The Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs (JCPA) has launched a new initiative called “Speaking the Middle East,” designed specifically for Israeli university students. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for young Israelis from different academic backgrounds to delve deeply into the complexities of the Arab and Islamic world.
The program targets Israeli students, usually in their third year or later, who will have the opportunity to learn from a distinguished faculty that includes Israeli diplomats, journalists, security personnel, and even former government officials.
Notable figures on the program include Jason Greenblatt, former US envoy to the Middle East, and Brig. Gen. Yossi Kuperwasser, who previously headed the research division of the Israel Defense Forces Intelligence Corps.
At the program's opening ceremony, Israeli Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Avi Dichter, stressed the importance of looking beyond language acquisition.
“In addition to learning the Arabic language, it is necessary to understand the Arab mentality, which is different from ours. Students of this new course will have a unique opportunity to do this thanks to the experience of leading specialists in this field. I commend this wonderful initiative, which will enable you to represent Israel honorably in the Arab world.” “.
JCPA created the program after recognizing the growing need for Israeli students to bridge the cultural gap with their Arab neighbors. This need became particularly evident after the outbreak of the current war when the Center actively disseminated information to the international community.
An expert and deputy expert on Middle East affairs said: “With the beginning of the war, the concept changed, and the Arabic language and culture became important and even essential tools for every Israeli, especially those who seek to participate in Israel’s efforts in the Middle East.” JCPA President Aviram Belaish.
He added: “This is particularly necessary to analyze threats and risks in order to understand Middle Eastern thinking, build bridges with countries in the region and expand the historic Abraham Accords.”
Speaking Middle East offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for Israeli students, which includes courses in spoken Arabic, diplomacy, Islamic studies, and international law.
Workshops, field trips, and even an Arab homestay experience are also included. Upon completion of their academic major, graduates will have the opportunity to join the Regional Leadership Program.
The program has attracted more than 40 Israeli students from across the country, representing fields as diverse as Middle Eastern studies, international relations, engineering and computer science.
Khaled Abu Toameh previously Jerusalem Post The Palestinian affairs correspondent and course director, who specializes in Arab society and communication, commented on the unique approach the program offers to Israeli students.
“Participants who join the program will meet and interact directly with Israeli diplomats, journalists, and commentators, as well as from the Arab and Islamic world. At the end of the program, they will not only be able to speak Arabic fluently, but they will also be able to speak Arabic fluently.” Understanding regional thinking.”
What is the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs?
The Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs specializes in politics, diplomacy and communications. Since its establishment in 1976, the JCPA program has evolved from focusing primarily on regional security, strategy, and international law research.
The Center actively works to establish overt and covert strategic partnerships with key figures from Arab and Muslim countries, and remains a pivotal force in the fight against the BDS movement and global anti-Semitism.
