Zach is a Jewish historian of Palestine who received his Ph.D in Near Eastern Studies from Princeton University. He grew up in a very Jewish and Zionist environment — he was in Jewish youth groups, went to Jewish summer camp, and studied abroad in Jerusalem. Jews are 0.2% of the global population and anti-Zionist Jews an even smaller percentage, so Zach’s perspective and expertise are both unique and urgently needed during this time.

Zach provides ample historical context on Palestine and Israel and points to the fact that for much of history, Jews, Muslims, and Christians lived side by side without problems. We discuss the importance of nomenclature especially when it comes to defining what Palestinian even means. Zach asserts that to want Palestinian liberation is not antisemitic, that we must keep engaging in conversations with those who see things differently, and that the tides are turning. 

I am reminded once again that change takes time — years if not decades, and I derive so much hope from people like Zach who are leading the way in teaching us, even as it means clashing with his own community. 

Learn more from Zach through his Instagram, Palestine Nexus website, and upcoming Palestine-Israel 101 course. 

Please enjoy the scholarly and enlightening — Dr. Zachary Foster.