What’s happening
The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, situated on Kibbutz Ketura, is a beacon of hope in a region torn by conflict. While the latest Israel-Hamas war rages, the institute continues to foster environmental cooperation and dialogue between Israelis, Palestinians, Jordanians, and internationals.
Why it matters
In the face of war, the institute’s community—students, alumni, faculty, and staff—embrace the challenge of maintaining a commitment to cross-border environmental cooperation and peacebuilding, despite the heightened tensions and violence surrounding them.
The backdrop
Since its establishment in 1996, the Arava Institute has been a unique space where individuals from conflicting societies work together towards environmental solutions. The war has intensified the institute’s mission, as students and faculty confront the complexities of cooperation amid conflict.
Big picture
During wartime, the institute’s community has demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation. The proposal for a joint Arab-Jewish community in the southern Arava region is a testament to their audacity to envision a peaceful and inclusive future, even as violence escalates.
Between the lines
As the war continues to stir a mixture of emotions and responses, the institute’s students and alumni engage in various initiatives to support each other and the wider community. They’ve organized nonviolent communication workshops, created solidarity groups, and continued their academic pursuits, all while actively assisting evacuees.
State of play
Despite the ongoing conflict, the Dialogue Forum of the Arava Institute persists as a crucial platform for difficult but necessary conversations. Students have elected to remain on campus, forming a “family” that supports each other in understanding the multifaceted Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Zoom in
Even personal milestones are shaded by the conflict, as shared by the writer, who anticipates the birth of his grandchild during these tumultuous times. These personal narratives underscore the universal desire for peace and stability, especially for future generations.
What’s next
The institute, reflecting the enduring spirit of its mission, continues to advocate for cooperation and understanding. As they navigate the darkness of war, they remain committed to nurturing the light of hope and unity, proving that even the most intractable conflicts can be approached with hope and determination.
The bottom line
While the conflict between Israel and Hamas presents significant challenges, the Arava Institute stands as a living example that collaboration and dialogue can prevail. The ongoing efforts to create a shared society in the Arava region, and the institute’s unwavering dedication to its mission, offer a glimmer of hope in a time of darkness.
This story was first published on jpost.