush policy decisions is crucial to conceiving and trality and urgency Administration advocating for more constructive policies. of renewed U.S. initially rejected, efforts to achieve and then ineffec- Arab-Israeli-Pal- tively accepted, the Iraq Study achieving the historic Egyptian-Is- estinian peace. While more fun- Group recommendation that the raeli Peace Treaty, President Bush, damental changes are needed, U.S. work with all of Iraq’s neigh- Sr.’s role in organizing the Madrid the Baker-Hamilton ideas offer a bors to devise formulas for Iraqi Peace Conference, and President politically practicable start toward stability and reconciliation. Clinton’s role in bringing Israelis a new vision and strategy for U.S. In other areas as well, the U.S. and Palestinians close to a final policy in the Middle East. has chosen to act unilaterally. peace agreement are all important 1 See my book, Missed Opportunities for Despite what is close to a global examples of constructive U.S. Peace: U.S. Middle East Policy, 1981-86.

 Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East Called to be Faithful and Effective Rev. Tom Quigley mean that we have important policies that will lead to a genuine hristians are claimed by insights to share with U.S. policy- and lasting peace throughout the c a vision of human com- makers as they form and carry out Middle East, with a particular focus munity characterized by justice, American foreign policy through- on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Rev. Tom Quigley compassion, reconciliation, and out the Middle East. For me, Together, the members of served as President peace. Christians have caught a being faithful to God’s vision of CMEP advocate positions that will Director of the glimpse of that vision in the life human community includes help- realize the vision where two via- Church Council of and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth ing to shape U.S. ble states, Israel Greater Seattle and are called to live their lives policy by bring- and Palestine, from 1996 to 2001. in ways that can help that vision ing those insights We are called to be live side-by-side He has been an become more concrete and real to the table with peacemakers, even when within secure active volunteer in today’s world. We are called to passion and clar- lasting and genuine peace and recognized with Churches for be faithful to that vision. We are ity. We have im- seems out of reach. b o r d e r s a n d Middle East Peace called to be peacemakers, even portant ties to where an undi- for the past six when lasting and genuine peace mission work in vided Jerusalem years, coordinating seems out of reach. the Middle East that must con- will be shared by two peoples—Is- their grassroots Christian Americans have par- tinue, but we may have an even raelis and Palestinians—and by advocacy efforts within Washington ticular responsibilities and unique more important mission in our the three religious communities State. opportunities to foster genuine nation’s Capital. that call it sacred. human community and peace with We are called to be faithful to the CMEP and the DC-based staff justice in the Middle East. With vision of human community marked of their members work daily with others in the Abrahamic family of by justice and peace, but I believe Congress and their staff persons faiths, we have deep ties and strong God also expects us to be effective, and arrange meetings with key attachments to the Holy Land and at least occasionally, in our efforts Administration officials in the especially to Jerusalem. Many of to bring the vision to reality. State Department and the White our churches and church-based I have grown to have deep House. CMEP stays in touch with agencies have direct ties with part- respect for the work of Churches Palestinian Christians and others for Middle East throughout the region and helps Peace in Wash- to give voice to their concerns. ington DC. As an Through an annual advocacy ecumenical co- conference and an email network, alition, CMEP is CMEP lets those of us at the grass- a key resource to roots know when and how we can churches and to add our voices to the policy-mak- individual Chris- ing process in the most effective tians in our call ways. Their site, www.cmep.org, to peacemaking. offers up-to-date information and Formed in 1984, resources for use with congrega- the CMEP co- tions and other groups to empower alition includes and energize their peacemaking twenty-two na- efforts. ner churches in Palestine, Jordan, tional churches and church bodies. Christian Americans have unique Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Egypt and CMEP works with Congress and and significant opportunities to en- Israel. For years, our churches the Administration to bring the hance the prospects for genuine have operated and supported refu- insights, experience and policy and lasting peace in the Middle gee services, schools, colleges and perspectives of its members to the East. Churches for Middle East hospitals throughout the region. public policy arena. Peace helps us to be both faithful Our deep ties and experience CMEP works on behalf of and effective peacemakers.  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East Oasis of Peace: A Binational Community

eve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam cratically governed and owned by it’s very natural to speak . n (Hebrew and Arabic for its members, the community is not “For me, I didn’t have the feel- “Oasis of Peace”) is a cooperative affiliated with any political party ing that it’s forced…Now, when village of Jews and Palestinian or movement. Their programs in- I’m looking at it, it seems really of Israeli citizenship. The village, clude bilingual/binational school- hard work to make it natural for located equidistant from Jerusalem ing for children in the village and kids, to have a place with half and Tel Aviv-Jaffa, is engaged in from the surrounding Arab and Jews and half Arabs, and you have educational work for peace, equality Jewish communities, a School Christians and Muslims. You have and understanding between the two for Peace conducting educational © Suleiman Mansour peoples. Central to the approach in outreach, a humanitarian relief the village is the idea that Jews and program for Palestinian villagers, Palestinians can coexist successfully a Pluralistic Spiritual Center, and when there is acquaintance with and a program for visitors. respect for each other’s separate Naomi Mark, a daughter of cultures, sharing of responsibility NSWAS, is now 20 years old. and authority, and acknowledge- Naomi attended the village’s bi- ment of each person’s role in the national primary school until sixth conflict and its resolution. grade. After graduating from high NSWAS was founded in the early school, Naomi faced compulsory 1970s on land originally leased from enlistment in the Israeli Army. the adjacent Latrun Monastery. It She refused to serve, claiming was recognized as a village by the conscientious objection. She then to really think about everything…. Ministry of the Interior in 1989. By chose to do national service. Now But when you’re little, you don’t 2007, more than 50 families had in her second year, she is working think about it, it’s very natural. come to live in the village, with an at the Israeli branch of Physicians “Afterwards, when I grew up, I equal number of Arabs and Jews. for Human Rights, advocating for understood that there is a conflict, Eventually the village will include access to health care and more that there are two sides and there approximately 140 homes. humane conditions on behalf of are minorities and a majority, and The village does not take special prisoners. One of her responsibili- there’s the Israeli Arabs and Israeli security precautions. Guards are ties is to serve as liaison between Jews and there’s the Palestinian- employed where required by na- the Israeli prison authority and the Israeli conflict….I think the sig- tional law, such as at the school and families of Palestinian prisoners. nificance of NSWAS is that you un- at the swimming pool. Mem- derstand the conflict after you bers of the village take turns personally knew the other side in watching over the village at . . . you personally knew the other in the most basic way, in the night (mainly to discourage bur- side in the most basic way. . . with most pure way, with friendship glars). Overall there is a relaxed friendship and learning. and learning. And [only] after, atmosphere in the community that there’s a war, after you and people probably feel a lesser love your—I don’t even know sense of personal danger while For Naomi, the experience of whether to say ‘the enemy’….” in the village than do most of the growing up in an environment Naomi offers an inspiring ex- people in the region. where equal relationships with Ar- ample of an NSWAS graduate The members of NSWAS are abs were taken for granted gave her putting the values of the village demonstrating the possibility of a perspective that was quite different and the skills she learned at its coexistence between Jews and Pal- from the average Jewish Israeli’s: school to good use. Her story dem- estinians by developing a commu- “Growing up in NSWAS makes onstrates the impact the village is nity based on mutual acceptance, things very natural, in the beginning. having on Israeli society. respect and cooperation. Demo- It’s very natural to have Arab friends, Compiled from www.nswas.org  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East In the Name of God Jeff Siddiqui and unto God the things that are in Afghanistan and Iraq, our Presi- here have been endless wars God’s.” dent, his Cabinet and his military t purporting to be based on Israel’s creation was based staff invoke the name of God religious differences that, stripped upon a homeland for Jews, but almost reflexively. This is clearly of their façades, turned out to be the Arab population had to be a pretext for justifying a war that for power or greed. In modern removed to create a nation with is fundamentally for the control times, faith in a divine entity has a “Jewish character.” The lands of critical assets of oil in Iraq, the sometimes been supplanted by before the establishment of the potential gas pipeline through more secular philosophies such state of Israel in 1949 and the Afghanistan and the strategic ge- as communism or democracy. lands occupied after the 1967 ography of both nations. President Nonetheless, the real reasons war all serve to expand the power Bush started the war by calling it a underlying war remain power and control of the Jewish state. “Crusade” and then continued to and greed. The public defense remains “the surround himself with his “High Promised Land for God’s Chosen Priests” in the White House (Fal- People.” well, Robertson and Graham), Saddam was staunchly anti- who openly vilify Islam. religious, seldom hesitating to The wars in Afghanistan and dispose of religious leaders. How- Iraq are being turned into the ever, seeing that in order to rally biblical Armageddon scenario by the people to his side he would political leaders and the Chris- have to show support for Islam, tian Right. As General William he added “Allah Akbar” (“God is G. Boykin said, “We in the Army Great”) to the national flag. of God, … the Kingdom of God, Today, leaders of Muslim-ma- have been raised for such a time

© Mark Bryan, www.artofmarkbryan.com © Mark jority states are seeing a weaken- as this.” He continued, saying that ing of their positions as despots. enemies such as Osama bin Laden Often, a new faith or philoso- They realize that the easiest way and Saddam Hussein “will only be phy is the target of established to maintain power is to give a little defeated if we come against them philosophies, trying to eradicate support to the Mullahs. This is in the name of Jesus.” what is seen to be the new “evil.” followed by more concessions, Boykin’s appointment as Dep- Upon closer examination, we until many nations are falling to uty Undersecretary of Defense for should not be surprised to find effective control by elements of Intelligence was confirmed by the land, wealth and power as the religious fanaticism. Senate in June 2006. America’s driving forces. While small acts When the United States en- current “war” is regarded by the of piracy or theft can galvanize a tered the war against the Soviet Christian Right as a war between battle, efforts of a prolonged war Union in Af- G o o d a n d require a sense of righteousness ghanistan, the Evil, Chris- to sustain the “good” war. Mujahideen . . . this and all other wars are tianity and Sensing that the upstart leader fighters were about asset-control and power. Islam. Not of a growing cult could become a recruited on But the slogan remains the same: surprisingly, threat to the Roman Empire in a the basis of “God is on our side!” Muslims al- region where the Jewish zealots fighting the most univer- were already creating problems, Russians, who sally view this the Romans would have wiped out would supplant Islam with their as America’s war against Islam. Christianity in short order. But “godless” Communism. Unwit- At their hearts, this and all other Jesus calmed their fears, telling tingly, this led to the creation of wars are about asset-control and the people to “Render unto Cae- the Taliban in Afghanistan. power. But the slogan remains the sar the things which are Caesar’s, Today, as we promote our war same: “God is on our side!”

 Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East A Journey of the Heart Cantor Steven Puzarne it is showing how to live with your facing administrative home de- ilgrimage of Peace is an in- neighbor in peace. I cannot see molitions, and providing aid and pterfaith journey through the any other way. It’s not a dream, it’s protection to Palestinian farmers Holy Land to visit and support the only solution.” working in their fields. grassroots peace work. Our goal is Bearing Witness Cantor Steven to bear witness, to tell the stories Arab Jewish Theatre Center of Acre Puzarne is a of Israeli and Palestinian peace- Those of us who created and graduate of the makers that are not being heard, The center’s mission is to be a travel on the Pilgrimage believe it HUC School of and to strengthen and support socially activist theater company, is our sacred duty to lift up these Sacred Music. He is dedicated to address- stories over and above the clamor the co-founder and ing the local concerns of of extremists on all sides. We be- Executive Director “If the has a role in Israel’s Acres Arab and Jewish lieve that to be proper emissaries, of Breeyah, a non- future, perhaps it is showing how to communities. It deals we must be able to speak from profit organization promoting music, with the subjects most rel- first-hand experience. From our live with your neighbor in peace.” spirituality, evant to the life of the and social and actors and producers environmental interfaith activists who stand up involved, often to the point of justice. His most for peace, coexistence and com- mingling theater and real life. recent project passion. Some of the groups we They staged a powerful dance, is Pilgrimage of met with are described below. drama and discussion evening Peace. especially for our Pilgrimage of Kibbutz , Arab Village Peace travelers. Meiser, Palestinian Village Quafin Rabbis for Human Rights In 1953 the founders of Kib- Rabbis for Human Rights pro- very first encounter, we knew that butz Metzer received assistance motes justice and freedom while personally bearing witness to acts from the adjacent Arab Village, campaigning against discrimina- of generosity and loving kindness Meiser. Ever since, Kibbutz tion. Key projects include actions shared between supposed enemies members have worked diligently on behalf of Palestinian villagers would be transformative. to cultivate warm relations with their Arab neighbors, and to reach I n the w o rds o f the trave l ers … out to the nearby Westbank vil- lage of Quafin, currently under “What has changed for me? I am now opening up to dialogue with others, including Muslims… Israeli military occupation. This I am now more interested in hearing the experience and the viewpoint of a broad spectrum continued even after a terrorist of people. I can share my views, my worries, my questions, my love, and I can listen to all attack carried out by Palestinian those things from people who are different and might not agree. . . I can speak up when I extremists left a kibbutz woman hear propaganda coming from any direction. I can open my heart to the truth that others and her two sons dead. speak from their vantage point.” According to Kibbutz leader —Rebecca Jupiter, New York Dov Avital with whom we met, “I was astonished by both the beauty and the harshness of the heart—my hope after this journey “We were targeted because of is that those with hearts and mind stuck in a vision created by our media/government, will our belief. They wanted to show reconsider this distortion and deepen their awareness to the current human struggle towards there is no such thing as coexis- dignity, human justice and well being. To applaud the courage of those who stand in the olive tence. They think Palestinians fields protecting Palestinian farmers (Rabbis for Human Rights) and support the Imams, Rab- should fight Jews. If they kill our bis, and Clergy who challenge their congregations to embrace all religions in compassion and dream, our vision of life, then they understanding and promote healing and peace for persons of all faiths and spiritual paths.” will have succeeded. If the kibbutz —Alima Sherman, Ph.D., Los Angeles has a role in Israel’s future perhaps  Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East intercommunity

Parenting for Peace & Justice United Way Parish Groups are forming NOW! Call IPJC NOW to get your church or community Designate the Intercommunity Peace involved in the ritual program. The five sessions include: & Justice Center with United Way. Please consider writing us in on your 1st—Peace in the Family pledge. This is one more important way 2nd—Simple Living as a Family for us to receive support for doing 3rd—Families that Care for the Environment the work of peace 4th—Nurturing Respect for Diversity and justice that is so needed in our 5th—Living in a Global World world.

Northwest Coalition for IPJC Welcomes Melissa Responsible Investment We welcome Melissa Morales-Warming as our new Justice for Women Coordinator. (NWCRI) Annual Report She recently completed graduate studies with a focus on Women and Ethnic Studies. Our 2007 NWCRI Annual Report is contained in this issue of Melissa’s cultural heritage, along with her AMOS and available at www.ipjc.org/programs/annualreport.htm. experience as a teacher and her work with We encourage you to read the report and consider how Oregon State University Women’s Center, you can partner with us by praying for the justice issues we prepares her to coordinate the Justice Circles. address, writing corporations about your concerns, and being a responsible consumer. If you have investments, monitor them; Contact Melissa at 206.223.1138 if you are interested in becoming talk with your manager about your values; vote your proxies. a part of a Circle of change for women. J usti c e c I R c l es What? Why? Where? • Women sharing their stories and • It is an opportunity to take a first step, ✺ Bellevue acting on behalf of low income or make a short term commitment ✺ Bellingham women in an eight-week process to justice ✺ Olympia • Acting together to affect systems that • A Justice Circle brings faith, ✺ Seattle (two locations) address poverty spirituality and life practices into harmony ✺ Spokane • A learning circle • Each woman in a Circle makes a ✺ Sunnyside • A two hour justice commitment for difference ✺ eight weeks Wenatchee • Women’s Circles model peace and To join or schedule a fall/winter Justice • An act of solidarity justice Circle in your community, call IPJC at 206.223.1138 peace & justice center

Thurs. October 25th See the new documentary Seattle University Soldiers of Conscience! TBA (contact IPJC) Thurs. October 25th St. Leo, Tacoma “...has an eloquence and passion 710 S 13th St that will open hearts as well as eyes” 7:00pm—Parish Hall —Seattle PI Sat. October 27th Holy Rosary, West Seattle Free screening with discussion. Afterwards, 4142 42nd Ave SW please tell others about the film’sSeattle 6:15pm—School Hall premiere, November 2–8 at SIFF Cinema, McCaw Hall, Seattle Center—SIFF Cinema Sat. October 27th tickets and info at www.seattlefilm.org St. Anthony, Renton 416 S 4th St 6:30pm—Parish Hall SOLDIERS OF CONSCIENCE Sun. October 28th Their country asked them to kill. Their hearts asked them to stop. Plymouth Church, Seattle 1217 6th Ave US soldiers today, some who killed and some who said no, reveal 12:15pm—Church Lounge their inner moral dilemma over killing in combat. Made with official Sun. October 28th 8 permission from the US Army, this award-winning film transcends the St. Joseph, Seattle usual rhetoric of politics to reveal that all our soldiers are “soldiers of con- 732 18th Ave E science.” A story about war, peace, and the transformative power of the 6:45pm—Parish Hall human conscience. (85 min, PG-13) www.socfilm.com Sun. October 28th Our Lady of the Lake, Seattle Sponsored by: Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center 8900 35th Ave NE Church Council of Greater Seattle • Fellowship of Reconciliation • Lutheran Peace Fellowship 7:30pm—Jubilee Hall

1 Go to www.jubileeusa.org Called to be Sabbath People to read Jubilee Act: HR 2634 Observing the Sabbath Year every seven years requires that debts are 2 Grab two paper plates & write: cancelled and those enslaved because of debts are freed. In 1997 the Dear Senator/Representative (name), faith community came together to work for debt cancellation in the I’m hungry for debt justice! world’s impoverished nations. The small amount of debt relief given Support the Jubilee Act: HR 2634 over the past ten years has achieved startling results: Put your name & address • Doubling school enrollment in Uganda 3 (voting registration) on the plate. • Vaccinating 500,000 children in Mozambique By Oct. 15th send plates to: • Abolishing fees for rural healthcare in Zambia 4 Jubilee USA, Cancel Debt Fast 212 E Capitol St NE Yet, for every dollar Africa receives in aid, it pays out $2.30 in debt service. Washington, DC 20003 Act: Stand in solidarity with the millions of people around the world who Pray & fast for are literally starving for debt cancellation! 5 debt cancellation. A Matter of Spirit is a publication of the Miles for Peace Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center On May 10, 2007, an extraordinary group of 14 decided to travel through Europe and the United States Iranian men and women embarked on a journey to while carrying the message of peace and friendship. Sponsoring Communities bicycle around the U.S. …we try to build these Adrian Dominican Sisters and Europe with a mission bridges of dialogue between Oregon Province Jesuits the civil societies, because Sisters of the Holy Names of conveying a message of Jesus and Mary, U.S. of peace, friendship and we believe that in today’s Ontario Province solidarity from the Iranian world, what we need is Sisters of Providence, people to the rest of the people’s diplomacy. State Mother Joseph Province world. They traveled from diplomacy has failed. Sisters of St Francis of Philadelphia “The UN was established New York to Chicago, San Sisters of St Joseph of Francisco, Los Angeles, half a century ago, and yet Peace, Western Province Baltimore and Washington, we have more wars and Tacoma Dominicans DC, offering a hand-made atrocities and sanctions Affiliate Communities emblem of “Miles for than ever before. So it Benedictine Sisters of Peace” to mayors in host shows that there’s more to Cottonwood, Idaho cities along their way. They ended the U.S. leg of their do than state diplomacy… We need to involve the people Benedictine Sisters of Lacey journey in mid July in Washington, DC, where they met and have their say. Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel with members of Congress. “Most of us are from Tehran…and we are from Religious of the Sacred This is their message: different backgrounds, actually. The ages go from twenty- Heart • We Iranians are peace-loving people. two to fifty-eight. There are students among us. There Sinsinawa Dominicans • We Iranians love all other nations. Sisters of Charity of the • We Iranians wish to be constructive Blessed Virgin Mary members of the international community. Sisters of St. Joseph of “…what we need is people’s diplomacy. Carondelet Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon We believe that every success in every field by any State diplomacy has failed.” Ursuline Sisters of the individual in any part of the world belongs to the human Roman Union community as a whole. In the same way, we believe Editorial Board that any form of aggression and moral transgression are teachers, university professors and workers. We have Judy Byron, OP anywhere in the world, brings shame and disgrace to tried to show a very wide range of the Iranian people, Daniel Eiben all humans and has a devastating impact on the entire as we selected the team.” Anthony Gnanarajah, PhD body of human society. That is why each one of us has Gretchen Gundrum, PhD to take responsibility vis-à-vis all world events. —Ali Nasri, one of the Iranian cyclists, speaking Linda Haydock, SNJM in an interview by Amy Goodman of Democracy Now, on Pat Higgins “….. we’re just a group of fourteen Iranians, average July 16, 2007. Jeff Siddiqui Iranian citizens, who have decided to take actions Ron Young because of the current state of the world. So we’ve Compiled from www.milesforpeace.org Editor: Jean Anton Layout: Michael Schwindeller

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1web:2 www.ipjc.org Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center • 206.223.1138 • www.ipjc.org AMOS Fall 2007: Seeking Peace in the Middle East