In a world where the loudest voices are often the most violent or pessimistic, it can be very easy to fall into a cycle of violence and negativity; this is especially prominent when it comes to certain issues, such as the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflicts.

Just this week, Iran fired rockets into Israel with the intent to kill or harm innocent civilians, and Israel responded with an equally violent approach.

The organisation Solutions Not Sides exists to remind us that while some may perpetuate this cycle of violence, peace and equality is possible, and many people, from either end of the conflict are advocating for it. Last Friday, the Sixth Form had the opportunity to hear from guest speakers from Solutions Not Sides: Megen (מָגֵן) from Israel and Amir from Palestine (Jerusalem), both told very personal stories, including the loss of relatives due to the tragic conflict.

The experience was eye-opening, especially as they educated everyone on some of the long and complex history of the region. They then went on to describe how so many, despite the apparent ‘right’ for revenge want peace, not war. I can confidently say that everyone's mindset and understanding changed over the course of the 2 hours.

Here's what students had to say:

• "It has made me realise the sensitivity of the situation and the urgency required to fix it."

• "The talk helped reassure me that the majority don’t want violence or hate."

• "I have become less biassed towards Palestine and now view the two nations less as single entities and more as individuals that are suffering under perhaps harsh rule and within conflict."

• "I started with a foundational knowledge and came out more confident."

• "I learned how there are many peace thinking organisations and people who disagree with both sides of the war."