What fascinated me most was Mansour’s ability to slowly unravel the complexity of diplomatic work, offering glimpses behind the scenes while connecting each revelation to the broader canvas of global history. It felt like a masterclass in understanding how nations interact—not just at the negotiation table, but through the lived experiences of those who build the bridges. It’s a rare opportunity to see diplomacy from this perspective, and Mansour’s thoughtful approach makes it a nice read.
——Gustave Hakushu (Amazon Reader)

This book offers insights into modern diplomacy and a diplomat's life while addressing key issues in international relations. It is an invaluable resource for aspiring diplomats and anyone eager to understand the realities of global diplomacy in today’s interconnected world.
——Rene Fornari Landa (Amazon Reader)

One of the aspects I appreciated most was Mansour’s ability to blend historical analysis with personal anecdotes. His firsthand experiences as a diplomat brought authenticity to the narrative, making complex diplomatic concepts accessible and relatable. Mansour’s reflections on the challenges diplomats face in a rapidly changing global landscape resonated deeply, especially his discussions about navigating cultural sensitivities and fostering understanding between nations. This is a must-read book.
——Diana Hammonds (Amazon Reader)

A fascinating, in-depth exploration of diplomacy and the real lives of the people whose careers move the cogs of international relations.

What is diplomacy? Popular media will often oversimplify diplomats, portraying them as savvy political agents of a state, cocktail-sipping spies in all but their titles. The truth, however, is far more dramatic. Diplomacy is the driving force behind every major international accord and every grand monument. Diplomats stand over every border drawn—and every nation formed in the modern age.
As the first Arab-Israeli and Druze ambassador, Dr. Reda Mansour has spent three decades in diplomatic service to the State of Israel, developing essential ties with nations worldwide during crucial points in his country’s history—and establishing them where there were none. In We Who Shape Nations, Ambassador Mansour breaks down and redefines the diplomatic mechanisms for the 21st century, taking readers on a well-crafted tour of diplomatic endeavors through the well-seasoned eyes of a career diplomat.
From the first-ever diplomat to Cold War-era diplomacy and the age of information, through the versatile skills that make up a diplomat’s toolset and the actual, day-to-day life of embassies and ambassadors—Ambassador Mansour offers an intimate view of diplomacy and its rich values—from setting geopolitical developments in motion, to the lives of the men and women who shape the fates of entire nations.

Reda Mansour is the former Israeli Ambassador to Brazil, Panama, and Ecuador, as well as Deputy Ambassador in Portugal, Consul General in Atlanta, and Consul in San Francisco. At 35, he was the youngest ambassador in Israel’s history and the country’s first Arab and Druze career diplomat.