Peru Offers Israelis a Welcoming Haven Amid Global Alienation

An Israeli author describes a month-long trip to Peru as a restorative experience, contrasting it sharply with the alienation and hostility she and other Israelis have encountered abroad in recent years. The author, Iris Posklinsky, recounts instances of anti-Israel sentiment, including protests in Montreal and the United States, and academic rejections due to Israel's actions in Gaza. She notes that in Montreal, she witnessed a demonstration portraying Israel as a child killer, which she describes as populist propaganda. In the U.S., a colleague faced physical violence and lost his job after attempting to engage with protesters. Posklinsky also shares an experience where a research paper was rejected unless she included a statement acknowledging Israel's alleged genocide in Gaza.

In contrast, Peru offered a sense of acceptance and warmth. Posklinsky and her husband intentionally identified themselves as Israelis, receiving positive reactions. She observed that many young Israelis, particularly recent army veterans, travel to Peru seeking an escape and healing. The author felt a strong parental instinct towards these young Israelis, recognizing their need for solace and a break from the pressures they face.

Posklinsky highlights Peru's vibrant culture and the genuine happiness of its people, which she contrasts with the grief and sorrow she feels Israelis have been experiencing. She notes that unlike in Europe, where anti-Israel graffiti is common, Peru seemed free of such sentiments. The author and her husband made an effort to be positive ambassadors for Israel, removing any negative stickers they found and engaging warmly with locals. She suggests that while global news is not a major focus for Peruvians, this lack of awareness can be beneficial in reducing tension, though she acknowledges that propaganda could eventually reach the country.

She concludes that Peru is a welcoming destination for Israelis, offering a place to feel pride in their identity without fear. Despite potentially higher travel costs than to Europe, the affordability of the stay makes it a viable option. Posklinsky encourages other Israelis traveling abroad to act as positive representatives of their country, emphasizing that Peru provides fertile ground for such efforts due to its generally welcoming atmosphere.