https://nationalpost.com/opinion/im-a-muslim-and-i-love-israel-heres-why
How did I, as a Pakistani-born Canadian Muslim, get so fascinated by Israel that I’ve travelled there 13 times? (The last time I was there an immigration officer asked me, “and where is your Israeli passport?”) It could be that Israel is one of the best-kept secrets in the world.
Growing up in Pakistan, I noted hate toward two entities — India and Israel. This was not a new phenomenon. When Pakistan was created in 1947, its founder clearly said Pakistan would not recognize Israel until the Palestinian issue was resolved.
I knew no different because no one spoke about Israel and Jews. But my father, who was an army doctor, always encouraged me to read and think outside the box. He instilled in me the concept of inquiry. I could discuss my questions with him, and he would give me an alternate point of view.
How did I, as a Pakistani-born Canadian Muslim, get so fascinated by Israel that I’ve travelled there 13 times? (The last time I was there an immigration officer asked me, “and where is your Israeli passport?”) It could be that Israel is one of the best-kept secrets in the world.
Growing up in Pakistan, I noted hate toward two entities — India and Israel. This was not a new phenomenon. When Pakistan was created in 1947, its founder clearly said Pakistan would not recognize Israel until the Palestinian issue was resolved.
I knew no different because no one spoke about Israel and Jews. But my father, who was an army doctor, always encouraged me to read and think outside the box. He instilled in me the concept of inquiry. I could discuss my questions with him, and he would give me an alternate point of view.
