Two peace activists, Israeli Maoz Inon and Palestinian Aziz Abu Sarah, recently spoke about their shared vision of peace in an interview with “L’Osservatore Romano.” The duo attended the “Arena of Peace” event in Verona in May 2024, where they were personally embraced and supported by Pope Francis. Their inspiring journey towards peace is a testament to the power of reconciliation and understanding.
On a tragic day in October, Maoz lost both his parents to violence, but he found a brother in Aziz. Despite their different backgrounds and past traumas, they have come together to advocate for peace and unity between their peoples. Aziz’s experience with his brother’s arrest and subsequent death, along with Maoz’s decision to stand against war after his parents’ tragic passing, brought them together in a bond forged through shared pain and a common goal of peace.
Both Maoz and Aziz have faced personal challenges and hardships that have shaped their commitment to peace. Their journey towards reconciliation began long before their meeting in Verona. Maoz’s work in tourism led him to organize tours in Palestinian territories, while Aziz’s experiences in Jerusalem exposed him to different perspectives and ultimately led him to join peace initiatives like the Parents Circle Families Forum.
Their meeting with Pope Francis in Verona was a pivotal moment that further strengthened their resolve to promote peace. Inspired by the Pope’s message of dialogue and unity, Maoz and Aziz continue to spread their message of peace around the world. Their efforts have culminated in the creation of It’s Time, a coalition of Israeli and Palestinian organizations working towards peace.
As they prepare for the largest peace demonstration in the history of Israel and Palestine, scheduled for May 8 and 9 in Jerusalem, Maoz and Aziz invite individuals from all walks of life to join them in their quest for peace. Their hope is to show political leaders that the vast majority of Israelis and Palestinians desire peace and reconciliation, not more conflict and suffering.
Through their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to peace, Maoz and Aziz exemplify the transformative power of forgiveness and understanding in the face of adversity. As they continue their activism and advocacy for peace, their message resonates with people worldwide, offering hope for a future built on dialogue, respect, and compassion.
