The resumption of violence in the Israel-Palestine conflict demands a renewed commitment to peace

Dylan Lewis-Rowlands, Ysgrifennydd Cenedlaethol / National Secretary CND Cymru

This article will not submit a single substantive solution to the situation in the middle east. Instead, we hope to provide a perspective often suppressed – that of peace-building and reconciliation.

We hope to show how important this is not just in the immediate here and now, but how vital a continued struggle for peace is in finally ending the conflict.

The recent resumption of violence in the Israel-Palestine conflict, a protracted struggle marred by over a century of violence and animosity, demands a renewed commitment to peace advocacy. Beyond the geopolitical intricacies and historical grievances, advocating for peace in this troubled region is not just a strategic choice but a moral imperative.

The urgency of this advocacy becomes increasingly evident when we consider the growing human toll, the cycles of suffering, and the collective yearning for a future defined by coexistence rather than conflict.

At the heart of any peace advocacy in the Israel-Palestine conflict lies a profound humanitarian imperative. The toll of the conflict on ordinary lives, on families and communities, is immeasurable.

Future

Civilians on both sides endure the consequences of violence, displacement, and the perpetual threat to their security. By advocating for peace, we seek to alleviate this human suffering, offering hope for a future where children can grow up without the spectre of conflict haunting their formative years.

Endless cycles of violence have perpetuated a culture of retaliation and deep-seated mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians. Advocating for peace means challenging this cycle and promoting alternative avenues for dispute resolution.

Breaking the cycle of violence is not just about preventing immediate harm but more importantly, laying the groundwork for a more stable and secure future. A commitment to dialogue over discord and negotiation over confrontation is essential for building the foundations of an enduring peace.

The Israel-Palestine conflict has, over time, eroded the dignity of individuals and communities on both sides. Advocating for peace is a collective acknowledgment of the inherent dignity of every human being, regardless of their background or identity.

A just and lasting peace requires a commitment to recognising and preserving the dignity of all, ensuring that the rights, aspirations, and cultural heritage of Israelis and Palestinians are respected and protected.

The repercussions of the Israel-Palestine conflict extend beyond its borders, influencing regional stability and international relations. By advocating for peace, we contribute to the broader goal of fostering stability in the middle east.

A resolution to the conflict has the potential to reshape regional dynamics, fostering cooperation and collaboration rather than perpetuating a source of tension and instability that has not just regional, but global dimensions.

The international community has a crucial role to play in advocating for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Beyond geopolitical interests, there is a global responsibility to address conflicts that have far-reaching consequences.

By advocating for peace, nations and organisations can work together to provide diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian support, reinforcing the importance of a collaborative approach to resolving complex and deeply rooted conflicts – in which we specifically in Britain had a hand in creating.

Peace advocacy is not solely about negotiating political agreements; it is much more about building bridges between communities. Cultural understanding and reconciliation efforts are vital components of the peace-building process.

Advocating for peace involves promoting initiatives that bring Israelis and Palestinians together, fostering dialogue, and encouraging shared experiences that transcend historical animosities.

While diplomatic efforts are crucial, the power of grassroots movements and civil society organisations should not be underestimated. Peace advocacy at the community level can influence public opinion, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to a groundswell of support for peace initiatives.

By empowering ordinary citizens to engage in dialogue and bridge-building activities, we lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable peace process; this happens not just in the Levant, but in our own communities too.

Conflict

Advocating for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict is not a mere diplomatic strategy but a moral imperative rooted in the shared humanity of all those affected by the conflict. By committing to peace, we strive to alleviate suffering, break the cycle of violence, preserve human dignity, foster regional stability, and build bridges between communities.

It is a call to action that transcends borders and ideologies, reminding us that the pursuit of peace is an investment in a future where the collective aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians can coalesce into a shared vision of coexistence and stability.

This is why CND Cymru is so resolutely arguing for the perspective of peace to be centred in dialogue. Actions and words from both the Israeli government and Hamas make it clear violence is being pursued, and centred in the discussion.

As a leading organisation in the peace movement, we welcomed the Senedd support for a ceasefire on 8th November but were disappointed by the decision of most Welsh Government ministers to abstain. To be seen on the international stage as a nation of peace, Wales must have the courage to step forward.

CND Cymru will continue to play its part in building solidarity, understanding, and trust between our communities. We will continue to push our key messages; We have to disarm the nuclear threat. We have to meet the challenge of climate change.

We have to work towards a peaceful world. We must work towards a peaceful region where those of various creeds can co-exist. Such a vision for the future will likely require compromise.

Whether that is a 2 State Solution on 1967 borders, a one state solution, something in between, or something not yet developed, both Israelis and Palestinians have a right to self determination and peaceful existence.

That arises not just from the grand and lofty politics in the UN and between states, but much more resolutely arises from communities coming together, building bridges, and grassroots pressure for peace.

The solution to this 100-year crisis ultimately lies in the people of Israel and Palestine coming together and forging a future for themselves. We, in Wales, can play our part in making this a reality.