Rick Steves on Israel and Palestine Today

In the last month, I’ve traveled to both Denver and Palo Alto to share my experiences in the Holy Land and help raise money for Bright Stars of Bethlehem, a nonprofit that promotes peace and justice in Palestine through Bethlehem’s Dar al-Kalima University of Arts & Culture. Policymaking in the US and the Middle East has been impulsive and erratic lately, making it more important than ever for American citizens to reach out and gain a little context on the Holy Land — and that was the focus of my talk.

We don’t need a one-sided narrative about the Holy Land told by someone dug-in on this complicated issue. To understand this situation, we need a “dual-narrative” approach that respects both sides. And that was what I shared in this talk: the lessons I learned by walking with caring people on both sides of the wall that divides this land.

[arfaadlina]

Thank you for giving an honest narrative. It's much needed by the deprived truth seekers who are trying to understand the Palestine Israel issue.

[adriansturrock]

Having read the comments below I'm even more convinced that Rick Steves is an essential voice - though it takes a lot to chip away at embedded prejudices and traditional misinformation.

[paulacaffey]

I just love Rick Steves - a true Spiritual human being who shows us all our shared humanity.

[YSOCERYUS]

Always loved you and knew you would be on the side of justice and humanity

[goldenserenity]

Refreshing to see someone with no bias or agenda. Just an impartial account and appreciation for both sides

[lilninie]

Very much needed especially what's going on now in todays time.

[gauravvarma]

My 3 takeaways:

1. The Sri Lankan Civil war was largely a result of the British importing cheap (darker skinned) Tamil Nadu labor from India to pick their tea leaves, which created a two tiered system after independence
2. The black cylinders you see on the rooftops of Palestinian homes hold water. The blackness absorbs sunlight which boils away the bacteria in the water, the backup storage is there in case Israel chokes off their water supply
3. Orthodox jewish women also cover their hair (specifically, they wear wigs after marriage), but the West only gets outraged when muslim women cover their hair.

I could listen to Rick Steves all day

[mickymiller]

Much respect for Steve. Not afraid to speak the truth.

[viennehaake]

Such a valuable talk. Listening to this again on Dec. 24, 2023 about 6pm- Bethlehem in the West Bank is empty of tourists tonight. Looking at the Palestinians- people just like us- people who want to live in freedom and raise their kids in safety.

[kylenewman]

So glad someone can find and tell the stories of both sides.

[TsarOfRuss]

Dear Mr Rick!!! i think you have achieved your purpose in Thank
now we need to find out own purpose

[EBGBeee]

A really great summary, I think. Always grateful for someone attempting to present a fair assessment. But 1.33 M subscribers, yet 45 k views? Heartbreaking that so many take so little interest.

[EanBHfjDTHQYKnHLRYvfKQ]

I wanted to comment "Rick Steves for Sec. of State." But then I saw all the hateful comments that are getting many thumbs up just because they agree with whatever preconceived ideas the viewers had. But I decided to comment anyway because a country that put freedom of expression at the very top of their bill of rights deserves someone interested in listening and reiterating perspectives. It's true he has formed an opinion, and this is forbidden in American politics, but I challenge anyone to find someone as interested in sitting down and having dinner with someone who has a different perspective.

[TsarOfRuss]

56, 431 VIEWS ONLY ???? Shame on the world, i didnt even think i could listen to 5 minutes of it, but here i am at 25 minutes and still enjoying your honesty

[vivalapalestine]

A Beatiful Presentation
Rick you are an absolute Gem!

[christopherch]

How about revisiting this topic today in 2023.🤔

[kingseanweisser]

am a CHRSTION my wish is to LEARN about MUSLMES

[utapao]

Isaiah 53:5-6
But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:5-6

[pingvuiini]

I never noticed before, but Rick's right shoulder is lower than his left. I checked some of his other travel vids that I've seen countless times and its the same, but its really pronounced on this video.

[WillowRook]

Such an intelligent and well balanced perspective. Well done Rick.