Invitation to the Iftar
MARCH 16th, 2025. In the heart of Daliat Al Carmel, a Druze village in northern Israel, a remarkable gathering took place, one that symbolized hope, unity, and shared humanity. The Ramadan Iftar, organized by the Abrahamic Reunion, brought together around 200 people from different faiths; Muslims, Druze, and Jews, under one roof, bound by a common desire for peace.
Before the breaking of the fast, voices of wisdom and unity echoed through the hall as religious leaders and social activists took the stage. Hani Ziada opened with a Quranic verse, reflecting on the holiness of Ramadan, a month of forgiveness, kindness, and spiritual closeness to God and one another. He also highlighted the Abrahamic Reunion’s mission, emphasizing the importance of bringing people from different religious backgrounds together.
Sheikh Ihsan Halabi, a judge in the Druze Tribunal Court, blessed the gathering and spoke about the pillars of a strong society, values, principles, traditions, and education. He reminded everyone that true strength lies in unity and coexistence, where people welcome one another as neighbors, fostering safety, security, and mutual respect.
The Mayor of Daliat Al Carmel, Mr. Rafik Halabi, followed with a speech that resonated deeply. He spoke of Abraham, a central figure in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, whose unwavering belief in one God serves as the foundation of the Abrahamic faiths. It was a reminder that despite different traditions, there exists a profound shared history.
Ms. Siham Halabi, a Druze leader and Director of the Women’s Program and Adult Education, spoke passionately about empowerment and togetherness. She described the Iftar as more than just a meal, it was a powerful symbol of unity, where people from different backgrounds come together as one family.
Father Simon Khoury, the patron of Kafr Kanna, reinforced the importance of peace, urging people to recognize that beyond religious differences, they all share faith in one God. “We have more that unites us than separates us,” he said.
Several social activists and community leaders echoed the same message. Prof. Adil Shamali, Anat Lev Or, Abu Razi Jamel Adawi, Ms. Nihad Abzakh, Prof. Abu Kamal Darawcha, and Sheikh Abu Mohamed Iyad Al Hazel all called for unity, stressing that strength comes from standing together. Their words underscored the essence of the evening, solidarity beyond religious divisions.
The gathering also carried a touch of wisdom and storytelling, as Mr. Shihab Al Din, chairman of the Abrahamic Reunion, shared a tale from the court of Emperor Akbar. The story of Birbal, the emperor’s trusted advisor, illustrated the power of intelligence, diplomacy, and careful speech in maintaining both truth and peace. Just as Birbal’s wisdom preserved harmony in Akbar’s court, so too can dialogue and understanding bring people of different faiths together.
Sheikh Ghassan Manasra, International Director of the Abrahamic Reunion, emphasized that events like this Iftar are the antidote to extremism. “When we celebrate our holidays together, we stand as one big, diverse family,” he said.
The evening concluded with the call to prayer by Dr. Imam Khalid Abu Ras, Imam of Al-IMAN Mosque in Ilut. As the Adhan filled the air, signalling the time to break the fast, guests from different backgrounds sat side by side, sharing a meal and a moment of peace.
This Iftar was more than just an event, it was a testament to the power of human connection. It proved that faith does not divide; it unites. In a world often marked by differences, the gathering in Daliat Al Carmel was a beacon of hope, reminding all that when we come together, we are stronger, and our shared humanity shines brightest.
Report by Nacima Kerouad, Abrahamic Reunion Program Administrative Assistant in the Holy Land.
