Thousands of Israelis convened in Tel Aviv’s Yad Eliyahu Arena on Monday night, uniting under a call for peace and an end to ongoing hostilities.
Organized by a coalition of prominent Israeli nonprofits and NGOs, including Women Wage Peace, Standing Together, and Peace Now, the rally drew families of fallen soldiers, hostages held by Hamas, and renowned historian Yuval Noah Harari among its speakers.
Addressing the crowd, Harari delivered a poignant keynote emphasizing the coexistence of Jewish and Palestinian peoples within the region.
“Both exist here,” he affirmed, urging acknowledgment of their historical and spiritual ties to the land. Reflecting on mutual fears of annihilation, Harari underscored the necessity for both sides to recognize each other’s right to security and respect.
“This isn’t about land scarcity but a deficit in spirit,” Harari emphasized, urging a shift from conflict towards reconciliation. “Every moment offers a choice to embrace peace,” he added, urging a departure from the cycle of war.
The event marked a rare display of unity across ideological divides, with participants advocating for a renewed commitment to dialogue and mutual recognition.
Rabbis for Human Rights, Breaking the Silence, and The Anti-Occupation Bloc were among the groups supporting the initiative, alongside partners such as The New Israel Fund and Shatil.
In attendance were individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united in their desire for a peaceful resolution to longstanding conflicts. Amidst chants for coexistence and banners calling for an end to violence, the rally encapsulated a collective plea for a new path forward.
As the night concluded, optimism mingled with resolve among the participants. “It is never too late to mend,” Harari concluded, echoing sentiments shared by many. “War is not inevitable; peace remains within our grasp.”
The rally concluded with a collective hope that their voices would resonate beyond the arena, fostering a broader movement towards reconciliation and sustainable peace in the region.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members