The Secret to Peace in the Middle East?

October 8, 2006 - 8:24 PM by

Yohay Elam reports:

The Free Hugs phenomenon reached Israel. A blogger named Shay went to Rabin square a few days ago and hugged 232 people. He got help from a few others. One of them wrote about it in her blog (Hebrew). I saw that they were doing another hugging campaign on Friday morning quite close to my house, so I went there.

At first I was embarrassed. I just came for a peek, and suddenly I was offered a few hugs. I must admit that I turned red, but afterwards I also joined the hugging and also took some pictures before running into the air conditioned mall.

I spoke to some of them. One guy said that he just joined spontaneously. Another came there to shoot a video for a website. They said that they will probably continue this thing a few more times.

I like the initiative. I wonder if this buzz, that some people consider as very touching could work out in blockades in the West Bank. Will we see a queuing Palestinian or an exhausted Israeli soldier raise a sign reading “Free Hugs” and accept a hug from the other side? Could be a funny picture…

Tags: • Category: General, Israeliness, Life, Pop Culture 

Comments

One Comment on The Secret to Peace in the Middle East?

  1. Saboma on Mon, Oct 16th 2006 12:28 PM

    2. Thanks for posting this Sara. I bet there are many in Israel who will benefit from this idea. I wish I could be there to give out a few lowly but heart felt hugs to all who will accept them from me. I forwarded this video to a very special man in Kiryat Shmona who remained there throughout the whole crisis to ensure the safety of the one’s who couldn’t or wouldn’t leave. We were in contact throughout the whole ordeal although I am in California. We heard the bombs together via Skype.
    He’s a man after me own heart of hearts because of his loyalty, perseverence, and stamina.

    Thanks again!

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