Introduction
In a poignant call for reconciliation, many Israelis are urging international recognition of a Palestinian state following the tragic loss of life during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Maoz Inon, a 49-year-old man who lost his parents in the attack, has emerged as a voice for peace, advocating for a future rooted in dialogue and mutual understanding.
A Shift Towards Reconciliation
For Maoz Inon, embracing the path of reconciliation is crucial, not just for personal healing but for the broader healing of society. “After years of occupation and oppression, the attack didn’t come as a surprise to me,” he admits in an interview in Tel-Aviv. He believes that recognizing a Palestinian state is essential for both peace and safety. His involvement in the peace movement spans nearly two decades, reinforcing his commitment to dialogue.
Public Sentiment and Support for the Cause
A recent survey by the Pew Research Center reveals a stark decline in the belief among Israeli adults regarding the possibility of coexistence; only 21% currently hold this view. This sentiment is mirrored by the growing support for a petition titled “No to War – Yes to Recognition,” which has garnered over 8,500 signatures. The supporters aim to present this petition at the upcoming UN General Assembly, seeking a total of 10,000 signatories.
Recognition as a Path to Security
The petition emphasizes that recognizing a Palestinian state is not a punishment for Israel, but a necessary step towards a safer future. The movement Zazim Community Action is leading efforts, distributing flyers and campaigning throughout Tel Aviv. Co-founder Raluca Ganea believes that options are clear: either mutual destruction or a two-state solution. “We need to acknowledge the humanity of the Palestinians, giving them the same status as other nations,” she states emphatically.
International Context and Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian crisis in Palestinian territories will be a prominent topic at the UN assembly. With countries like France, the UK, Belgium, Canada, and Australia poised to recognize a Palestinian state, the hope is that this acknowledgment will alleviate the suffering faced by many Palestinians. Ganea argues that such recognition would combat the ongoing dehumanization and promote mutual respect.
The Call for Concrete Measures
For recognition to translate into reality, Inon insists on implementing concrete measures to ensure its success. “Anyone acting against a two-state solution should face consequences,” he states, highlighting that accountability must extend to all levels, including political and military leaders as well as civilians. Additionally, he advocates for international investment to support the establishment of this state.
Shared Future and Self-Determination
In alignment with Inon’s vision, Yonatan Zeigen, whose mother, peace activist Vivian Silver, was also a victim of the October attack, stresses that the only viable future is one where both peoples share the land. “The Palestinians’ fundamental right to self-determination and statehood should not be negotiable or conditional,” he asserts passionately.
Conclusion
As voices for peace emerge from the depths of grief, the call for recognizing a Palestinian state is becoming more urgent. The need for dialogue, mutual recognition, and understanding is critical for healing not only individual wounds but also societal divides. Only through such efforts can a peaceful coexistence be truly realized.
