Call For ‘Genuine Peace’ In Israel/Palestine
[Joint Message] “A single candle on the darkest night can become a beacon of hope. An agreement for a 4-day+ pause – which began on Friday, 24/11/23 – in the six- week devastation which has been visited on Gaza, since the tragic events of October 7th, offers a possibility for a ‘flicker of light showing the way forward’.
“The pause is the result of negotiations between the parties with mediation facilitated by Qatar. This breakthrough has come in a context created by Israeli families of hostages pressuring their leaders; as well as global grassroots activism of millions, calling for a ceasefire.
“It is noteworthy that the pause was announced on the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy- 22/11/23 – who historians describe as an exemplar amongst global leaders for his outstanding character in promoting World Peace. In a seminal speech he made, just five months before his death, Kennedy said: “I’m talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living…to build a better life for ..children… peace for all.
“Under the terms of the agreement; there has been an extension to the original 4-day cessation of the bombardment of this tiny jurisdiction described by former British Prime Minister David Cameron as a ‘Prison Camp’. This will temporarily suspend the unprecedented carnage from a 24/7 arial attack – bombing-tonnage which in less than 2 months, has exceeded 1.5 Hiroshima bombs. The current death count of men, women and children is approaching 15,000; of these 40% are children – including more than 1,000 babies.
“The initial agreement provided an exchange of 50 Israeli hostages -taken by Hamas – for 150 Palestinian prisoners – a number of whom have been incarcerated, without charge and held indefinitely. This exchange has proceeded -thus far- as planned.
“In addition to this exchange, there will be a small quantity – given the crisis – of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza over the 4+ days.
“Of course, like any dispute, these initial steps are delicately poised. Given its implications on a global level, this agreement is a significant crossroads. There are some who are wishing to return to the current status quo, while – millions around the globe – including a significant number of Jewish people – are committed to what JFK described as a genuine peace.
“We – the undersigned invite our Island community – especially over the next days – to offer their thoughts and prayers – and beyond – for genuine peace.
“Those signing personally – Not on behalf of any organizations to which they are connected.”
- Joan Dillas-Wright [ President of the Senate]
- Glenn Fubler [Imagine Bermuda]
- Wendell Hollis [Barrister]
- K Randolph Horton [Former Government Minister]
- Dianna Kemp [Former Barrister renowned in the global legal community]
- Phil Perinchief [Former Attorney General]
- Alex Scott [Former Premier]
- Saleem Talbot [ Islamic Community]
- Rev Jermaine Tucker [Pastor of Christ Church Devonshire]
- Roy Wright [Former Dean @ Bermuda College]
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