Israeli President Reuven Rivlin recently spoke with CNN to discuss the current situation in the Middle East, particularly concerning the release of Israeli hostages, issues surrounding truces and other agreements, as well as the criticism of the Irish Prime Minister’s recent tweet.
In the interview, Rivlin stated that the citizens of both Israel and Arab countries are “all hostage to dangerous ideologies and events.” He asked for an end to all hostilities and violence and he emphasized the importance of achieving peace between Israel and her Arab neighbors.
Rivlin further added that obtaining the release of Israeli hostages is a primary concern. He called for the kidnappers and their backers to “recognize the importance of the release of our citizens as part of the broader process of return to a true dialogue in the region.”
The Israeli president also spoke about the importance of a negotiated truce and how it could lead to further progress in the peace process. He believes a truce could ensure all sides can remain mutually respectful and maintain their respective commitments to the process, as well as creating opportunities for future cooperation.
Rivlin then moved onto the subject of the Irish Prime Minister’s recent tweet regarding Israel. The prime minister had criticized the Israeli government’s policies and practices, including building settlements in the West Bank. Rivlin said that while he supports the right of countries to criticize, he disagreed with the prime minister’s words, which he described as “one-sided and unhelpful.”
Rivlin concluded the interview by saying that the release of Israeli hostages and the achievement of a lasting peace remain his top priorities. He stressed that peace requires more than just words, but real action. Only then can both sides begin to take meaningful steps towards a better future.