I conducted an exclusive interview with a pastor who works in the care and support of Muslim refugees in Brazil. For security reasons and to preserve his identity, he will be identified only by the initials RMB.

Below is a brief résumé highlighting his background and experience:

Education and Academic Experience

RMB holds degrees in Theology from two institutions. He has furthered his studies through various courses focused on the language, culture, geography, politics, and religion of Middle Eastern peoples.

International Experience

He has undertaken study visits and cultural immersion in four countries of the region: Egypt, Jordan, Israel, and Turkey.

Q1. Mr. RMB, how do you reconcile your support for Israel with your work welcoming Muslim refugees? Is it possible to love and respect Arabs and Muslims while defending the Jewish people?

RMB: I try to separate the issues. They are distinct needs, and both require our attention. Supporting Israel is important for several reasons. First, Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, providing stability to the region. Second, Israel seeks integration, racial equality, and coexistence with its Arab and Muslim neighbors; it is welcoming, principled, and values life. Third, Israel’s technology and innovations benefit the entire world. Fourth, Israel has faced constant attacks from fundamentalist groups, conflicts, hostilities, and media wars in recent decades, years, months, and weeks. Finally, Israel is going through moments of anguish and uncertainty.

At the same time, it is essential to welcome refugees, regardless of whether they are Muslim. Thousands are victims of undemocratic systems, ideologies, totalitarian regimes, wars, conflicts, and persecution. Many flee with only the clothes on their backs, without documents, losing family, homes, dignity, and hope. They lose everything. That is why we must offer care and support to those in refuge, regardless of ethnicity or religion. It is a matter of humanity. Yes, it is possible to love and respect Arabs and Muslims while defending the Jewish people. With knowledge, education, empathy, discernment, and balance, it is possible to reconcile both commitments.

Q2. In the coverage by major Brazilian newspapers, it often seems there is a dichotomy: either one stands with the Jews or with the Arabs. Do you believe this view is simplistic? How do you deal with that narrative?

RMB: Yes, to me it is a simplistic view, reducing complex issues to overly simple or vague explanations. Since the conflict between Jews and Arabs, or between Israel and Arab and Muslim countries, is very complex, I make sure to carefully analyze the facts and consult reliable sources before taking a position or expressing an opinion, whether on the Jewish side or the Arab side. When dealing with these two groups, it is essential to examine the facts........

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