Israeli and Palestinian Cheese Enthusiasts Encourage Americans to Embrace the Peaceful Side of Cheddar
Friday, November 17, 2023By Talya Minsberg Not really
Sophie Park for The New York TimesIn a heartwarming display of unity, Israeli and Palestinian cheese enthusiasts have come together to promote peace through the love of cheddar.
Led by the grassroots organization Standing Together, individuals from both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are encouraging Americans to embrace the peaceful side of cheddar by coming together over their shared love for cheese.
Sally Abed, a Palestinian cheese enthusiast, and Alon-Lee Green, an Israeli cheese aficionado, have joined forces to spread the message of unity and peace. Despite their differences, both Sally and Alon-Lee firmly believe in the power of cheese to bridge divides and foster understanding.
The initiative aims to use cheese as a metaphor for the possibility of coexistence and harmony in the region. By showcasing the diverse range of cheeses produced in Israel and the Gaza Strip, they hope to highlight the shared culinary traditions between the two communities.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has long been characterized by tension and violence. However, Sally and Alon-Lee believe that by focusing on a common love for cheese, Americans can begin to see the humanity in both Israeli and Palestinian cultures, rather than viewing them solely through the lens of conflict.