In this poignant episode of The Promised Land podcast, research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Mariam Wahba shares her deeply personal reflections on the tragic murder of her friend, Yaron Lischinsky, and Sarah Milgram, murdered by an anti-Israel fanatic in Washington, DC. Mariam recounts her shock at learning of their deaths, an event that seemed inevitable in the face of rising anti-Semitic and anti-American sentiment. As she navigates the complexities of grief and loss, she also underscores the urgent need for the West to confront the reality of globalized anti-Semitism, a growing threat that extends far beyond mere rhetoric.
From her experience growing up in Egypt as a Christian, Mariam provides unique insights into the persistent anti-Semitism and hostility faced by minorities in the Middle East. She delves into the complicated relationship between Egypt, Israel, and Gaza, shedding light on Egypt’s political calculus and the delicate balance it must maintain with its neighbor. Throughout the conversation, Mariam calls for greater awareness, solidarity, and action in confronting the rising tide of extremism and preserving the shared values of Western civilization.