A prominent Israeli peace activist, Itamar Avneri, has recently shared insights with FRANCE 24 regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, emphasizing that a significant portion of the Israeli population is in favor of ceasing hostilities. Avneri, a co-founder of the grassroots movement Standing Together, argues that the current narratives surrounding the conflict often misrepresent the desires of both Israeli and Palestinian people, who fundamentally seek peace.

Avneri's comments come in the context of a pivotal peace conference held at Paris's City Hall, organized in collaboration with the NGO Les Guerrires de la Paix. This event aims to unite Israeli and Palestinian peace activists, fostering dialogue and collaboration to explore tangible solutions to the hostilities that have ravaged the region for years. During this conference, participants are expected to discuss strategies for reconciliation, humanitarian aid efforts, and ways to build trust between the communities.

According to Avneri, the narrative that often dominates media coverage is shaped by the positions of the right-wing Israeli government and the militant group Hamas. This narrative oversimplifies the complexities of the situation, overlooking the vast number of individuals who desire an end to violence and a path toward coexistence. He stresses that the real opposition does not lie between the Israeli and Palestinian people but rather between those entrenched in power on both sides, who may benefit from the continuation of conflict.

Avneri's organization, Standing Together, is dedicated to promoting unity and peace, engaging in grassroots activism that amplifies the voices of those who wish to see an end to the fighting. As a participant in the Paris conference, he hopes to inspire more citizens to become advocates for peace, emphasizing that true change stems from the bottom up, rather than from government policies alone.

The urgency of this message resonates particularly in light of the recent escalations in violence in Gaza, which have prompted widespread international concern and calls for a ceasefire. Avneri believes that sustained dialogue between the Israeli and Palestinian people is essential in overcoming historical grievances and establishing a foundation for lasting peace.

As the conference unfolds, it remains to be seen how these discussions will influence perceptions of the conflict and what actionable steps can be taken to pave the way for a peaceful resolution that honors the aspirations of both peoples.