Balcony Over Jerusalem

An intimate account of the Israel-Palestine conflict and beyond, from one of Australia’s most experienced foreign correspondents.

Now updated with a foreword by Stan Grant and a new author’s note.

‘Lyons knows if you stand with the suffering, you’re closer to the truth’ Stan Grant, award-winning journalist and bestselling author

‘A penetrating analysis of power with empathy for the human story’ Sarah Ferguson, presenter of 7.30

Leading Australian journalist John Lyons takes readers on a fascinating personal journey through the wonders and dangers of the Middle East. In this updated edition, Lyons draws from his years living in Jerusalem to give context to the devastating war between Israel and Palestinians in Gaza and gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at the Israeli occupation of the West Bank.

Having reported on the Middle East for three decades, Lyons has interviewed everyone from senior Israeli military and intelligence figures to key leaders from Hezbollah and Hamas. He’s witnessed the brutal Iranian Revolutionary Guard up close, was kidnapped by Egyptian soldiers, and was one of the last foreign journalists in Iran during the violent crackdown on the ‘Green Revolution’. He’s confronted Hamas officials about why they fire rockets into Israel and Israeli soldiers about why they fire tear gas at Palestinian schoolchildren.

Beyond the politics and headlines, Lyons explains the Middle East through everyday life and experiences: his son’s school, the markets, and the conversations with friends on their balcony overlooking it all. Through Lyons’ incisive reporting, you will develop an empathetic understanding of what brought us to this tragic impasse – and where it’s headed next.

Author Biography

John Lyons is an acclaimed journalist and the Global Affairs Editor at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). With over three decades of experience in international journalism, Lyons has reported from some of the world’s most turbulent regions, including the Middle East and Ukraine. His insightful reporting has earned him numerous awards, including four prestigious Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism and has twice been named Australian Journalist of the Year.

Lyons is known for his deep analysis and compelling storytelling, bringing the human aspects of global conflicts to the forefront. He is the author of Balcony Over Jerusalem, an account of his time in the Middle East covering the Israel-Palestine conflict. His latest work, based on his three trips to cover the Ukraine War, offers a poignant look into the lives of everyday civilians caught in the crossfire, showcasing their resilience and spirit.