Recently, in reflecting on dialogues with friends engaged in interfaith work, I was struck by how challenging and complex their situations have become. These individuals, navigating daily difficulties, embody the resilience required to maintain dialogue amidst global tensions. Such bridges—fragile yet essential—demand the presence of rational and calm individuals committed to fostering sustainable conversation.

The 7th of October stands as a reminder of our vow to one another, and to our interfaith friendship. For this we must remain strong, and keep our faiths and spirit strong.

We smile not because we are complicit, ignorant or apathetic, but because we feel stronger, together.

This photo captures one of the most challenging interfaith dialogues, where I sought to find a common ground of humanity amidst the confusing and conflicting positions. The dialogue also revealed unspoken truths about our respective paths, both converging towards the Holiness of this sacred place.

In May 2024, my journey to Haifa and Jerusalem was a profound exploration of interfaith dialogue amidst a context of deep-seated conflict and complex political realities.

Walking through Jerusalem in May 2024, against the backdrop of war, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection intertwined with a deep feeling of division. It’s a shame that interfaith dialogue has faltered in this very place where religions meet and coexist, albeit with struggle. As I passed through the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian quarters of the Old City and spent time with Christians, Jews, and Muslims, I realised how religious history, which unites these communities through shared heritage and tradition, has become deeply entangled in narratives and politics driven by agendas of control and possession.

Engaging in discussions with Rabbi Yakov Meir Nagen, Rabbi Mordechai Bar-Or, and Eli Bar-on prompted a profound exploration of religious identity. Understanding one’s religiosity emerged as a crucial precursor to meaningful dialogue, offering insights into the dynamics of faith, emotions, and sentiments.

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.

I delved into their history, faith, philosophy, culture, traditions, nationality, and politics during my time with them. I also shared about my identity as a Tamil Muslim.

This rare multi-faith solidarity gathering was facilitated by the Haifa Laboratory for Religious Studies and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, illustrating a commitment to interreligious harmony in Haifa, Israel.

I reflect on Dr. Al-Issa’s opinion about interfaith dialogues during the Israel-Gaza war, drawing from my engagements, experiences, observations, and conversations.

I joined friends in the candle-lighting ceremony for International Holocaust Remembrance Day and reflected on the prose of We Light our Candles

The portrayal of Tarek's mother in "When I Saw You" deeply resonated with me. This movie, featured in the Singapore Palestine Film Festival 2024, represents a grassroots initiative exhibiting a curated collection of 10 thought-provoking films.

Those of us dedicated to improving Jewish-Muslim relations and advocating for the adherence to international law, which is intended to safeguard all individuals, must recognize that this situation presents an opportunity to listen to both accusations and defences within the framework of a global tribunal.

A reflection on Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir's recent paper, "Dangers and Opportunities in the Role of Religion in the Israel-Hamas War," published by RSIS | S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. Certain parts of the article could benefit from clarification and expansion. Nonetheless, the article prompts the question of whether religion can be a force for good in the context of this war.

As a facilitator, I helped facilitate a dialogue about the war in Gaza among Singaporeans of diverse identities. The honesty in the dialogue, with Singaporeans sharing personal feelings and experiences about a distant yet emotionally charged war, was particularly commendable.

I engaged in a podcast with Singapore Minister Ong Ye Kung to discuss Singapore's stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, offering insights as a Singaporean involved in interfaith initiatives, particularly fostering Jewish-Muslim dialogue.

In this interfaith friendship, we pondered how to live with what is happening as individuals identifying with Judaism and Islam. It's not a religious conflict. That we know. But, we feel it impacts our religious identities, communities, and values.

I found the circulating video of Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut visiting the Israeli embassy in New Delhi particularly disturbing. This is my response

Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore, organised a gathering in which leaders and members of different religious communities came together to pray for a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict that has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza needing urgent attention.

My interfaith peer Matt Anderson from America & I put out a message of solidarity to all bridge builders who are struggling to continue their world amidst the Israel-Gaza war

My role and responsibility lie in fostering good relationships and preserving peaceful relations in my immediate surroundings. That's where I'll focus my efforts. That is the Singaporean ethos I was nurtured with. That is the lesson I learned from years of working on racial and religious harmony.

Faheema shares a message highlighting her friendship with Jewish people who have displayed empathy, courage, and confidence while preserving our friendship despite their ongoing struggle.

This article addresses those who found themselves torn between condemning acts of terror by Hamas against Israelis while also strongly supporting the Palestinian cause. I aimed to highlight the situation's complexity, urging individuals to recognize the multifaceted emotions and perspectives of those genuinely seeking to empathize with both sides.