Shalom Achshav [Peace Now], the largest grassroots movement in Israel's history, was founded in March 1978 by 348 reserve commanders, officers, and combat soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces. Experience had taught these citizen soldiers that only a politically negotiated solution could end their nation's hundred-year war with its Arab and Palestinian neighbors

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"The Israeli-Palestinian Peace Coalition views with grave trepidation and dismay, the current reoccupation of Palestinian areas by the Sharon government. Such an action will do nothing to bring security to either peoples but will rather further inflame the situation.

We call on both sides to immediately act to end all violence and military actions and all killing of civilians. The current reoccupation will be a disaster for both peoples and further demonstrates the need to urgently return to the negotiating table unconditionally.

We call on both sides to embrace the Saudi initiative, and on all people of good will to spare no effort in bringing an end to occupation and realizing normalization between Israel and her neighbors, and the region.

The voice of reason will not be silenced by the roar of guns."


PROTEST ACTIVITY THIS WEEKEND "STOP THE BLOODSHED – GET OUT OF THE TERRITORIES"

Friday, March 8: Intersections countrywide Activists will hang banners and distribute materials.
Saturday Night, March 9: Protests in J'lem and Tel-Aviv The protests will be held in parallel at the PM's residence and the Defense Ministry. Large displays under the inscription "Sharon's idea of Peace & Security" will be set up and activists will carry torches.
Sunday, March 10: Permanent vigil at the PM's residence Activists will maintain a constant presence by a large sign inscribed with the rising number of Intifada dead.
The activities are part of the "Get Out of the Territories – Get Back to Ourselves" campaign. The campaign is aimed at creating public debate about the continued occupation and its impact on Israel’s future. Last Saturday Night over 3,000 people marched from Zion Square to the PM's residence in Jerusalem. Three weeks ago, over 15,000 people attended a march and rally in Tel-Aviv.

On Saturday, March 16, a large convoy will leave for Sharon's farm in the Negev, where a protest rally will be held.

The Peace Coalition is composed of the following bodies: Peace Now, Meretz, the Labor Doves, the Kibbutz Artzi Movement, The Democratic Choice Party, Hashomer Hatzair, Netivot Shalom, the Bereaved Family Forum and The Green Line – Students for a Border.
http://www.peacenow.org/shalomachshav/events.html

www.peacenow.org/index.html