If you’ve ever wondered why people keep talking about Palestine, or the point of keeping up with a long-drawn conflict in the Middle East and what difference you could possibly make, this book is for you. Political researcher and podcaster Walid Jumblatt Abdullah takes on questions that Singaporeans have often raised about Palestine, laying out answers that clarify and inform.
Walid examines myths (“Could Gaza Have Been Singapore?”) and sheds light on the double standards of Western powers, to whom human rights seem to matter, except for where Palestine is concerned. Explaining how the Palestinians have been systematically dehumanised for decades, the book highlights how they continue to exist nevertheless, their very existence an act of resistance.
Why Palestine? is an illuminating starting point for newcomers to the issue, and a passionate primer that seasoned activists will welcome for capturing the heart and hope of a long-disenfranchised people and those who support them.
“In his characteristic way of bringing political issues to the mainstream—making them less taboo, easier to understand, yet still politically astute—Prof. Walid Jumblatt offers a deeply personal yet politically incisive exploration of the Palestinian struggle. Drawing from his firsthand experiences in the West Bank, his extensive academic expertise and the conversations he’s had with Singaporeans through Teh Tarik With Walid, he addresses pressing questions about the Israel-Palestine conflict with clarity and moral courage.
Written for a Singaporean audience but resonant far beyond, this book dismantles media narratives, highlights global double standards and underscores why Palestine has long been a cause close to the hearts of Muslims and the Global South. Prof. Walid weaves together history, politics and faith to provide readers with a nuanced and accessible perspective on the most defining humanitarian crisis of our time.
Whether you’re well-versed in the subject or just beginning to engage with it, this book is a necessary read—an invitation to understand, to reflect and, ultimately, to stand for justice.”
—Ameera Aslam, Bestselling Author, Poet and Activist
“It's clear that Walid Jumblatt Adullah’s insights into the Palestinian struggle are not only deeply informed but also passionately human. Why Palestine? is a rare, essential read that challenges readers to look beyond the headlines and think critically about a conflict that has spanned generations. This book is not just an academic work; it is an invitation to care, engage and stand in solidarity with a people whose hope and resilience continue to inspire. If you’ve ever wondered why Palestine matters or how you, from Singapore or anywhere, can make a difference, Why Palestine? is the perfect starting point.”
—Anthea Ong, Former Nominated Member of Parliament; Social Entrepreneur and Advocate; Co-Chair, Palestinian Scholarship Initiative
“Incredibly comprehensive, honest, clear, heartfelt, balanced… Perfect for anyone still struggling to articulate their thoughts and position on Palestine.”
—Oon Shu An, Actor and Writer
“Professor Walid Jumblatt’s timely book is a MUST read for everyone who cares about Palestine and justice. It is written with passion, power and truth.”
—Dr Ang Swee Chai, Author of From Beirut to Jerusalem; Co-Founder of Medical Aid for Palestinians; Orthopaedic Surgeon
Walid Jumblatt Abdullah is an Associate Professor at the Public Policy and Global Affairs Program, Nanyang Technological University. He works on relationships between Islam and the state, political Islam, and political parties and elections, with a special focus on Singapore and Malaysia. Walid has been promoting political awareness amongst younger Singaporeans, having starting initiatives such as his Instagram Live series called Teh Tarik With Walid, where he has discussions with politicians, policymakers and influencers, in a bid to make politics more accessible.
