An American-born Jewish woman residing in Israel and a Palestinian woman formed a lifelong friendship after they met at a support group for women dealing with breast cancer, which hosted women from both sides of the border. Their bond has only tightened over the years, despite the political rivalry between their nations. “I basically had to get cancer to be in a room with that many Palestinian women. And they had to get cancer to be in a room with me.” Stated Ruth Ebenstain in a piece for the Atlantic. “Allah did not give me any sisters, but Ruti is really like one.” Says Ibtisam Erekat.