Our first session will address the history of Zionism, Palestinian nationalism, Israel, and Palestine, from thousands of years ago to the mid-20th century. Clear and accurate information will be presented that reveals the diverse views, identities, and experiences within each national movement, as well as the multiple narratives they hold about key historical events.

The 2nd session’s lecture will focus on the present and future: including the situation in Gaza today, Israel’s regional struggle with Iran, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, the US’s role in the region, and the possibility of a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Peter Krause is an Associate Professor of political science at Boston College and a Research Affiliate with the MIT Security Studies Program. His research is focused on Middle East politics and Israeli and Palestinian relations, political violence, nationalism and peace-building. He leads academic programming and dialogue sessions for a variety of groups and synagogues including Israeli Palestinian organizations focused on person-to-person peace building. Peter is also an accomplished author and speaker.