Israeli, Palestinian mothers walk barefoot in Rome for peace

ISTANBUL

Israeli and Palestinian mothers marched barefoot in Rome on Wednesday in a joint call for peace, urging an end to violence and greater inclusion of women in peace efforts.

Yael Admi, an Israeli activist from Women Wage Peace, and Reem Al-Hajajreh, a Palestinian activist and founder of Women of the Sun, led the walk, which brought together mothers from both sides of the conflict.

Admi shared the grief her mother felt after losing her eldest son, telling Vatican News that she "died from sorrow."

"But when I think of my mother, I know that our highest duty is to prevent unnecessary wars because they bring deep pain. There is no reason in the world that justifies a mother burying her child for war," she said.

The march, held between the Ara Pacis and Pincio areas of Rome, marked the start of a series of international initiatives under the Mothers’ Call movement.

Al-Hajajreh said peace must start with women.

"They must be an integral part of the negotiation table because they must participate in civil organizations to develop their society and defend their children," she told Vatican News.

She added that she had taught her children to claim their rights through non-violence and dialogue.

“Even if freedom really costs a lot, the price to pay must never be blood," she said.

Both activists emphasized the importance of younger generations.

Al-Hajajreh said young people are their greatest hope, adding that they “want them to have the chance to grow, fulfill their dreams and live meaningful lives.”

The activists met the Pope following a general audience in Rome.

Israel’s war in Gaza has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians, injured over 171,000 and damaged around 90% of civilian infrastructure.

Since the ceasefire agreement in October 2025, at least 677 Palestinians have been killed and 1,813 injured in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.