The Olympic Torch Delivers a Message of Peace for Middle East

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the Olympic torch continues its journey across Italy. When it was their turn, Israeli torchbearer Maoz Inon and Palestinian torchbearer Aziz Abu Sarah delivered a message of peace. “Peace, salam, shalom,” they said, bearing the Olympic flame in Verona’s city center, in the Veneto region. Inon’s parents were killed by Hamas in the October 7 massacre in the moshav Netiv HaAsara. Abu Sarah lost his brother during the First Intifada. Both are peace activists, and their participation was met with applause. Verona’s mayor, Damiano Tommasi, said he was honored by their presence. “These two activists, with their history and experience, are a testament to the possibility of dialogue and the capacity to be messengers of peace despite grief.”