Lebanon, a most beautiful country, has repeatedly been hit by terrible wars and fighting that have taken the lives of so many innocent men, women and children. Weapons have replaced words. The violence has led to destruction, bloodshed, deepening anger, hatred and counter-violence.

It would be wrong to think this violence is limited to southern Lebanon and northern Israel, between Hizbollah and Israel. This war is deepening hatred between Israelis and Arabs, weakening the possibility of peace in the region, and dividing the rest of the international community. Arab-Israeli wars have also created a deep schism between people of different religions, with the great majority of Jews in the world supporting Israel and the great majority of Muslims and Arab migrant communities in other countries expressing support for Lebanon. It is time to end the violence and return to words. We want to stimulate alternative ways of arguing, without hiding facts that may be unpleasant for one or the other party.

We hope and pray for peace in Lebanon!

Kees Hulsman