The Israel-Gaza conflict has put Israeli peace activists in a difficult position, as they try to navigate the cycle of violence and the security needs of Israelis. Some activists have chosen to step back from the public debate on a permanent ceasefire, fearing backlash from the majority of the Jewish population. Expressing sympathy for Palestinians can lead to job loss and public sanctions, as some Jewish Israelis have experienced. Despite the challenges, these activists remain committed to advocating for peace and a two-state solution. KION546 reported
In October, human rights activist Ziv Stahl experienced a horrific terrorist attack when Hamas militants killed her sister-in-law and several peace activists in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, Israel. Stahl, who is the executive director of the human rights organization Yesh Din, acknowledges Israel’s right to defend itself but believes that it should not do so indiscriminately or at the expense of Palestinian lives. She describes her position as “complicated” and reflects the challenges faced by Israel’s peace movement in the aftermath of the attack.
While some Israeli peace activists are advocating for a permanent ceasefire and a two-state solution, others have chosen to step back from the public debate due to the difficulty in obtaining permits for anti-war protests and the potential consequences of expressing sympathy for Palestinians. Jewish Israelis who publicly support Gaza have lost their jobs or faced public sanctions, highlighting the risks associated with speaking out against the government’s actions.
Rafael, a member of the anti-war group “Gen Zayin,” passionately supports a two-state solution and criticizes the country’s right-wing politicians for hindering the establishment of a Palestinian state. He believes that peace and the end of occupation are the only ways to achieve a just society.
Expressing sympathy for Palestinians can be dangerous, as seen in the case of Ofer Cassif, a lawmaker who was suspended for speaking out against the Israeli government’s confrontational approach. Israel Frey, an ultra-Orthodox journalist, was chased out of his home by far-right extremists after expressing support for both Israeli victims and Palestinian women and children affected by the conflict.
Maoz Inon, a peace activist who lost his parents in the attack, believes that peace is the only way to ensure security for everyone in the region. He uses his personal experience to advocate for peace and prevent further victims.
Elana Kaminka, an Israeli American, used to buy vegetables from a Palestinian village but changed her views after her son was killed defending a training base near the border with Gaza. She believes that if Israelis truly understood the realities of the occupation, their opinions would change. She also recognizes the ease with which both sides can demonize each other and emphasizes the importance of interaction and understanding.
The grief felt by Kaminka for the loss of her son is overwhelming, making it difficult for her to continue with her daily life. The attack has led to increased security measures and barriers in the region, further dividing Israelis and Palestinians.
Overall, the peace movement in Israel is facing challenges in the aftermath of the attack, with activists balancing their desire for peace with the risks associated with expressing sympathy for Palestinians. The ongoing conflict has also polarized public opinion and made it difficult to advocate for a permanent ceasefire and a two-state solution..