A Borrowed Identity

Eyad receives acceptance into a prestigious Israeli school, marking a significant milestone in his education. His father drives him to Jerusalem, offering wise words about the importance of coexistence and dignity in their lives.

Upon arriving at his new school, Eyad quickly faces challenges as his Israeli classmates ridicule him, calling him 'Ayid.' This derogatory nickname underscores the difficulties he must overcome as a Palestinian in a predominantly Israeli environment.

Everything changes for Eyad when he meets Naomi, a fellow student, while helping her with her chemistry studies. Their bond grows as they frequently meet at a local café, sparking a promising relationship despite external tensions.

Eyad is paired with Yonatan, a disabled Israeli teenager, who also feels alienated. They develop a deep friendship, providing mutual support as they navigate the complexities of their worlds.

Despite the animosity from some of his peers, Eyad excels in his studies, earning respect among his classmates. He also taps into his entrepreneurial spirit by selling falafel and bagels, securing his place in the school community.

Tension escalates during an outing when an Israeli soldier overhears Eyad profess his love for Naomi in Arabic. This confrontation highlights the precarious nature of their relationship against the backdrop of cultural and political strife.

Naomi reveals in English class that she is in a relationship with a Palestinian boy, leading her parents to prohibit her from attending school. This decision strains Eyad's heart and their relationship as he feels powerless to help.

In a bold act of love, Eyad decides to drop out of school and asks the principal to inform Naomi's family of his choice. His selfless act is meant to protect her, but it also leads to his father's anger and disapproval.

After the fallout with his father, Eyad moves to a flat in East Jerusalem, seeking independence. He faces numerous job rejections until he finally finds work as a dishwasher, indicating the harsh realities of his new life.

As Eyad adjusts to his new life, Yonatan's health deteriorates, leaving him unable to move. Recognizing Eyad's potential, Yonatan's mother invites Eyad to stay with them to help care for her son.

In a moment of desperation, Eyad takes Yonatan's Israeli ID to work as a waiter. Although this deception is soon discovered by Yonatan's mother, she agrees to let him continue as long as he keeps his true identity a secret.

Utilizing Yonatan's ID, Eyad takes and excels in Yonatan's final exams. This achievement represents hope for both of their futures and shows Eyad's determination to succeed against the odds.

As pressures mount, Naomi enlists in the Israeli Defense Forces and shares her frustrations about their relationship with Eyad. This decision weighs heavily on both of them, as it illustrates the widening chasm created by their circumstances.

Tragedy strikes when Yonatan passes away, leaving Eyad in grief. He reports Yonatan's death to the Muslim authorities, grappling with the loss while trying to honor his friend's memory.

Together with Yonatan's mother, Eyad attends Yonatan's funeral, a bittersweet moment filled with shared sorrow. The story concludes on a poignant note, highlighting their profound loss and the connections forged throughout their journey.