French artists and icons lead silent march in Paris for peace

Thousands of protestors flooded the streets of Paris to join a march of silence, led by a group of artists and street entertainers. They were advocating for peace in the Middle East, specifically between Israelis and Palestinians.

Waving olive branches and white banners, a diverse group of French performers took the lead in a silent procession through central Paris. The aim was to call for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and also to emphasize unity within France.

A multitude of people, including famous actors such as Isabelle Adjani and Emmanuelle Beart, alongside singers and other cultural icons, marched from the Arab World Institute towards the Museum of Art and History of Judaism, situated across the Seine River.

According to actress Nadia Fares, “We have a blue sky over our heads today, while in Israel and Palestine, there are bombs and war. We’re not helping the situation by taking sides or spreading hate.” She expressed hope that the silence of the march would counteract the global chaos.

Weeks of tension in France

With a significant population of both Jewish and Muslim communities, France has been witnessing weeks of protests and unease stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The French government is working towards securing a truce to facilitate humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza and negotiating the release of eight French hostages held by Hamas.

President Macron has vocalized support for Israel’s right to self-defense while condemning the “too numerous civilian losses” in Gaza.

Read more on RFI English

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