In the heart of the occupied West Bank, the centuries-old tradition of Nabulsi soap-making persists despite the escalating tensions and looming presence of Israeli forces. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, this olive oil-based soap symbolizes Palestinian resilience, craftsmanship, and cultural identity—even as the threat of displacement and military incursions grows.

A Centuries-Old Craft Under Threat

Nabulsi soap, named after the city of Nablus, has been produced since the 14th century. Made from olive oil, water, and sodium compounds, the soap is renowned for its purity, medicinal properties, and distinctive fragrance. For generations, Palestinian families have passed down the art of soap-making, turning it into both a cultural emblem and an economic lifeline.

However, as Israeli forces tighten their grip on the West Bank, raids, checkpoints, and restrictions on movement have made it increasingly difficult for artisans to source materials and export their products. Factories that once flourished now operate under the constant shadow of military occupation.

UNESCO Recognition: A Symbol of Resistance

In 2023, UNESCO added traditional soap-making in Palestine to its Intangible Cultural Heritage List, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. For Palestinians, this recognition was not just about preserving a craft—it was an act of cultural resistance against erasure.

“Every bar of Nabulsi soap carries our history,” says Mohammed al-Masri, a third-generation soap maker in Nablus. “Even with soldiers at our doors, we refuse to let this tradition die.”

Yet, the UNESCO designation has not shielded the industry from the realities of occupation. Israeli-imposed restrictions on Palestinian agriculture—particularly olive harvesting—have disrupted the supply of high-quality olive oil, a key ingredient. Meanwhile, frequent military operations in Nablus and nearby villages have forced some workshops to shut down temporarily, risking the loss of irreplaceable knowledge.

Soap-Making as Survival

Despite these challenges, Palestinian soap makers continue their work, adapting to shortages and finding new ways to sustain their trade. Some have turned to social media and international fair-trade networks to sell their products, while others rely on local markets to keep the tradition alive.

For many, the act of making Nabulsi soap has become a quiet but powerful form of sumud (steadfastness)—a refusal to surrender their heritage even as their land is encroached upon.

International Solidarity and the Future

Global supporters of Palestinian rights have increasingly sought out Nabulsi soap as a way to ethically support Palestinian businesses. Campaigns urging consumers to buy Palestinian-made goods have given the industry a lifeline, but artisans say long-term survival depends on ending the occupation.

As Israeli forces continue their operations in the West Bank, the fate of Nabulsi soap—and the people who make it—remains uncertain. Yet, for now, the fires still burn in the old factories of Nablus, and the scent of olive oil soap lingers in the air, a testament to a culture that refuses to disappear.

Conclusion

Nabulsi soap is more than just a product—it is a living heritage under siege. As Palestinians fight to preserve their identity amid occupation, the survival of this UNESCO-listed craft serves as a reminder of their enduring connection to their land and history. The world must not only appreciate this tradition but also recognize the conditions that threaten its existence.

“They can occupy our land, but they will never erase our culture,” says al-Masri, shaping yet another bar of soap, each one a small act of defiance.

What You Can Do:

• Support Palestinian artisans by purchasing authentic Nabulsi soap.
• Raise awareness about the impact of occupation on Palestinian cultural heritage.
• Advocate for policies that protect indigenous crafts and livelihoods.

[Your Name] is a journalist covering Middle Eastern affairs and cultural preservation. Follow for more stories on resistance and heritage.