A MedBridge delegation of 11 French senators from different political backgrounds, led by socialist senator Jean Pierre Plancade, visited the Middle East from February 4th to 7th 2007 in order to meet with Israeli and Palestinian political leaders and intellectuals. Half of the delegation had never been to the region before.

At the end of the visit, the senators underlined the impact it has had on their views. Senator Yvon Collin declared: “It was my first visit to this conflict-torn region  which has been the focus of so much passion. I thought I had understood the great mystery. Yet, as the trip went on I realized how complex the issue was....” Senator Robert Hue said: “In fact, my perception of the situation changed. Now I understand it is even more complex.”

The delegation also discovered how much Israelis and Palestinians strive for peace: “The existence and the will of men and women who struggle for peace and dialogue on both sides is very important” asserted Robert Hue. Michel Becot said “I felt they have a real desire to achieve peace, even at the price of some sacrifices”