An Improbable Friendship

“In the aftermath of the Middle East War of 1967, two prominent women – the wife of Israel’s famed general, and the woman who became Yasser Arafat’s mother-in-law – forged an unlikely friendship. The story of their remarkable relationship is told in a new book An Improbable Friendship. Kevin Connolly went to meet them.” — “The friendship that grew out of war,” BBC News

“There are many powerful men in this riveting book, Moshe Dayan, Yasser Arafat, Ezer Weizman, among others and enough intrigue, violence, and danger to fill a thriller. But the two suns at the center of this illuminating dual biography are women brilliant, passionate, driven feminists whose unique friendship should serve as a model for international relations and people-to-people dialogue. Without downplaying their political, cultural, and religious differences, Anthony David deftly describes what fuels the enduring relationship between Ruth Dayan and Raymonda Tawil their capacity to honor the dignity and aspirations of the other and their indefatigable quest for peace. Had Ruth and Raymonda been in charge, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict would have ended four decades ago. Think about that as you dive into this compelling story.” — Letty Cottin Pogrebin, Ms. Magazine

“With its fascinating details about the relationship between Moshe Dayan s wife and Yasser Arafat’s mother-in-law, “An Improbable Friendship” reminds us of a bygone era when influential Palestinians and Israelis worked together for peace.” — Trudy Rubin, Worldview columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer

“Rich in anecdote and juicy detail, this book demonstrates Dayan’s and Tawil’s creativity, conviction, and courage, offering personal glimpses into major historical events.” — Lilith Magazine

“From their relationship we learn the behind-the-scenes history of the Middle East.” — The Jewish Advocate

“[Dayan] hopes the book offers a sort of case study, through her friendship with Ms. Tawil, of how things could be different.” — Wall Street Journal