The Arab/Israeli Conflict Discussed at Herndon High

Mr. Small (left) and Mr. Bitar

World Studies II students had a unique opportunity to hear the dispute between Israel and Palestinians discussed. Mr. Ali Bitar, a Palestinian and former resident of Jerusalem and Mr. Jason Small, who went to college in Israel debated and discussed various issues related to the conflict. Below are more quotes and pictures from their talk.

"Mr. Bitar, do you agree with Sadat attacking on Yom Kippur?"- Liana Freedy (under poster, right side)

"After the UN partition, the Arabs rejected the Jews outright."

"The Palestinians should not have accepted the partition plan. They were not treated as a nationality."

Mr. Bitar, would it not have been a lot easier if the Palestinians had just accepted the partition plan to begin with? Krista Larson

"For Egyptians to claim they were not going to attack in 1967 is laughable."

"I have scars and my family members died in the 1967 war. Also, Nasser was our savior."

"Mr. Small, don't you think Israel kind of sucker punched Egypt in 1967 and how do you justify Israel taking over Palestinian houses after the 1967 war?"-Sean Bradley

"It was a brilliant move when Sadat attacked on Yom Kippur. Sadat was a great man because he said 'whatever is taken by force you can only get back by force'"

"Sadat started a war. He attacked Israel. I do not consider him a hero."

How do you think the Messiah would decide this issue? Sandra Carassquillo

"I do regret that we Palestinians did not join Sadat when Sadat made peace with Israel."

"Mr. Small, Anwar Sadat helped Egypt overcome their fears of Israel. Your comments?"- Rich Griffith

"1967 was important because for centuries the Jews were victims. Now, they had achieved a great victory."

Herndon High School World Studies II students observe the discussion.

Mr. Graney joins Mr.Small and Mr. Bitar in their shared dream of a Holy Land in peace.

Averlyn Herring, Jason Small, Rebecca Small and Ali Bitar share a laugh after a fascinating discussion.