Can Ayahuasca Promote Peace in the Middle East? Conversations with Palestinians and Israelis

Indigenous communities have traditionally used plant medicines to cultivate intergenerational peace and navigate conflict. This study explores the potential of such entheogenic practices to facilitate reconciliation and address trauma among Palestinians and Israelis who participate in Ayahuasca ceremonies together. Emergent thematic findings from these intercultural sessions emphasize personal self-healing and the realization of commonality beyond national or religious identities. Participants report that shared ceremonial space and intention setting promote a shift from fear-based reactions to deeper emotional empathy and connection, providing a blueprint for potential frameworks in conflict transformation.