A vocal critic of what he describes as Israel's "racist" and "apartheid" treatment of Palestinians, Atwan has advocated a peaceful, non-violent settlement to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. In his memoir, "A Country of Words", Atwan says, "We have to learn to live together in peace and co-operation in a multi-cultural society in one democratic secular state for two people. One state for both peoples governed by a representative democracy and on an equal footing. We manage it here in London, it is working in South Africa, and there is enough room for everyone in Palestine. I respect the Jewish people and their religion. I do not want to destroy Israel but I do want to end racism and the current Apartheid system".