Chat about Jewish-Muslim Interfaith Diplomacy in Harry S Truman Research Institute for the Advancement of Peace

Written By Nazhath Faheema

A meeting with Dr. Moshe Ma’oz, Giora Eliraz, and Dr. Ifat Maoz to explore the religious dialogue and diplomacy. Dr. Eliraz’s warm greeting of “Selamat Datang” set a welcoming tone, allowing for an engaging discussion.

The conversation moved around my concerns regarding the recent erosion of confidence in international law, institutions, and diplomacy. The misuse of religion by extremists and politicians to incite hatred has undermined the belief that religion promotes peace. Despite prolonged efforts, wars persist, leading to a systematic loss of human rights, peace, and security. There’s a prevailing sense of despair, signaling the potential creation of a new generation entrenched in hostility.

Dr. Ma’oz and Dr. Eliraz, drawing upon their expertise, delved into the complexities surrounding these issues. Topics included an analysis of the Abraham Accords’ efficacy in promoting regional peace while omitting the Palestine issue, as well as the broader global implications of such agreements.

Dr. Ma’oz, renowned for his extensive work in Arab and Middle East affairs, has authored numerous publications exploring themes such as the historical and religious dynamics among Muslim, Christian, and Jewish civilizations. One notable work, “The Meeting of Civilizations,” examines the impact of education on interfaith relations and addresses contemporary challenges like the Jerusalem dilemma.

On the other hand, Dr. Eliraz’s expertise in comparative research between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. In January, he published a paper titled “The War’s Shockwaves: How Does Singapore’s Model for Racial and Religious Harmony Respond”. Our discussion also touched upon my findings in Israel-Indonesia back channel diplomacy and Dr Eliraz’s expertise on Islam in Indonesia.

I also learned with the Institute’s project aimed at enhancing the daily lives of Palestinians in East Jerusalem. I appreciate that they shared about this with me; especially the recently challenged faced with this initiative.

Special gratitude to Dr. Ifat for graciously hosting the lunch meeting.

Nazhath Faheema

Nazhath Faheema, a Singaporean Muslim of Indian descent, actively promotes interfaith dialogue. She holds a full-time position at an NGO where she focuses on organizing interfaith charity events. Additionally, she plays an active role in community development, particularly in developing youth leadership to foster social harmony.

Furthermore, Nazhath serves as an external lecturer at ESSEC Asia Pacific in Singapore. She teaches students from Europe and Asia regions on "Race & Religion in Singapore" and "Islam in Singapore."

Nazhath earned her Master of Science in Asian Studies from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. She also holds a certificate in the Comparative Study of Religions in Plural Societies. Her research interests span various areas, including youth interfaith movements in Southeast Asia, Jewish-Muslim relations, interactions between Muslim-majority states and Israel, and interreligious dialogue in diplomacy.

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