What to Do If Your Loved Ones Support a Palestinian State: A Guide for Concerned Americans

So, it’s happened. Your mom. Your cousin. Maybe even your own kid. Someone in your family has started openly sympathizing with Palestinians. And not just in a “wow, that’s sad” kind of way. No, they’re posting things.They’re asking questions. They might even be quoting Amnesty International.

Breathe. Stay calm. It’s not too late. You can still pull them back before they go full “human rights.” This guide will help you navigate this uncomfortable situation without—God forbid—accidentally learning something.

Step 1: Watch for the Warning Signs

You need to act fast before this turns ifull-blown moral conviction. Here’s what to look for:

• They’ve started using words like apartheid and ethnic cleansing—but not for Hamas.

• They talk about “international law” like that means something.

• They’re bringing up historical context instead of just going with their gut feelings.

• They have concerns about civilian deaths but… all civilian deaths, not just the ones we’re supposed to be sad about.

• They’re suddenly really interested in maps. Never a good sign.

If you see any of these, do not panic—but do not engage. You are not equipped to debate someone who has actually looked into this. Instead, move straight to Step 2.

Step 2: Try to Snap Them Out of It

Okay, intervention time. The goal isn’t to argue with facts (bad idea) but to overwhelm them with vague, emotional rhetoric until they lose the will to continue.

Option 1: “Both Sides” It to Death

Say something like:

“Look, war is complicated. Both sides have done bad things.”

This works because it sounds fair while conveniently ignoring that one side is a nuclear-armed military power and the other is stateless people fighting for survival. If they push back, just repeat “It’s complicated” until they give up.

Option 2: Make It About Muslim Countries

Try:

“If Palestinians are so oppressed, why won’t other Muslim countries take them in?”

This is great because it:

• Shifts blame away from the actual oppressors.

• Implies that Palestinians should just go somewhere else.

• Frames their refusal to leave their homeland as irrational, instead of, you know, a basic human right.

If they mention that Egypt’s blockade is enforced by Israel and the U.S., change the subject.

Option 3: Just Call It a Family Disagreement

When all else fails, shut it down by saying:

“We’re not going to agree, so let’s not bring politics into family conversations.”

This is chef’s kiss because it makes opposing genocide seem as optional as preferring Coke over Pepsi. Just a fun little opinion!

If they point out that ignoring war crimes isn’t “neutral,” congratulations, you’ve lost. Abort mission. Go to Step 3.

Step 3: If They Won’t Shut Up, Use the Family Card

By now, they’re quoting human rights reports and citing UN resolutions. This is extremely dangerous behavior in a family chat. It’s time to remind them that they’re the real problem here.

Try:

“This is a family space, not a political debate.”

“We love each other. We’re not going to tribalize over politics.”

“You’re not changing anyone’s mind, so why bother?”

If that doesn’t work, get someone else—preferably a neutral-sounding relative—to chime in with:

“I love everyone ❤️”

This makes it look like they’re the one being aggressive while you’re just trying to keep the peace. Perfect.

Step 4: Coping With Your Own Discomfort

Let’s be honest—this stuff is exhausting. Thinking about it too much can lead to… complicated feelings. We don’t want that. Here’s how to protect your peace:

• Only consume news from sources that won’t challenge you. Fox, CNN, whatever your uncle watches—stick to the good stuff.

• Tell yourself that being “neutral” is the mature thing to do. Sure, it means letting mass displacement happen, but at least you’re not fighting with family.

• Pray about it. Won’t help the Palestinians, but hey—might make you feel better.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, you’re not going to win over your radicalized relative. They’ve already chosen to care about human suffering. That’s their cross to bear.

But you? You can still make it through this unscathed. Just remember:

• Don’t engage with facts.

• Don’t let them reframe the issue.

• Don’t, under any circumstances, question why you’ve been told not to care.

And if they decide to leave the family chat? Block their posts. Move on. Keep things simple.

Because honestly—isn’t life easier when you just… don’t think about it?