Once Upon a Country summary

Struggles of a Nation

In Once Upon a Country by Sari Nusseibeh, we embark on a tumultuous journey through the author's life as a prominent Palestinian intellectual and his relentless quest for peace in the Middle East. Nusseibeh begins by recounting his childhood in Jerusalem, a city deeply rooted in religious and political strife. He describes the impact of the Arab-Israeli conflict on his family and his personal experiences with violence and displacement during the Six-Day War in 1967.

Despite these hardships, Nusseibeh's academic pursuits lead him to Oxford University, where he studies philosophy. This period of intellectual growth and exposure to Western culture significantly shapes his world view. Returning to Jerusalem, Nusseibeh becomes a professor at Birzeit University and continues to engage in the Palestinian struggle for statehood, advocating for non-violent resistance against Israeli occupation.

Advocating for Peace

As Nusseibeh's career progresses, he becomes a key figure in the attempts to broker peace between Israel and Palestine. He is appointed as the PLO's representative in Jerusalem and plays a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Principles, a significant step towards the Oslo Accords. However, the promise of peace quickly fades as the Oslo process falters, leading to increased violence and a hardening of attitudes on both sides.

Undeterred, Nusseibeh co-founds the People's Voice Initiative, a grassroots movement that aims to build trust and understanding between ordinary Israelis and Palestinians. He also continues to advocate for a two-state solution, emphasizing the need for mutual recognition and coexistence. Despite his efforts, the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, with the construction of Israeli settlements and the construction of the separation barrier further complicating the prospects for peace.

The Struggle for Coexistence

In the latter part of Once Upon a Country, Nusseibeh reflects on the failure of the peace process and the increasing polarization between Israelis and Palestinians. He highlights the impact of the Second Intifada and the Israeli military's response on the Palestinian population, leading to a deep sense of despair and hopelessness. Nusseibeh also critiques the Palestinian leadership for its internal divisions and lack of a coherent strategy.

Despite the grim reality, Nusseibeh remains steadfast in his belief in coexistence and the possibility of a peaceful resolution. He argues that both Israelis and Palestinians have legitimate claims to the land and that a fair and just solution must acknowledge these competing narratives. Nusseibeh also emphasizes the importance of education and dialogue in fostering mutual understanding and respect.

A Vision for the Future

In the closing chapters of Once Upon a Country, Nusseibeh presents his vision for the future of the region. He calls for a confederation between Israel and Palestine, where both states coexist peacefully while maintaining their distinct identities. Nusseibeh also stresses the need for a comprehensive resolution of the refugee issue and the status of Jerusalem, two of the most contentious issues in the conflict.

While acknowledging the immense challenges ahead, Nusseibeh remains hopeful that a just and lasting peace is achievable. He urges both Israelis and Palestinians to move beyond their historical grievances and embrace a shared future based on equality, dignity, and respect. In conclusion, Once Upon a Country offers a poignant and insightful perspective on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the enduring quest for peace.