“When I was 15, I participated in a hunger strike in prison for 16 days. That was my introduction to non-violence, and it was my first time experiencing a potent energy.” –Sulaiman Khatib, 2024.

Breaking the cycle of violence requires profound transformation. For Sulaiman Khatib, this transformation unfolded in an Israeli prison, where he spent a decade after being arrested for resisting oppression. Despite enduring torture, he emerged with a powerful idea: the principle of non-violent resistance. The prison, called “the university” by inmates, became a beacon of learning. They studied Hebrew, explored texts from the Israeli perspective, and learned about successful resistance movements. Upon his release, Sulaiman connected with like-minded individuals from both communities, fostering empathy for the other’s trauma and recognizing the power of non-violence. Together, they established ‘Combatants for Peace’, a pioneering organization transcending borders, language, prejudice, and hate. Find out more about their inspiring work here.