President Herzog to European Muslim Leaders: ‘You Represent the Silent Majority Yearning for Peace’.
In a powerful display of regional bridge-building, President Isaac Herzog welcomed a high-level delegation of Muslim leaders from across Europe to his Jerusalem residence on Monday, declaring that they represent the “silent majority” in the Middle East that desires peace, coexistence, and dignity for all.
The visit, organized by the European Leadership Network (ELNET)—a prominent group fostering democratic values and advancing Israel-Europe relations—brought together imams and Muslim community leaders from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
“Bring back to your communities a message of peace, of partnership, and of hope. I pray for the day when peace will come with Syria, with Lebanon, and inshallah [God willing], even with Saudi Arabia. We will continue to move forward, no matter how long it takes, because peace is our destiny,” Herzog told the delegation.
“You represent the world of brotherhood, humanity, and liberty”. The words of Imam Hassen Chalghoumi from France to me today.
— יצחק הרצוג Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) July 7, 2025
I was moved and inspired to meet him and a delegation led by @elnet_global of Imams and Muslim community leaders from across Europe. They stand bravely… pic.twitter.com/gpJja2tQne
A Clear Message: Israel is Committed to Peace
President Herzog emphasized that Israel’s commitment to peace, tolerance, and inclusion is not mere rhetoric but a living reality, evident in the millions of Muslim citizens who are an integral part of Israeli society. The president highlighted Israel’s dedication to advancing a future where Jews and Muslims live side by side, building a shared society even as radical forces in the region attempt to sow division and fear.
“We are all children of Abraham, and the historic progress in our region is progress through dialogue—between Muslims and Jews, and Jews and Muslims,” Herzog stated passionately. “Despite the radical forces that wish to sabotage this progress and the true desire of Isaac and Ishmael to live together, there are other forces—growing stronger each day—who are advancing this vision.”
🇮🇱In Presidential office and had a great opportunity to meet the President of Israel.
— Noor Dahri - نور ڈاہری 🇬🇧 (@dahrinoor2) July 7, 2025
Professional photos will come soon. pic.twitter.com/cHbdbb5JH4
A Defiant Stand Against Extremism
The delegation’s visit was not simply symbolic; it was a bold counterweight to extremism. The Muslim leaders voiced their friendship toward Israel and emphasized that their presence was a direct message against the forces of hate threatening coexistence across the Middle East and Europe.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Imam Hassen Chalghoumi of Drancy, France, and chairman of the Conference of Imams of France, delivered a stirring statement that cut through the noise of geopolitics:
“What we have witnessed since October 7 is not merely a conflict between Israel and Hamas, nor between Israel and Hezbollah—the so-called ‘Party of Satan.’ This is a confrontation between two fundamentally different worlds. You represent the world of brotherhood, humanity, and compassion. You stand for democracy, liberty, and the sanctity of life.”
Muslim leaders from across Europe came to Israel to pray for peace - and sang Hatikvah in Jerusalem.
— Israel in the UK 🇮🇱🤝🇬🇧 (@IsraelinUK) July 7, 2025
They met with @Isaac_Herzog to stand against extremism and show the power of unity.
“You represent the silent majority. Here in Israel, we see Jews, Muslims and Christians… pic.twitter.com/lfwVF9SJZL
A Message of Brotherhood, a Prayer for Peace
Imam Chalghoumi concluded with words that resonated deeply:
“My message to you is one of deep affection, for you and for your remarkable people. It is a message of brotherhood and solidarity, and a heartfelt prayer that the hostages will return home in peace, and that the pain and suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza will come to an end.”
Moving Toward a New Era
The meeting underscored the growing network of Muslim voices in Europe willing to stand publicly with Israel, rejecting extremism while advocating for coexistence. It also signaled Israel’s steadfast commitment to building a new era in the Middle East—an era driven not by fear or conflict but by partnerships with those ready to embrace a vision of shared prosperity and peace.
President Herzog’s meeting was a reminder to the world: The Middle East’s future will not be dictated by radicals with rockets but by leaders—Jewish and Muslim—extending their hands in partnership, even in the shadow of war.
