927: Miko Peled | Journey of an Israeli in Palestine

Family Legacy

Miko Peled grew up in a family deeply embedded in the founding of Israel. His father was a general in the 1967 war, and his extended family included prominent figures like a president and a signatory of the Declaration of Independence 1. This upbringing instilled a strong sense of patriotism in him, but cracks began to form in his perception of Israeli history as he learned about events like the ethnic cleansing in West Jerusalem 2.

My mother refused a home offered to her because it belonged to Palestinians who were kicked out. This story didn't make sense to me as a kid because it was contrary to the heroism narrative I was led to believe.

--- Miko Peled

These early experiences laid the groundwork for his eventual shift in perspective.

   

Military Service

Military service was another pivotal aspect of Miko's life. Initially, he was enthusiastic about serving in the IDF, but his experiences during the invasion of Lebanon in 1982 drastically altered his views 3. He realized that the military actions were more about enforcing occupation than defending the nation 4.

We were not doing anything that had to do with defending anybody. We were trampling on people's land and patrolling cities that didn't want us.

--- Miko Peled

This disillusionment was a significant turning point in his journey towards activism.

   

Political Awakening

Miko's political awakening was influenced by his father's outspoken views and his own experiences. His father, once a national hero, became a pariah for advocating Palestinian rights 5. Miko also began to see Zionism as a fundamentally racist ideology that needed to be challenged 6.

If we believe in zero tolerance to racism, Zionism should not have a room anywhere because it's a racist ideology.

--- Miko Peled

This realization pushed him to question the very foundations of Israeli governance and society.

   

Activism and Advocacy

A tragic event in 1997, when his niece was killed in a Palestinian attack, was a catalyst for Miko's activism. This personal loss led him to engage deeply with the Palestinian community in San Diego, where he found mentorship and a new perspective 7. He began to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need to stop killing civilians on both sides 8.

We should stop killing all civilians. We should, by all means, allow the refugees to return and dismantle the apartheid state.

--- Miko Peled

This advocacy became a central part of his life, driving his efforts for peace and justice.