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The Neck and the Sword: Palestine's Unfinished Struggle
A remarkable set of conversations between two towering activists for Palestinian liberation
In The Neck and the Sword, Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali bring to bear the lessons learned from a lifetime of political engagement and study in order to comprehend a sea change in Middle East politics. Since 2023, the world has witnessed the decimation of Gaza, the slaughter of its residents, and the terrorization of Palestinians in the West Bank. As a consequence, support for the Palestinian struggle, which for decades has been shunned and maligned, has swelled to an unprecedented level across the US, Europe, and beyond. What future now awaits Palestine?
This frank and sober discussion provides an essential overview of Palestinian intellectual and political history. There is biting criticism of US foreign policy, as well as insightful geopolitical analysis. Refusing to shy away from controversy, Khalidi and Ali discuss issues as wide-ranging as Palestinian resistance strategy, the failures of neighboring Arab states to support Palestine, and Western complicity in the ongoing genocide. This is crucial reading for anyone committed to Palestinian liberation.
In The Neck and the Sword, Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali bring to bear the lessons learned from a lifetime of political engagement and study in order to comprehend a sea change in Middle East politics. Since 2023, the world has witnessed the decimation of Gaza, the slaughter of its residents, and the terrorization of Palestinians in the West Bank. As a consequence, support for the Palestinian struggle, which for decades has been shunned and maligned, has swelled to an unprecedented level across the US, Europe, and beyond. What future now awaits Palestine?
This frank and sober discussion provides an essential overview of Palestinian intellectual and political history. There is biting criticism of US foreign policy, as well as insightful geopolitical analysis. Refusing to shy away from controversy, Khalidi and Ali discuss issues as wide-ranging as Palestinian resistance strategy, the failures of neighboring Arab states to support Palestine, and Western complicity in the ongoing genocide. This is crucial reading for anyone committed to Palestinian liberation.
160 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2026
About the author
Rashid Khalidi
36 books1,022 followersRashid Ismail Khalidi (Arabic: رشيد إسماعيل خالدي; born 18 November 1948) is a Palestinian-American historian of the Middle East and the Edward Said Professor Emeritus of Modern Arab Studies at Columbia University. He served as editor of the Journal of Palestine Studies from 2002 until 2020, when he became co-editor with Sherene Seikaly.
He has authored a number of books, including The Hundred Years' War on Palestine and Palestinian Identity: The Construction of Modern National Consciousness; has served as president of the Middle East Studies Association; and has taught at the Lebanese University, the American University of Beirut, Georgetown University, and the University of Chicago.
For his work on the Middle East, Professor Khalidi has received fellowships and grants from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Ford Foundation, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, the American Research Center in Egypt, and the Rockefeller Foundation, among others.
In October 2010, Khalidi delivered the annual Edward Said memorial lecture at the Palestine Center in Washington. He is the Edward Said Professor Emeritus of Modern Arab Studies at Colombia University. On October 8, 2024, Khalidi retired from Columbia University citing the university's crackdown on pro-Palestinian student protests, which he had vocally supported, and the transformation of the university into a "hedge fund-cum-real estate operation, with a minor sideline in education" as reasons for his retirement.
He has authored a number of books, including The Hundred Years' War on Palestine and Palestinian Identity: The Construction of Modern National Consciousness; has served as president of the Middle East Studies Association; and has taught at the Lebanese University, the American University of Beirut, Georgetown University, and the University of Chicago.
For his work on the Middle East, Professor Khalidi has received fellowships and grants from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Ford Foundation, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, the American Research Center in Egypt, and the Rockefeller Foundation, among others.
In October 2010, Khalidi delivered the annual Edward Said memorial lecture at the Palestine Center in Washington. He is the Edward Said Professor Emeritus of Modern Arab Studies at Colombia University. On October 8, 2024, Khalidi retired from Columbia University citing the university's crackdown on pro-Palestinian student protests, which he had vocally supported, and the transformation of the university into a "hedge fund-cum-real estate operation, with a minor sideline in education" as reasons for his retirement.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Two very old dudes talk in a quite freeform manner about the crushing of everything they'd ever hoped for but find hope in the youth - both depressing and heartening.
November 9, 2026
An absolutely brilliant short book (or pamphlet) by two of the foremost intellectual, scholars and activists in the Pro-Palestinian struggle in the West. I did not expect the book to take the form of a series of discussions between the co-authors, and was a little disappointed at first as I felt uncles Tariq Ali and Rashid Khalidi had essentially sold me a podcast! But the format is actually brilliant because it allowed both the authors to engage in discussion with one another and ask follow up questions and bounce off each other in a way that allowed them to truly shine. The interviews being dated and referring to recent events in Israel's genocidal campaign against the Palestinians, also allows for very current and recent affairs (at the time of the discussion) to be discussed, such as Trump's 'ceasefire' deal, Israels war crimes in Lebanon, and the US's ill conceived war on Iran.
The book covers a range of topics including the complicity or helplessness of the Arab regimes surrounding Israel in the face of the genocide, the Arab Revolt, the USSR's support for Israel, the fact that negotiations never ever allowed for Palestinian statehood, independence and self determination, the unique nature of the Zionist Project and many other things.
I learned a lot from this book, but ultimately I pray that I not only read but do whatever small acts I can to be a infinitely small part of the campaign for a free Palestine.
The book covers a range of topics including the complicity or helplessness of the Arab regimes surrounding Israel in the face of the genocide, the Arab Revolt, the USSR's support for Israel, the fact that negotiations never ever allowed for Palestinian statehood, independence and self determination, the unique nature of the Zionist Project and many other things.
I learned a lot from this book, but ultimately I pray that I not only read but do whatever small acts I can to be a infinitely small part of the campaign for a free Palestine.
November 8, 2026
Two of the most eloquent authorities on Palestine in 3 discussions, one from May 10, 2024, another from January 9, 2026 and the final from May 1, 2026. It's equivalent to being a silent observer to two friends at a coffee house discussing the most up to date developments and summariving the state of the Palestinian resistance to the present. It's an incredibly well-written summary that covers a lot of ground in a short period of time. However, if you've been following the events alll along there is not a lot of new information to be gained here. Their views on particular elements such as the future of Palestinian resistance gave no clear predictions But it was interesting to hear their opinions on the various resistance groups and encouraging to see they still cling to hope for the future. The belief that no occupying power has ever unseated a native population and that this will be no different in Palestine was present throughout.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC from NetGalley
A quick, engaging read full of incredibly helpful analysis of the last few years. It was interesting to see the evolution of Khalidi's and Ali's perspectives between conversations; from May 2024 to January 2026, and then to May 2026. Their extensive knowledge of Middle Eastern and Asian politics, as well as decades of direct involvement, make their conversation incredibly illuminating even to people who have been following the news closely for the last several years. Though the title of course centers Palestine, much of the most helpful analysis for me came from their discussion of the wider network of alliances and rivalries in the region, situating Arab and Muslim countries' support for Palestine and abstention from more direct involvement within the context of the various interests at play. I don't entirely agree with all of the analysis, but all the thought processes and rationales are clearly explained, and even the positions I would dispute are well reasoned and thought provoking.
A quick, engaging read full of incredibly helpful analysis of the last few years. It was interesting to see the evolution of Khalidi's and Ali's perspectives between conversations; from May 2024 to January 2026, and then to May 2026. Their extensive knowledge of Middle Eastern and Asian politics, as well as decades of direct involvement, make their conversation incredibly illuminating even to people who have been following the news closely for the last several years. Though the title of course centers Palestine, much of the most helpful analysis for me came from their discussion of the wider network of alliances and rivalries in the region, situating Arab and Muslim countries' support for Palestine and abstention from more direct involvement within the context of the various interests at play. I don't entirely agree with all of the analysis, but all the thought processes and rationales are clearly explained, and even the positions I would dispute are well reasoned and thought provoking.
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July 3, 2026The Neck and the Sword: Palestine's Unfinished Struggle is a compelling and intellectually rigorous conversation that brings together two of the most respected voices on Palestinian history, politics, and the modern Middle East. Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali combine decades of scholarship, political engagement, and historical insight to offer readers a thoughtful examination of one of the defining geopolitical issues of our time.
Rather than focusing exclusively on current events, the book places today's crisis within a much broader historical framework. By tracing the evolution of Palestinian political thought, regional dynamics, colonial legacies, and international power, the authors help readers understand how the present has been shaped by generations of political decisions and historical developments.
The conversational format makes the work especially engaging. Their dialogue feels both spontaneous and deeply informed, allowing complex ideas to unfold naturally while encouraging readers to think critically about history, diplomacy, resistance, and international politics. The discussion never oversimplifies difficult issues, instead acknowledging the many competing forces that continue to shape the region.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its willingness to confront challenging questions. Khalidi and Ali examine the evolution of Palestinian political strategy, the role of regional governments, the influence of global powers, and the future of the Middle East with honesty and intellectual depth. Whether readers agree with every conclusion or not, the conversation consistently rewards careful reflection.
The writing is clear, accessible, and remarkably concise. Despite covering complex historical and political subjects, the authors maintain a style that welcomes both newcomers and readers already familiar with Middle Eastern history.
The Neck and the Sword is an important contribution to contemporary political history and international affairs. It provides valuable historical context, encourages informed discussion, and reminds readers that understanding today's conflicts requires careful attention to the long historical forces that continue to shape them.
Rather than focusing exclusively on current events, the book places today's crisis within a much broader historical framework. By tracing the evolution of Palestinian political thought, regional dynamics, colonial legacies, and international power, the authors help readers understand how the present has been shaped by generations of political decisions and historical developments.
The conversational format makes the work especially engaging. Their dialogue feels both spontaneous and deeply informed, allowing complex ideas to unfold naturally while encouraging readers to think critically about history, diplomacy, resistance, and international politics. The discussion never oversimplifies difficult issues, instead acknowledging the many competing forces that continue to shape the region.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its willingness to confront challenging questions. Khalidi and Ali examine the evolution of Palestinian political strategy, the role of regional governments, the influence of global powers, and the future of the Middle East with honesty and intellectual depth. Whether readers agree with every conclusion or not, the conversation consistently rewards careful reflection.
The writing is clear, accessible, and remarkably concise. Despite covering complex historical and political subjects, the authors maintain a style that welcomes both newcomers and readers already familiar with Middle Eastern history.
The Neck and the Sword is an important contribution to contemporary political history and international affairs. It provides valuable historical context, encourages informed discussion, and reminds readers that understanding today's conflicts requires careful attention to the long historical forces that continue to shape them.
October 27, 2026
I loved the interview format of this book. A set of conversations between Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali held on three different occasions. The first interview took place in May 2024 with the second interview on January 2026 and the last on May 2026. It was interesting to see how their thoughts changed over the time periods especially with the fact that now the war includes Iran. The writing was done so anyone no matter how much they know about the tensions and history between Israel and Palestine would come away with a better understanding of the actions taking place in that region. The discussion on the public perception of this war and the responsibility the United States has for the actions of Israel is important.
This was a very informative read and crucial read in the times we are living today.
Thank you, Rashid Khalidi, Tariq Ali and Verso Books for providing the e-ARC via NetGalley for review.
This was a very informative read and crucial read in the times we are living today.
Thank you, Rashid Khalidi, Tariq Ali and Verso Books for providing the e-ARC via NetGalley for review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A very important book to read in our current times.
It is very easy to read and follow the events, the language is accessible, english is not my first language and I didn’t have a hard time undertanding everything.
It captivated me from the start because I’m someone who thinks that if we want to see a change in the world we must do the work, read and inform ourselves about everything, even if it’s not about our country or even continent.
The book is stuctured so well in 3 conversations that the authors had. The genocide in Gaza is something that everyone should read about and be informed, I really recommend this book. The book also touches other topics like the Isrel-US war in Iran and the shift in public support for Israel.
✨ARC from NetGalley✨
It is very easy to read and follow the events, the language is accessible, english is not my first language and I didn’t have a hard time undertanding everything.
It captivated me from the start because I’m someone who thinks that if we want to see a change in the world we must do the work, read and inform ourselves about everything, even if it’s not about our country or even continent.
The book is stuctured so well in 3 conversations that the authors had. The genocide in Gaza is something that everyone should read about and be informed, I really recommend this book. The book also touches other topics like the Isrel-US war in Iran and the shift in public support for Israel.
✨ARC from NetGalley✨
September 26, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Verso Books for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
“The Neck and the Sword” is a series of three conversations between Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali that took place throughout Israel’s genocide in Palestine.
I enjoyed the extensive knowledge of the speakers of the region and its history and think that this is a worthwhile read for those looking to learn more about Palestine. However I did think that I would have enjoyed listening to this conversation more than reading it, and I also think this conversation meanders a bit at times and strays from the description of the book. I didn’t mind this, but certain readers may lose interest.
“The Neck and the Sword” is a series of three conversations between Rashid Khalidi and Tariq Ali that took place throughout Israel’s genocide in Palestine.
I enjoyed the extensive knowledge of the speakers of the region and its history and think that this is a worthwhile read for those looking to learn more about Palestine. However I did think that I would have enjoyed listening to this conversation more than reading it, and I also think this conversation meanders a bit at times and strays from the description of the book. I didn’t mind this, but certain readers may lose interest.
September 19, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
This book, while being a conversation between Tariq Ali and Rashid Khalidi, I feel, also invites the reader to take part in the discussion with them. It leaves space to engage with the asked questions and shows the importance of having such in depth discussions in today's world.
While I don’t agree with some points, there must be said that both Tariq Ali and Rashid Khalidi hold extensive knowledge about Palestine, the politics of the Arab countries as well as the involvement of the Western countries in the establishing of the illegitimate state of Israel and funding its genocide of the Palestinian people. The conversations held in May 2024, January 2026 and May 2026, among many things, show how their perspectives about some things changed, what turned out to be different (e.g. the USA attacking Iran or the renewed Israeli occupation of Southern Lebanon), how the public’s opinion on Israel irrevocably changed, how the European and some of the Arab governments are holding tightly to the USA and refuse to cut ties with Israel.
The interview format also makes the book easy to follow and good for people who are just starting to educate themselves about the world politics and Palestine.
Thank you to NetGalley and Verso Books (US) for providing me with the eARC!
This book, while being a conversation between Tariq Ali and Rashid Khalidi, I feel, also invites the reader to take part in the discussion with them. It leaves space to engage with the asked questions and shows the importance of having such in depth discussions in today's world.
While I don’t agree with some points, there must be said that both Tariq Ali and Rashid Khalidi hold extensive knowledge about Palestine, the politics of the Arab countries as well as the involvement of the Western countries in the establishing of the illegitimate state of Israel and funding its genocide of the Palestinian people. The conversations held in May 2024, January 2026 and May 2026, among many things, show how their perspectives about some things changed, what turned out to be different (e.g. the USA attacking Iran or the renewed Israeli occupation of Southern Lebanon), how the public’s opinion on Israel irrevocably changed, how the European and some of the Arab governments are holding tightly to the USA and refuse to cut ties with Israel.
The interview format also makes the book easy to follow and good for people who are just starting to educate themselves about the world politics and Palestine.
Thank you to NetGalley and Verso Books (US) for providing me with the eARC!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews