Breaking Bread, Building Bridges: Shared Iftar Events Bring Jews and Arabs Together

Last month, during the holy month of Ramadan, something truly powerful happened across Dror Israel’s associated youth movement branches. Arab branches of HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed (NOAL) extended warm invitations to their Jewish peers and educators to join them for Iftar, the celebratory meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan.

In Jisr al-Zarqa, Muslim, Jewish, and Druze educators from the youth movement gathered to share food, stories, and tradition. Before the meal, guests were treated to a special tour of the local marine activity center, where youth educators explained how the sea is used as an educational tool to teach values like resilience, teamwork, and self-discovery, lessons no classroom could fully offer.

NOAL's leadership gathered for a meaningful Iftar.

Later, over a delicious Iftar meal, branch coordinators and movement leaders offered reflections on the power of shared community, especially in such a difficult and divided time. "I am moved and extend my blessings to everyone," said Hassan, the Jisr al-Zarqa branch coordinator. "I hope that the situation in Israel will look like this evening, where everyone is equal, joyful, and doing so much to make our country a better and more just place for all, especially in times like these."

The Arab teens were excited to host their Jewish peers

Meanwhile, in the Jerusalem area, the Arab youth movement branch in Abu Gosh hosted dozens of Jewish teens from around the central region. For many, it was their first experience taking part in a Ramadan meal. "I didn’t know what to expect!" said Yuval, a Jewish teen from Tel Aviv. "But once I got to know the teens who were hosting us, I felt really comfortable and had a great time. I learned so much and had so much great food!"

More than anything, these evenings reminded everyone present that shared society isn’t an abstract concept, it’s built through real relationships, small moments of trust, and the joy of being together. As one Jewish participant summed it up: “The most meaningful thing wasn’t the food or the speeches, it was the hugs, the laughter, and seeing how happy we were just to be together.”