Lex Fridman Podcast #391 – Mohammed El-Kurd: Palestine
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Jul 24, 2023 
Mohammed El-Kurd, a passionate Palestinian writer and poet, shares insights from his activism and advocacy work. He discusses the historical and ongoing struggles faced by families in Sheikh Jarrah, highlighting the emotional toll of displacement. The conversation dives into the Nakba's impact on Palestinian identity and the critique of double standards in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. El-Kurd emphasizes the role of humor and resilience amidst tragedy, illustrating the strength of the Palestinian spirit in their quest for justice.
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Sheikh Jarrah Expulsions
- El-Kurd's family, refugees from the 1948 Nakba, settled in Sheikh Jarrah in 1956.
- Settler organizations began claiming their home in the 1970s, leading to multiple expulsion orders.
Israel's Occupation of Palestine
- El-Kurd highlights the misconception of Israel and Palestine as separate warring nations.
- He emphasizes that Israel exists on top of Palestine, with East Jerusalem under Israeli occupation.
Home Demolitions in Silwan
- Palestinians in Silwan face home demolitions due to Israel's discriminatory building permit system.
- El-Kurd points out the 95% rejection rate for Palestinian building permits, highlighting systematic displacement.
