Israelis from Jewish and Christian communities are working to build trust between their groups, despite tensions between the Vatican and Israel's government over the Gaza war. According to NPR, some individuals are taking steps to foster understanding and cooperation.

The efforts to build trust come as relations between the Vatican and Israel's government remain strained. The Vatican has been critical of Israel's actions in the Gaza war, and the Israeli government has responded with accusations of bias. However, some Israelis from Jewish and Christian backgrounds are seeking to bridge the divide.

One such initiative is the "Hand in Hand" program, which brings together Jewish and Christian students from different backgrounds to learn and work together. According to the program's director, Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger, the goal is to promote understanding and empathy between the two communities. "We want to show that we can work together, that we can be friends, and that we can build a better future for all of us," Rabbi Schlesinger said in an interview with NPR.

Another group, the "Jerusalem Interfaith Encounter" organization, is working to promote dialogue and cooperation between Jewish and Christian leaders. According to the organization's founder, Rabbi David Rosen, the goal is to build trust and understanding between the two communities. "We believe that by working together, we can build a more peaceful and harmonious society," Rabbi Rosen said.

Despite the efforts of these groups, challenges remain. Many Israelis are deeply divided on the issue of the Gaza war, and tensions between the Vatican and Israel's government show no signs of abating. However, for those involved in the "Hand in Hand" and "Jerusalem Interfaith Encounter" programs, the work is worth it.

"We're not naive," Rabbi Schlesinger said. "We know that it's not going to be easy. But we also know that if we don't try, nothing will change." According to Rabbi Rosen, the key to success lies in building personal relationships and trust between individuals. "When people get to know each other, they begin to see that they have more in common than they thought," Rabbi Rosen said.

The efforts to build trust between Jewish and Christian communities in Israel are ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether they will be successful. However, for those involved, the work is a crucial step towards a more peaceful and harmonious society.

Sources:
- NPR Politics: "In Israel, some Jews and Christians seek to build trust between their communities"
- NPR News: "In Israel, some Jews and Christians seek to build trust between their communities"