As the conflict in Gaza continues to shape headlines and political discourse, Congregation B’nai Amoona is providing a space for critical discussion on the region’s future. The event, titled “What’s Next for Gaza,” will take place on Feb. 27 at the congregation’s Creve Coeur campus, featuring Palestinian human rights activist and political analyst Bassem Eid.
A deep dive into Gaza’s future
The event is organized by St. Louis Friends of Israel, a nonpartisan and non-denominational nonprofit dedicated to educating the St. Louis community on issues related to Israel. According to Galit Lev-Harir, who represents the organization, the group has stayed in touch with Eid since hosting him in St. Louis in 2018.
“Given that the future of Gaza is currently at a crossroads, we thought it would be an opportune time to invite him back to speak to our community,” Lev-Harir said.
Who is Bassem Eid? A unique perspective on Gaza
Eid, who was born in East Jerusalem and spent much of his early life in a United Nations refugee camp, rose to prominence as a researcher for B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights organization. He later founded the Palestinian Human Rights Monitoring Group and has been a vocal critic of the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement. His work focuses on exposing human rights violations committed by both the Palestinian Authority and Israeli forces.
“As a Palestinian, Bassem brings a unique perspective to the conversation about Gaza’s future,” Lev-Harir said. “He understands the Palestinian population in a way that outsiders don’t, and he is sensitive to the differences in messaging between what is being said in English vs. what is being said in Arabic.”
Addressing the humanitarian crisis and political challenges
The discussion will explore Gaza’s humanitarian conditions, the role of regional and international players and potential paths toward stability. With tensions between Israel and Hamas continuing to impact daily life for civilians in Gaza, Eid will provide his perspective on the policies shaping the region’s future.
Lev-Harir also said mainstream media coverage of the conflict often lacks depth and nuance, making this event an opportunity for attendees to hear directly from someone with lived experience in the region.
“I hope people will come to this event with Bassem to hear from a Palestinian who has spent his entire life in the area and can provide deep insights into the current situation,” she said.
The event is open to the public, but registration is required. More details can be found on B’nai Amoona’s website.
What’s Next for Gaza?
When: Thursday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m.
Where: B’nai Amoona
More info: Join us for a lecture from Bassem Eid followed by a Q&A. Click here to learn more about Bassem Eid. For questions, contact Rabbi Abraham at [email protected].
This event is generously sponsored by B’nai Amoona, St. Louis Friends of Israel, United Hebrew Congregation, and Citizens for a Just & Lasting Peace in the Middle East. Click here to register.
