[IsraelTimes] Dozens of Israeli peace activists, both Jews and Arabs, representing organizations including Peace Now, Women Wage Peace, the Parents Circle – Families Forum, and others, met this afternoon with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.
The meeting was relatively unusual. During the two years of war in Gaza following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, Israeli peace organizations have rarely met with Abbas. The meeting had been planned before this morning’s announcement of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
The group of peace organizations that participated in the meeting – the “It’s Time” coalition – called the meeting the beginning of a “new era.”
“The era of managing the conflict is over,” the coalition told The Times of Israel. “Today begins a new era – an era of hope. The deal to release the hostages and establish a ceasefire is a moment of grace and a historic opportunity to end the cycle of wars and open a political process that will bring security, equality, freedom, and peace to both peoples.”
Also present at the meeting was Arab-Israeli Knesset Member Ayman Odeh, chair of the Hadash-Ta’al party.
According to participants in the meeting, Abbas praised the ceasefire deal, saying, “I welcome the agreement signed today, the end of the war, and the release of the hostages.”
He reportedly added: “I have been waiting for this meeting, and the presence of your delegation here strengthens the hope for peace. Hope begins today, and now we must ensure that we continue and realize peace. Every Israeli who believes in peace is our brother.”
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