XI Meeting of the World Congress on Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue: An Urgent Call for Peace

Buenos Aires, July 1, 2025 - In a global context marked by tensions and conflicts, the XI Meeting of the World Congress on Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue was held today under the theme "A Path to Peace." The event, held in the Angélica Zapata Auditorium of the Universidad del CEMA, brought together prominent leaders and thinkers committed to building a more just and harmonious world.

(From left to right) Danny Lew, President of the Foundation A Path Towards Peace; Gabriel Ben-Tasgal; Gustavo M. Guillermé, President of the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue; H.E. Most Rev. Oscar Sarlinga, Bishop Emeritus and Interreligious Missionary; and Hugo Ferreyra, Director of Political and Governmental Relations for the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue.

A Deep Look at the Middle East

The highlight of the day was the presentation entitled "Middle East: Risks, Challenges, and Paths to Peace," by renowned journalist and analyst specializing in the region, Gabriel Ben-Tasgal. Before an audience packed with special guests, Ben-Tasgal outlined the complex situation facing the State of Israel following the brutal attacks perpetrated by the terrorist group Hamas on October 7, 2023. He also addressed the growing conflict with Iran, highlighting the geopolitical implications and challenges to regional stability.

With an incisive analysis, the expert not only contextualized recent events but also warned about the worrying advance of terrorism beyond the borders of the Middle East. He pointed to the infiltration of extremist groups in Europe and Latin America, mentioning specific cases such as Venezuela and Bolivia, where more than 15,000 passports were reportedly issued to Iranian citizens and members of terrorist organizations, facilitating their mobility and influence. Ben-Tasgal emphasized how terrorism, or the states that support it, seek alliances with corrupt politicians and leaders to expand their reach, a phenomenon he described as a "global threat."

A Call for Unity and Clarity

The meeting was moderated by Danny Lew, president of the A Path to Peace Foundation, and Gustavo M. Guillermé, president of the World Congress on Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue. In his welcoming remarks, Guillermé was firm in addressing the gravity of this historic moment: "The world is different after October 7, 2023. There is a before and after that date. We cannot be politically correct or lukewarm: we must be clear and precise in our position on this issue."

Gustavo M. Guillermé, President of the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue, delivers his welcoming address.

Guillermé vehemently defended Israel's struggle, arguing that it is not just about defending a people or a state, but a 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 freedom of peoples. One cannot—and should not—negotiate with terrorism. Hamas and Hezbollah only seek the destruction and annihilation of those who think differently."

He also called for interfaith solidarity, warning about 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. We all have the right to exist and live together," he stated with conviction.

Towards a Future of Hope

At the close of the event, Gustavo Guillermé delivered a message of hope and unity: "Let us work for peace, for the joint work of all religions, without losing its essence. And most importantly: let us remain calm and trust in God, our only Guide, because the light will overcome the darkness." His words resonated as a reminder that, despite the challenges, dialogue and shared faith can be powerful tools for overcoming adversity.

From left to right: Danny Lew, President of the Foundation A Path Towards Peace; Gabriel Ben-Tasgal; and Gustavo M. Guillermé, President of the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue.

The 11th Meeting of the World Congress on Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue reaffirmed the need to build bridges between cultures and religions in an increasingly fragmented world. Gabriel Ben-Tasgal's reflections and the organizers' interventions made it clear that peace is not a distant ideal, but a goal that demands commitment, clarity, and joint action. In times of darkness, events like this one stand as beacons of hope, reminding us that light, as Guillermé affirmed, can always prevail.