Confidence alone does not make peace, but acknowledging rights and confidence do. Failure to recognize these rights creates a sense of injustice; it keeps the embers burning under the ashes.
Yasser ArafatRead
I come bearing an olive branch in one hand, and the freedom fighter's gun in the other. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the duality of seeking peace while being prepared to fight for freedom.
Yasser Arafat's quote symbolizes the balance between diplomacy and the struggle for freedom. It conveys a powerful message that while one seeks peace (represented by the olive branch), the reality of conflict (represented by the gun for freedom) cannot be ignored. Arafat emphasizes the importance of not abandoning peaceful resolutions, even in the face of struggle, thus illustrating a complex relationship between peace and conflict.
Themes
PeaceFreedomConflictDiplomacyStruggle
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech on conflict resolution.
More from Yasser Arafat
All quotes βPalestine is the cement that holds the Arab world together, or it is the explosive that blows it apart.
Yasser ArafatRead
Similar quotes
If Catholics and Jews can today come together regularly for talks after so many tears and so much blood have been shed, than Jews and Arabs must be able to do the same.
Edgar Bronfman, Sr.Read
I am at peace with God and all mankind.
Harriet TubmanRead
We extend our hand towards peace. Our people are committed to peace. We know that peace entails painful compromise for both sides.
Ariel SharonRead
It is not only war that can stop war but men of goodwill, conscious of their mission can deal with such deadly enemy.
Haile SelassieRead
So let us persevere. Peace need not be impracticable, and war need not be inevitable. By defining our goal more clearly, by making it seem more manageable and less remote, we can help all peoples to see it, to draw hope from it, and to move irresistibly toward it.
John F. KennedyRead
Purusing peace means rising above one's own wants, needs, and emotions.
Benazir BhuttoRead