XI World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue: An Urgent Call for Peace

Buenos Aires, July 1, 2025 — In a world marked by escalating tensions and conflicts, the XI World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue convened today under the theme “A Path Towards Peace.” Hosted at the Angélica Zapata Auditorium of Universidad del CEMA, the event gathered distinguished leaders and thinkers dedicated to building a more just and harmonious global community.

In-Depth Analysis of the Middle East

The centerpiece of the congress was a compelling keynote address titled “Middle East: Risks, Challenges, and Paths to Peace,” delivered by Gabriel Ben-Tasgal, a renowned journalist and expert on the region. Speaking to a packed audience of special guests, Ben-Tasgal provided a detailed breakdown of the complex situation facing Israel following the brutal attacks by the terrorist group Hamas on October 7, 2023. He also addressed the intensifying conflict with Iran, emphasizing the geopolitical implications and the significant challenges to regional stability.

With sharp insight, Ben-Tasgal not only contextualized recent events but also raised alarms about the disturbing spread of terrorism beyond the Middle East. He pointed to the infiltration of extremist groups into Europe and Latin America, citing specific cases in Venezuela and Bolivia, where over 15,000 passports have reportedly been issued to Iranian citizens and members of terrorist organizations, facilitating their mobility and influence. Ben-Tasgal described how terrorism, often backed by certain states, seeks alliances with corrupt politicians and leaders to expand its reach, labeling it a “global threat.”

A Call for Unity and Moral Clarity

The event was moderated by Danny Lew, President of the Foundation A Path Towards Peace, and Gustavo M. Guillermé, President of the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue. In his welcoming address, Guillermé spoke with unwavering resolve about the gravity of the current historical moment: “The world has changed since October 7, 2023. There is a before and an after to that date. We cannot afford to be politically correct or lukewarm; we must be clear and precise in our stance on this issue.”

Guillermé passionately defended Israel’s struggle, framing it as not just the defense of a people or a state, but as a broader battle for the fundamental values of the West: “Israel is fighting for the existence of the West, for religious freedom, human dignity, democracy, and the liberty of peoples. There can be no negotiation with terrorism. Hamas and Hezbollah seek only destruction and the annihilation of those who think differently.”

He also issued a powerful call for interfaith solidarity, condemning the massacres of Christians in Syria and the persecution of minorities simply for professing their faith. “We have a moral obligation to defend all religions, from the largest to the smallest. Everyone has the right to exist and to coexist,” he affirmed with conviction.

A Vision of Hope for the Future

In his closing remarks, Gustavo M. Guillermé offered a message of hope and unity: “Let us work for peace and for the joint efforts of all religions, without any losing their essence. Above all, let us remain calm and trust in God, our only Guide. For light will overcome darkness.” His words served as a poignant reminder that, despite the challenges, dialogue and shared faith can be powerful tools to overcome adversity.

The XI World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue reaffirmed the urgent need to build bridges between cultures and religions in an increasingly fragmented world. The insights of Gabriel Ben-Tasgal and the powerful interventions by the organizers made it clear that peace is not a distant ideal but a goal that demands commitment, clarity, and collective action. In times of darkness, events like this stand as beacons of hope, reminding us, as Guillermé asserted, that light can always prevail.