In the midst of the conflict, a Palestinian and a Jewish doctor discover humanity in medicine

When he saw the heartbreaking stories on the news and social media, he was saddened and decided to leave his wife (a trauma surgeon) and their seven-year-old daughter to help strangers.

“It’s an incredible story of resilience and humanity,” he added.

Hasan, who traveled to Israel to see the sites where the attacks took place, says it helped him understand the pain on both sides.

“I was able to deal well with both sides, work together smoothly and build credibility on both sides,” says Hasan.

In addition to medical care, Hasan has also organized efforts to provide medical equipment and supplies, as well as food, water, diapers and other humanitarian assistance.

“The hope is that we as Americans, Palestinians and Israelis move forward together and work on the future, because without that the alternative is terrible,” Hasan said.

Cohen continues his work with APF and also works on other initiatives.

The event begins at 8:30 a.m. on September 16 at the Karsh Alumni & Visitors Center.

Bruce Jentleson, William Preston Few Distinguished Professor of Public Policy and professor of political science, will deliver the opening remarks. Provost Alec Gallimore will deliver the welcome address. The program with Hasan and Cohen begins at 9:15 a.m. and will be moderated by Abbas Benmamoun, vice provost for faculty advancement and professor of Asian and Middle Eastern studies.

Other events as part of the Provost's Initiative on the Middle East this fall include a lecture by Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed, executive director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies and former deputy chief scientist of Israel, on September 18 at the Nicholas School of the Environment and an October 30 lecture by Wa'el Alzayat, CEO of Emgage, a national civic initiative for Americans of Muslim faith, organized by Polis: Center for Politics at the Sanford School of Public Policy.