How can Israel respond to the strategic multi-dimensional campaign against it that is increasing in intensity daily?
D.J Schneeweiss, Israel's Coordinator of Anti-Boycott Strategy in Europe recently told Hadar-Israel that "we must respond to every challenge and in every arena," and that citizen action can play a crucial role.
"Israel's enemies are trying to change the rules of the game" by laundering their anti-Israel positions through use of human rights language and universal values rather than facts, Schneeweiss said. Their strategic goal is to tear asunder Israel's legitimacy. We must be ready to combat the lies that are being spread.
Israel's self-defense in response to missile attacks from terrorist armies exceeds international law standards according to IDF Lieutenant Colonel (res.) David Benjamin who was legal advisor to the IDF in Gaza for many years. Benjamin told Hadar-Israel that the good news is that, so far, Israel is winning the war against terrorist attacks despite having one hand tied behind its back, as it fully adheres to international law and basic moral standards, while its enemies do not.
The two spoke about combating terrorism, the Goldstone Report, and more at Hadar-Israel's most recent forum in Jerusalem. The event was headlined by international human rights lawyer Irwin Cotler on the topic "Lawfare! Fighting False Legal Actions and Boycotts that Demonize Israel."
Click here
to view the new videos of David Benjamin and D.J. Schneeweiss, as well as other exclusive and important videos of Irwin Cotler, Dore Gold, Danny Ayalon and Alan Baker.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
ISRAEL AND THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS
Israel and the upcoming elections – Please ask your Parliamentary candidates to agree to the following:
1. In December 2008 Israel had the right to attack Hamas terrorists in Gaza , after being subjected for eight years to their rocket attacks and that in future Israel has the right to defend itself.
2. The loophole in the Universal Jurisdiction Law - which enables Israelis visiting London to be arrested with no reference to the Attorney General - must be closed as a matter of urgency.
3. The biased Goldstone Report must be rejected in the UN.
4. There must be no boycott against Israel .
5. Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.
6. There must be no UK government contact with Hamas and Hizbolla until those organisations have proved beyond doubt that they renounce terror.
1. In December 2008 Israel had the right to attack Hamas terrorists in Gaza , after being subjected for eight years to their rocket attacks and that in future Israel has the right to defend itself.
2. The loophole in the Universal Jurisdiction Law - which enables Israelis visiting London to be arrested with no reference to the Attorney General - must be closed as a matter of urgency.
3. The biased Goldstone Report must be rejected in the UN.
4. There must be no boycott against Israel .
5. Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.
6. There must be no UK government contact with Hamas and Hizbolla until those organisations have proved beyond doubt that they renounce terror.
FULL TEXT OF LETTER FROM RONALD S. LAUDER TO PRESIDENT OBAMA
15 April 2010
Dear President Obama:
I write today as a proud American and a proud Jew.
Jews around the world are concerned today. We are concerned about the nuclear ambitions of an Iranian regime that brags about its genocidal intentions against Israel. We are concerned that the Jewish state is being isolated and delegitimized.
Mr. President, we are concerned about the dramatic deterioration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Israel.
The Israeli housing bureaucracy made a poorly timed announcement and your Administration branded it an “insult.” This diplomatic faux pas was over the fourth stage of a seven stage planning permission process – a plan to build homes years from now in a Jewish area of Jerusalem that under any peace agreement would remain an integral part of Israel.
Our concern grows to alarm as we consider some disturbing questions. Why does the thrust of this Administration’s Middle East rhetoric seem to blame Israel for the lack of movement on peace talks? After all, it is the Palestinians, not Israel, who refuse to negotiate.
Israel has made unprecedented concessions. It has enacted the most far reaching West Bank settlement moratorium in Israeli history.
Israel has publicly declared support for a two-state solution. Conversely, many Palestinians continue their refusal to even acknowledge Israel’s right to exist.
The conflict’s root cause has always been the Palestinian refusal to accept Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people. Every American President who has tried to broker a peace agreement has collided with that Palestinian intransigence, sooner or later. Recall President Clinton’s anguish when his peace proposals were bluntly rejected by the Palestinians in 2000. Settlements were not the key issue then.
They are not the key issue now.
Another important question is this: what is the Administration’s position on Israel’s borders in any final status agreement? Ambiguity on this matter has provoked a wave of rumors and anxiety. Can it be true that America is no longer committed to a final status agreement that provides defensible borders for Israel? Is a new course being charted that would leave Israel with the indefensible borders that invited invasion prior to 1967?
There are significant moves from the Palestinian side to use those indefensible borders as the basis for a future unilateral declaration of independence. How would the United States respond to such a reckless course of action?
And what are America’s strategic ambitions in the broader Middle East? The Administration’s desire to improve relations with the Muslim world is well known. But is friction with Israel part of this new strategy? Is it assumed worsening relations with Israel can improve relations with Muslims? History is clear on the matter: appeasement does not work. It can achieve the opposite of what is intended.
And what about the most dangerous player in the region? Shouldn’t the United States remain focused on the single biggest threat that confronts the world today? That threat is a nuclear armed Iran. Israel is not only America’s closest ally in the Middle East, it is the one most committed to this Administration’s declared aim of ensuring Iran does not get nuclear weapons.
Mr. President, we embrace your sincerity in your quest to seek a lasting peace. But we urge you to take into consideration the concerns expressed above. Our great country and the tiny State of Israel have long shared the core values of freedom and democracy. It is a bond much treasured by the Jewish people. In that spirit I submit, most respectfully, that it is time to end our public feud with Israel and to confront the real challenges that we face together.
Yours sincerely,
Ronald S. Lauder
President
World Jewish Congress
Dear President Obama:
I write today as a proud American and a proud Jew.
Jews around the world are concerned today. We are concerned about the nuclear ambitions of an Iranian regime that brags about its genocidal intentions against Israel. We are concerned that the Jewish state is being isolated and delegitimized.
Mr. President, we are concerned about the dramatic deterioration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Israel.
The Israeli housing bureaucracy made a poorly timed announcement and your Administration branded it an “insult.” This diplomatic faux pas was over the fourth stage of a seven stage planning permission process – a plan to build homes years from now in a Jewish area of Jerusalem that under any peace agreement would remain an integral part of Israel.
Our concern grows to alarm as we consider some disturbing questions. Why does the thrust of this Administration’s Middle East rhetoric seem to blame Israel for the lack of movement on peace talks? After all, it is the Palestinians, not Israel, who refuse to negotiate.
Israel has made unprecedented concessions. It has enacted the most far reaching West Bank settlement moratorium in Israeli history.
Israel has publicly declared support for a two-state solution. Conversely, many Palestinians continue their refusal to even acknowledge Israel’s right to exist.
The conflict’s root cause has always been the Palestinian refusal to accept Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people. Every American President who has tried to broker a peace agreement has collided with that Palestinian intransigence, sooner or later. Recall President Clinton’s anguish when his peace proposals were bluntly rejected by the Palestinians in 2000. Settlements were not the key issue then.
They are not the key issue now.
Another important question is this: what is the Administration’s position on Israel’s borders in any final status agreement? Ambiguity on this matter has provoked a wave of rumors and anxiety. Can it be true that America is no longer committed to a final status agreement that provides defensible borders for Israel? Is a new course being charted that would leave Israel with the indefensible borders that invited invasion prior to 1967?
There are significant moves from the Palestinian side to use those indefensible borders as the basis for a future unilateral declaration of independence. How would the United States respond to such a reckless course of action?
And what are America’s strategic ambitions in the broader Middle East? The Administration’s desire to improve relations with the Muslim world is well known. But is friction with Israel part of this new strategy? Is it assumed worsening relations with Israel can improve relations with Muslims? History is clear on the matter: appeasement does not work. It can achieve the opposite of what is intended.
And what about the most dangerous player in the region? Shouldn’t the United States remain focused on the single biggest threat that confronts the world today? That threat is a nuclear armed Iran. Israel is not only America’s closest ally in the Middle East, it is the one most committed to this Administration’s declared aim of ensuring Iran does not get nuclear weapons.
Mr. President, we embrace your sincerity in your quest to seek a lasting peace. But we urge you to take into consideration the concerns expressed above. Our great country and the tiny State of Israel have long shared the core values of freedom and democracy. It is a bond much treasured by the Jewish people. In that spirit I submit, most respectfully, that it is time to end our public feud with Israel and to confront the real challenges that we face together.
Yours sincerely,
Ronald S. Lauder
President
World Jewish Congress
ASA ADJUDICATION ON ISRAEL TOURISM ADVERT
The Zionist Federation was disturbed to read the adjudication (14 April) of the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) about an advert for tourism in Israel.
This adjudication is grossly disproportionate since there is not the slightest risk that the British public would be misled by the inclusion of photos of the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock into thinking that East Jerusalem was not disputed territory. There is no other way for tourists to see these sights other than through Israel. Indeed Israel took responsibility to support the religious sites of all denominations, a commitment which formed part of the obligations of an agreement with the Palestinian Authority signed in 1995. East Jerusalem was annexed by Israel over 40 years ago. Legally, from Israel’s point of view, it is one City with no difference between East and West
By saying that photos of the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock cannot be shown in Israel tourism advertising, the ASA is therefore preventing them being shown in ANY tourism advertising. That cannot be to the benefit of tourists.
We note that this ASA adjudication can be reviewed by the Independent Reviewer (Sir Hayden Phillips) at the request of the advertiser and that he can call for a review if there is “a substantial flaw of process or adjudication …. or where additional relevant evidence becomes available.”
We hope that there is such a review and that this results in the ASA Council changing its ruling.
For further information:
Alan Aziz
020 8202 0202
alan@zfuk.org
This adjudication is grossly disproportionate since there is not the slightest risk that the British public would be misled by the inclusion of photos of the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock into thinking that East Jerusalem was not disputed territory. There is no other way for tourists to see these sights other than through Israel. Indeed Israel took responsibility to support the religious sites of all denominations, a commitment which formed part of the obligations of an agreement with the Palestinian Authority signed in 1995. East Jerusalem was annexed by Israel over 40 years ago. Legally, from Israel’s point of view, it is one City with no difference between East and West
By saying that photos of the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock cannot be shown in Israel tourism advertising, the ASA is therefore preventing them being shown in ANY tourism advertising. That cannot be to the benefit of tourists.
We note that this ASA adjudication can be reviewed by the Independent Reviewer (Sir Hayden Phillips) at the request of the advertiser and that he can call for a review if there is “a substantial flaw of process or adjudication …. or where additional relevant evidence becomes available.”
We hope that there is such a review and that this results in the ASA Council changing its ruling.
For further information:
Alan Aziz
020 8202 0202
alan@zfuk.org
Friday, April 16, 2010
ZIONIST FEDERATION GENERAL ELECTION 2010-GUIDANCE NOTES
ZIONIST FEDERATION GENERAL ELECTION 2010-GUIDANCE NOTES
(In conjunction with Christian Friends of Israel)
1. Regardless of which candidate you may vote for, it would be very helpful if you-preferably in conjunction with some of your neighbouring colleagues (who must reside within the same constituency)- meet briefly with each of the mainstream party candidates to ascertain their attitudes on some or all of the issues mentioned below. The principal reason is to keep track on not only the next MP for your area but also on those aspiring to Parliament, either in the constituency you live in or- as inevitably many unsuccessful candidates do-where they move on to what they perceive as a more winnable seat. Your notes of their response will be helpful for our community in the future.
2. Organising hustings meetings after an election has been called is very unlikely to be accommodated in the candidate’s crowded programme, but holding a brief meeting with concerned constituents from a faith/religious community will usually be allotted in as each candidate will want to maximise their potential votes. Logically, asking for such a meeting-the best way to approach the candidate directly or through their agent-should be undertaken as soon as possible, rather than leaving it to the last few days before polling. If the candidate has already been approached, ask if he/she will either include you in the meeting or arrange for you to see any notes made by those who have already requested the meeting. Please remember you are dong so as concerned Jewish constituents.
3. In any constituency in which there is a BNP candidate attending for election, it is vital that all members of the community use their vote wisely. Ask neighbours and friends in the constituency to spread the word throughout the wider community: ‘Please use your vote for any of the mainstream parties’. Further details are available from the ‘Hope not hate’ campaign-which is supported by the Board – at www.hopenothate.org.uk
4. Discussing the following issues with candidates may result in their asking questions about the matters concerned or aspects of the subjects. If you are unsure of the facts, indicate that you will arrange for a briefing sheet to be sent to them and then please let us know the information required and the contact details for the candidate(s) concerned. We will ensure that such briefing notes are sent to them regardless of whether they are successful or not, after the 6th May, though if a candidate-should they become the constituency’s MP- post the election, to hold more detailed discussions on the suggested and other subjects of interest or concern.
5. If you have any questions- please do not hesitate to either email office@zionist.org.uk or call the Zionist Federation (0208 202 0202) and ask to leave a message for Eric Moonman or email info@bod.org.uk or call the Board of Deputies (0207 543 5400) to ask for advice or guidance. And please remember to notify your findings to the Zionist Federation requesting it is forwarded onto the Board of Deputies Elections Desk.
SUGGESTED SUBJECTS TO BE DISCUSSED WITH ELECTION CANDIDATES 2010
1) Israel & Middle East
[a] Have you visited Israel and or the Palestinian Administrated Territories?
[b] What is your position on Israel, its security concerns etc?
[c] Do you favour a two state solution: Israel and Palestine?
[d] Will you support strong sanctions being taken against Iran as long as it pursues nuclear ambitions?
[e] Would you agree ‘no recognition’ of Hamas & Hezbollah until each renounce terrorism?
[f] Do you oppose the campaign for an academic boycott of Israel?
[g] What is your view of calls for boycott of Israeli products and goods?
[h] Will you support legislation on Universal Jurisdiction making action against suspected war criminals subject to the approval of the Attorney General/DPP?
2) Anti Semitism & Racism (optional)
[a] Are you aware of the scale of the problem including a record number of race hate incidents against Jewish people and property last year (924 incidents-CST Annual Report)
[b] What suggestions would you make to help combat anti Semitism?
[c] What initiatives would you consider to tackle racism in general?
(In conjunction with Christian Friends of Israel)
1. Regardless of which candidate you may vote for, it would be very helpful if you-preferably in conjunction with some of your neighbouring colleagues (who must reside within the same constituency)- meet briefly with each of the mainstream party candidates to ascertain their attitudes on some or all of the issues mentioned below. The principal reason is to keep track on not only the next MP for your area but also on those aspiring to Parliament, either in the constituency you live in or- as inevitably many unsuccessful candidates do-where they move on to what they perceive as a more winnable seat. Your notes of their response will be helpful for our community in the future.
2. Organising hustings meetings after an election has been called is very unlikely to be accommodated in the candidate’s crowded programme, but holding a brief meeting with concerned constituents from a faith/religious community will usually be allotted in as each candidate will want to maximise their potential votes. Logically, asking for such a meeting-the best way to approach the candidate directly or through their agent-should be undertaken as soon as possible, rather than leaving it to the last few days before polling. If the candidate has already been approached, ask if he/she will either include you in the meeting or arrange for you to see any notes made by those who have already requested the meeting. Please remember you are dong so as concerned Jewish constituents.
3. In any constituency in which there is a BNP candidate attending for election, it is vital that all members of the community use their vote wisely. Ask neighbours and friends in the constituency to spread the word throughout the wider community: ‘Please use your vote for any of the mainstream parties’. Further details are available from the ‘Hope not hate’ campaign-which is supported by the Board – at www.hopenothate.org.uk
4. Discussing the following issues with candidates may result in their asking questions about the matters concerned or aspects of the subjects. If you are unsure of the facts, indicate that you will arrange for a briefing sheet to be sent to them and then please let us know the information required and the contact details for the candidate(s) concerned. We will ensure that such briefing notes are sent to them regardless of whether they are successful or not, after the 6th May, though if a candidate-should they become the constituency’s MP- post the election, to hold more detailed discussions on the suggested and other subjects of interest or concern.
5. If you have any questions- please do not hesitate to either email office@zionist.org.uk or call the Zionist Federation (0208 202 0202) and ask to leave a message for Eric Moonman or email info@bod.org.uk or call the Board of Deputies (0207 543 5400) to ask for advice or guidance. And please remember to notify your findings to the Zionist Federation requesting it is forwarded onto the Board of Deputies Elections Desk.
SUGGESTED SUBJECTS TO BE DISCUSSED WITH ELECTION CANDIDATES 2010
1) Israel & Middle East
[a] Have you visited Israel and or the Palestinian Administrated Territories?
[b] What is your position on Israel, its security concerns etc?
[c] Do you favour a two state solution: Israel and Palestine?
[d] Will you support strong sanctions being taken against Iran as long as it pursues nuclear ambitions?
[e] Would you agree ‘no recognition’ of Hamas & Hezbollah until each renounce terrorism?
[f] Do you oppose the campaign for an academic boycott of Israel?
[g] What is your view of calls for boycott of Israeli products and goods?
[h] Will you support legislation on Universal Jurisdiction making action against suspected war criminals subject to the approval of the Attorney General/DPP?
2) Anti Semitism & Racism (optional)
[a] Are you aware of the scale of the problem including a record number of race hate incidents against Jewish people and property last year (924 incidents-CST Annual Report)
[b] What suggestions would you make to help combat anti Semitism?
[c] What initiatives would you consider to tackle racism in general?
Thursday, April 15, 2010
ISRAEL'S 2010 YOUNG SCIENTIST OF THE YEAR
April 2010
Competing against 59 of Israel's top teenage scientists who presented 40 projects at Jerusalem’s Bloomfield Science Museum, Leo Baeck High School student Adi Friedman was awarded First Prize in the annual Intel-Israel Young Scientists Competition for her technique for replacing eroded spinal discs by injecting a hydro gel polymer. Adi's inspiration to develop a non-surgical technique was triggered by her father's severe pain from an eroded spinal disc.
A panel of judges headed by Hebrew University Prof. Hanoch Gutfreund declared Adi the 2010 winner and her prize of a full university scholarship was awarded to her by President Shimon Peres at Beit Hanassi in Jerusalem.
When interviewed about her achievement and the success of her findings, the modest 18 year old spoke of how much she owed to the Technion's Tammy Porat and 2004 Nobel Laureate for Chemistry, Professor Ciechanover for their guidance and support and to Leo Baeck Education Center headmaster Dani Fesler, a leader in gender-equality in education and an inspiration to all his students to reach for the sky.
Adi will now be representing Israel in the 2010 Intel International Young Scientists Competition
For further information contact:
Carol Brauner
Director of International Development
Email: carol@leobaeck.org.il
Web: www.leobaeck.org.il/english
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=141374049527
STATEMENT FROM THE ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISM
Minister of Tourism, Mr. Stas Misezhnikov stated in reaction: Jerusalem, through the city's myriad of religious and historical sites, is one of the most important tourism destinations in the State of Israel. The city attracts on a yearly basis millions of tourists of all faiths and nationalities, regardless of their personal or political persuasion.
The Ministry of Tourism is positioning Israel worldwide as the Holy Land, with Jerusalem at it's core, which represents more than a city of Peace, but also the united capital of the State of Israel. Just as no religious faction would interfere with the official stand of the English government regarding the country's marketing policy, so the attempt to do so towards Israel is at the outset flawed and therefore, under no circumstances negotiable.
The Ministry of Tourism is positioning Israel worldwide as the Holy Land, with Jerusalem at it's core, which represents more than a city of Peace, but also the united capital of the State of Israel. Just as no religious faction would interfere with the official stand of the English government regarding the country's marketing policy, so the attempt to do so towards Israel is at the outset flawed and therefore, under no circumstances negotiable.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION WILL NOT BE HALTED BY EXTREMISM
Confusion surrounded the announcement that Eurovision entrant and Arab Israeli singer Mira Awad would be withdrawing from a concert to celebrate Israel’s Independence in central London. Mira was due to appear in the ZF organised celebration on Monday 19th April as half of the headline act with co-singer NOA, one of Israel’s top performing artists. NOA issued the following statement:
“I am extremely disappointed that Mira Awad will not be performing as my guest in London on April 19th. Due to vulgar threats made to her and her family and Ofer our manager. By small-minded, cold-hearted people, she was forced to cancel. Mira and I, together and apart, will continue to fight with the tools at our disposal, words and music, to change this awful reality. We believe wholeheartedly that "there must be another way"!
Mira has since denied the death threats, but the ZF said it stood by its initial announcement and regretted the sad situation in which the singer is clearly under continuing pressure. Chief Executive Alan Aziz said:
“We do not wish to comment further on this sad story except to say
that the message coming from Arab extremists in Israel will not deter the ZF from celebrating Israel’s birthday, its diversity, its rich culture and most importantly, its democracy”
The ZF has organised Israel Independence Day concerts in the UK for the last 20 years, marking Israel’s 60th birthday at Wembley Stadium two years ago with the biggest Israel concert to be held in the world on that day. It is expecting a large crowd this year for NOA, and for X Factor’s Stacey Solomon, who will also make an appearance.
FILMING OPPORTUNITIES:
Monday 19th April, 7pm Central London
Crews are welcome to film at the concert if advance arrangements are made to interview NOA before or after the show.
INTERVIEWEES
Alan Aziz, Executive Director, ZF
NOA, Israeli Singer & songwriter & last year’s Eurovision Song Contest performer
BACKGROUND FOOTAGE
Footage of Mira & NOA’s previous concerts can be made available on request.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE FILMING PLEASE CONTACT
ALAN AZIZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of the ZIONIST FEDERATION
email - alan@zfuk.org
Tel: 020 82020202
Monday, April 12, 2010
THE DEATH (?) MUHAMMAD ZEN ISMAIL AL-FARMAWI
Shalom friends and family,
I'm sure that the name of Muhammad Zen Ismail Al-Farmawi is unknown to most (if not all) of you. He is the 15 year old boy that a few weeks ago was reported killed by the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) during fighting in Gaza. Media outlets like the New York Times, CNN, UPI, BBC, and all of the Arab world's media reported that he was killed by Israeli soldiers, a charge that was denied by Israel. They all claimed that his body was not recovered due to intense fighting in the area. The Palestinian news agency, Ma'an, reported:
"Muawiya Hassanein, director of ambulance and emergency services in Gaza, said Muhammad Zen Ismail Al-Farmawi, 15, was shot dead near the southeasterly border by Israeli forces, while local sources who wished to remain anonymous said the death may have been an internal matter.
Hassanein said ambulances had been unable to retrieve the body because of ongoing clashes in the area, while an Israeli military spokesman said he had no knowledge of the incident."
Much to the surprise of everyone (except for Israelis, I guess), the "dead" boy miraculously showed up, returned from the dead. Again, the report from Ma'an:
"It turns out Al-Farmawi was among 17 Palestinians detained by Egyptian forces shortly after they infiltrated the Egyptian side of Rafah via one of Gaza's numerous underground smuggling tunnels. The detainees, among them 12 minors, were returned to security forces at the border on Friday. They had been questioned about tunnel locations, leading to at least three closures, Egyptian security sources said.
Relatives expressed "overwhelming happiness" that their son was unharmed during the violence, our correspondent reported from Rafah.
Muawiya Hassanein, Health Ministry director of ambulance and emergency services in Gaza, told Ma'an that after "huge efforts and contacts" to return the boy's body, officials found him among those who were detained. He was assumed to have died in the clashes Tuesday after a Palestinian ambulance crew was refused permission to access to the area following reports of deadly fire, Hassanein explained at th time.
In what would turn out to be a second erroneous explanation that day, local residents also told Ma'an at the time that while the boy was indeed killed, the Israeli military was not involved. The purported death was an "internal matter," locals said, insisting on anonymity."
While the Western media broadcast the story of his death, did anyone see a broadcast about his return to life? I didn't! And, you may ask, what happened to him in Egypt? Well, according to the Jerusalem Post, he was in an Egyptian prison where, for 3 days, he was beaten and tortured with clubs and electrical wires. Not just Al-Farmawi, but his friends as well -- all of whom were minors. Where's the outrage? Where is the story from the NY Times? the BBC? CNN? Al- Jazeera? Of course, there are none. Why isn't Egypt held to the standards of human rights that Israel is? Why isn't the Palestinian media outlet, Ma'an, held to the same standards as the Israeli media? Obviously, these questions are rhetorical in nature.
However, in a serious note, where did the Goldstone report get the majority of its facts and figures that it used to condemn Israel's actions during Operation Cast Lead last year in Gaza? Ma'an. Where did the world's media get their inflated figures for the so-called "massacre" in Jenin in 2002 that proved later to be a fabrication? Ma'an. Who routinely reports of the terrible things that Israeli soldiers do to innocent Palestinians without ever truly investigating the incident? That would be Ma'an again. And, as we have learned from independent sources about Muhammad al-Dura, the young boy who died in his father's arms that we all saw live in 2000 as the second Intifada was begun which was widely reported that the IDF murdered him in cold blood, this was also not the case as independent sources in Germany and France have proven in! court that much of the scene was staged and he was most likely killed by Palestinia fire. And where did we get the original "facts" in this case? You guessed it... Ma'an!
If the world is going to hold Israel to stringent media standards (which I believe that we should be held to), then the same must be applied to Ma'an, other Palestinian news sources, and the Arab world as well (not to mention the Western apologists like CNN, the NY Times, BBC, etc.). Whenever the "street" needs to be riled up, some Arab leader announces that Al-Aksa must be defended as the Israelis are preparing to assault and destroy the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aksa mosque. All of us in the west know that this is not the truth. Any right-thinking Arab know that this is not the truth. But, to get the "street" to rise up, they spout this nonsense and here we go again... sigh...
Bottom line -- responsibility and accountability. That's what is needed to help weed through the massive amount of information that is coming out of our region. However, there is neither responsibility nor accountability. While the original story is usually found on the front page of the newspaper, above the fold, the retraction is buried on page 34 at the bottom as it is not "sexy" enough of a story to peak a reader's interest. This attitude has to change for there to be a chance at peace -- but it's not going to change.
And remember, today is 1383 days that Gilad Shalit has been held in Palestinian captivity (if he is still alive) with no humanitarian visits -- where is the outrage? Where is the caring? On the plus side, when I was in Rome last month, there was a huge poster of him hanging on the City Hall with a caption demanding his release. However, when will the world put pressure on them? Why is aid pouring into Gaza? Why is the world demanding that Israel and Egypt lift their "blockade" of Gaza? sigh...
Keep fighting the good fight!
Much luck and love always,
Steve
I'm sure that the name of Muhammad Zen Ismail Al-Farmawi is unknown to most (if not all) of you. He is the 15 year old boy that a few weeks ago was reported killed by the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) during fighting in Gaza. Media outlets like the New York Times, CNN, UPI, BBC, and all of the Arab world's media reported that he was killed by Israeli soldiers, a charge that was denied by Israel. They all claimed that his body was not recovered due to intense fighting in the area. The Palestinian news agency, Ma'an, reported:
"Muawiya Hassanein, director of ambulance and emergency services in Gaza, said Muhammad Zen Ismail Al-Farmawi, 15, was shot dead near the southeasterly border by Israeli forces, while local sources who wished to remain anonymous said the death may have been an internal matter.
Hassanein said ambulances had been unable to retrieve the body because of ongoing clashes in the area, while an Israeli military spokesman said he had no knowledge of the incident."
Much to the surprise of everyone (except for Israelis, I guess), the "dead" boy miraculously showed up, returned from the dead. Again, the report from Ma'an:
"It turns out Al-Farmawi was among 17 Palestinians detained by Egyptian forces shortly after they infiltrated the Egyptian side of Rafah via one of Gaza's numerous underground smuggling tunnels. The detainees, among them 12 minors, were returned to security forces at the border on Friday. They had been questioned about tunnel locations, leading to at least three closures, Egyptian security sources said.
Relatives expressed "overwhelming happiness" that their son was unharmed during the violence, our correspondent reported from Rafah.
Muawiya Hassanein, Health Ministry director of ambulance and emergency services in Gaza, told Ma'an that after "huge efforts and contacts" to return the boy's body, officials found him among those who were detained. He was assumed to have died in the clashes Tuesday after a Palestinian ambulance crew was refused permission to access to the area following reports of deadly fire, Hassanein explained at th time.
In what would turn out to be a second erroneous explanation that day, local residents also told Ma'an at the time that while the boy was indeed killed, the Israeli military was not involved. The purported death was an "internal matter," locals said, insisting on anonymity."
While the Western media broadcast the story of his death, did anyone see a broadcast about his return to life? I didn't! And, you may ask, what happened to him in Egypt? Well, according to the Jerusalem Post, he was in an Egyptian prison where, for 3 days, he was beaten and tortured with clubs and electrical wires. Not just Al-Farmawi, but his friends as well -- all of whom were minors. Where's the outrage? Where is the story from the NY Times? the BBC? CNN? Al- Jazeera? Of course, there are none. Why isn't Egypt held to the standards of human rights that Israel is? Why isn't the Palestinian media outlet, Ma'an, held to the same standards as the Israeli media? Obviously, these questions are rhetorical in nature.
However, in a serious note, where did the Goldstone report get the majority of its facts and figures that it used to condemn Israel's actions during Operation Cast Lead last year in Gaza? Ma'an. Where did the world's media get their inflated figures for the so-called "massacre" in Jenin in 2002 that proved later to be a fabrication? Ma'an. Who routinely reports of the terrible things that Israeli soldiers do to innocent Palestinians without ever truly investigating the incident? That would be Ma'an again. And, as we have learned from independent sources about Muhammad al-Dura, the young boy who died in his father's arms that we all saw live in 2000 as the second Intifada was begun which was widely reported that the IDF murdered him in cold blood, this was also not the case as independent sources in Germany and France have proven in! court that much of the scene was staged and he was most likely killed by Palestinia fire. And where did we get the original "facts" in this case? You guessed it... Ma'an!
If the world is going to hold Israel to stringent media standards (which I believe that we should be held to), then the same must be applied to Ma'an, other Palestinian news sources, and the Arab world as well (not to mention the Western apologists like CNN, the NY Times, BBC, etc.). Whenever the "street" needs to be riled up, some Arab leader announces that Al-Aksa must be defended as the Israelis are preparing to assault and destroy the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aksa mosque. All of us in the west know that this is not the truth. Any right-thinking Arab know that this is not the truth. But, to get the "street" to rise up, they spout this nonsense and here we go again... sigh...
Bottom line -- responsibility and accountability. That's what is needed to help weed through the massive amount of information that is coming out of our region. However, there is neither responsibility nor accountability. While the original story is usually found on the front page of the newspaper, above the fold, the retraction is buried on page 34 at the bottom as it is not "sexy" enough of a story to peak a reader's interest. This attitude has to change for there to be a chance at peace -- but it's not going to change.
And remember, today is 1383 days that Gilad Shalit has been held in Palestinian captivity (if he is still alive) with no humanitarian visits -- where is the outrage? Where is the caring? On the plus side, when I was in Rome last month, there was a huge poster of him hanging on the City Hall with a caption demanding his release. However, when will the world put pressure on them? Why is aid pouring into Gaza? Why is the world demanding that Israel and Egypt lift their "blockade" of Gaza? sigh...
Keep fighting the good fight!
Much luck and love always,
Steve
SOAS: THE SCHOOL OF ORGANISED ANTI-SEMITISM / BY SHLOMI COHEN
On the first week of my degree, nearly three years ago, I met a friend of mine who had heard that I was going to SOAS. He asked – jokingly - if I really knew what the initials of SOAS stand for. The headline was his answer. I obviously didn’t take it seriously; I mean, after all, Anti-Semitism is a strong word, right? It’s the kind of word Jews tend to use very infrequently and only if a non-Jew makes a very racist comment. It is also, illegal. You cannot be anti-Semitic nor support racism, especially in a place like SOAS, right? Well, that’s exactly what I thought up to the moment I realised that Anti-Semitism in SOAS is here, hidden behind the modern, fashionable and so beloved ideology around our campus, Anti-Zionism.
Quote me: “Whoever supports Anti-Zionism, supports Anti-Semitism.” Yes, I bet you read that and said: ’I am Anti-Zionist but I don’t have anything against Jews, after all, I am not a racist!’ I am writing mainly to you guys, to the ones who are so against Zionism without even understanding what Zionism is, and to the ones who support the Palestinians, basing your ‘knowledge’ on nothing more than what you see on the BBC, without even considering how racist and radical the Palestinian leadership can be.
Zionism is nothing less than the dream and the ideal of the Jewish people returning to Israel. Zionism is comprised of a belief that Jews are a nation, and as such are entitled to self-determination as all other nations are. Palestinians included. But when students claim that Zionism equals racism, they actually deny the Jews the right to identity. Anti-Zionists deny Jews a right that they are all so ready to give to others, first of all the Palestinians.
The Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) - or as some members of SOAS tend to describe them as freedom fighters (Leila Khaled, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine hijacker jailed by the British in 1970 for attacking an El Al flight) - from the 1960s onwards denied the link between Judaism and the land of Israel. Moreover, Israel never existed on any Palestinian map throughout the Oslo “peace process”. They also deny the Holocaust, update blood libels and Jewish conspiracy themes with their general incitement to violence. Yes, this is the PLO which is so beloved by students and others in SOAS who ignore and excuse the terrorism, Jihadism and anti-Jewish stereotypes to be found in PLO nationalism. After all, please don’t forget that Palestinians can only be the victims and never the bad guys.
The United Nations, that we all support and admire for their decisions and actions, passed resolutions against Israel that most of you support. These include the withdrawals of Israel from Hezbolland (South Lebanon) and from Hammastan (Gaza). So, how come when the resolutions are so against the Jews you accept them but when the UN passed a resolution on the partition of Palestine in 1947 into two states, a Jewish one and a Palestinian one, you are against it? And on the same note, the Palestinians, that students are such a big fan of, together with the Arab countries surrounding Israel, tried to wipe out Israel from the map when they started the war against Israel in 1948 because there is no place for Jews in Palestine. And of course, this is not based on any anti-Semitic reasons.
How many of you believe that Jews succeeded merely because of the conspiracy in which the Zionists, i.e. the Jews, manipulated England and America via their strong lobbies? This is a typically anti-Semitic narrative of which Hitler might have approved.
Let me make it straight for you, I don’t accuse any student or member of staff of deliberate anti-Semitism. I know you oppose racism, prejudice and discrimination. I also know, as you might have just realised, that you have been misled into thinking you can be anti-Zionist and still stay true to all principles you believe in. But to be honest, what do you expect when SOAS hosts events such as "Sharon: A New Hitler for a New Age" featuring British MP George Galloway, or when members of staff give legitimacy for suicide bombers or when the head of the SOAS Jewish Society was called a "fascist" and a "terrorist". What can one expect when the movie “Jerusalem, the Promise of Heaven", which states that "these people (the Jews) have no values or ethics" and refers to Jewish prayers as "satanic rustles and whispers" was shown in the SOAS Student Union's lounge? Take a moment and think about it.
Once I told a friend of mine a joke: “There is no anti-Semitism in SOAS.”
Quote me: “Whoever supports Anti-Zionism, supports Anti-Semitism.” Yes, I bet you read that and said: ’I am Anti-Zionist but I don’t have anything against Jews, after all, I am not a racist!’ I am writing mainly to you guys, to the ones who are so against Zionism without even understanding what Zionism is, and to the ones who support the Palestinians, basing your ‘knowledge’ on nothing more than what you see on the BBC, without even considering how racist and radical the Palestinian leadership can be.
Zionism is nothing less than the dream and the ideal of the Jewish people returning to Israel. Zionism is comprised of a belief that Jews are a nation, and as such are entitled to self-determination as all other nations are. Palestinians included. But when students claim that Zionism equals racism, they actually deny the Jews the right to identity. Anti-Zionists deny Jews a right that they are all so ready to give to others, first of all the Palestinians.
The Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) - or as some members of SOAS tend to describe them as freedom fighters (Leila Khaled, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine hijacker jailed by the British in 1970 for attacking an El Al flight) - from the 1960s onwards denied the link between Judaism and the land of Israel. Moreover, Israel never existed on any Palestinian map throughout the Oslo “peace process”. They also deny the Holocaust, update blood libels and Jewish conspiracy themes with their general incitement to violence. Yes, this is the PLO which is so beloved by students and others in SOAS who ignore and excuse the terrorism, Jihadism and anti-Jewish stereotypes to be found in PLO nationalism. After all, please don’t forget that Palestinians can only be the victims and never the bad guys.
The United Nations, that we all support and admire for their decisions and actions, passed resolutions against Israel that most of you support. These include the withdrawals of Israel from Hezbolland (South Lebanon) and from Hammastan (Gaza). So, how come when the resolutions are so against the Jews you accept them but when the UN passed a resolution on the partition of Palestine in 1947 into two states, a Jewish one and a Palestinian one, you are against it? And on the same note, the Palestinians, that students are such a big fan of, together with the Arab countries surrounding Israel, tried to wipe out Israel from the map when they started the war against Israel in 1948 because there is no place for Jews in Palestine. And of course, this is not based on any anti-Semitic reasons.
How many of you believe that Jews succeeded merely because of the conspiracy in which the Zionists, i.e. the Jews, manipulated England and America via their strong lobbies? This is a typically anti-Semitic narrative of which Hitler might have approved.
Let me make it straight for you, I don’t accuse any student or member of staff of deliberate anti-Semitism. I know you oppose racism, prejudice and discrimination. I also know, as you might have just realised, that you have been misled into thinking you can be anti-Zionist and still stay true to all principles you believe in. But to be honest, what do you expect when SOAS hosts events such as "Sharon: A New Hitler for a New Age" featuring British MP George Galloway, or when members of staff give legitimacy for suicide bombers or when the head of the SOAS Jewish Society was called a "fascist" and a "terrorist". What can one expect when the movie “Jerusalem, the Promise of Heaven", which states that "these people (the Jews) have no values or ethics" and refers to Jewish prayers as "satanic rustles and whispers" was shown in the SOAS Student Union's lounge? Take a moment and think about it.
Once I told a friend of mine a joke: “There is no anti-Semitism in SOAS.”
DEATH THREATS FORCE ARAB ISRAELI EUROVISION SINGER TO CANCEL LONDON APPEARANCE AT ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY SHOW
Mira Awad, the Arab Israeli singer who represented Israel at the last Eurovision Song Contest, has been forced to withdraw from the ZF Israel Independence Day Concert in London due to death threats made against her and her family.
The singer is half of a duo with Achinoam Nini, also known as NOA, another of Israel’s top artists, and they perform internationally to packed audiences, promoting a unique message of peace and co-existence. The ZF who have organised annual Israel Independence Day events in Britain for many years took the decision to invite them to headline the show and celebrate the diversity of the Israeli population, of which almost 20% are non-Jewish citizens, mainly Arabs.
Mira Awad who lives in Tel Aviv, and her family who live in Kfar Rameh, a small Arab Village in the north of Israel, now have round the clock security because of the death threats. Her Manager, Ofer Pesenzon, said:
“Mira and NOA’s message is about finding a peaceful way forward. It is tragic that when both sides try to come together by any means possible to build a better future for Israel and its citizens, there are those prepared to use violence and intimidation to destroy it.”
Mira will remain in Israel whilst NOA performs at the London concert, her first appearance in 6 months since giving birth to a daughter. The ZF’s Executive Director Alan Aziz said
“Our concert is a celebration of independence but it’s also about building understanding. Mira wanted to be the Arab Israeli voice promoting a peaceful way forward, and the threats to her life expose the real truth behind the conflict - that everyone is hostage to extremism, and it is a dangerous and growing phenomenon that denies Israel’s right to exist, and the world’s right to democracy.”
The ZF has announced that X Factor finalist Stacey Solomon will also feature in this year’s show. Stacey Solomon, the 20 year old single mum from Dagenham, Essex has come a long way from her days serving up fish and chips at a local restaurant. She studies theatre arts and attended King Solomon High School. She came into the public eye when she appeared on the first show of X Factor Live Auditions shocking everyone with an angelic rendition of Louis Armstrong’s What A Wonderful World. “I’m rarely surprised, but I have to be completely honest with you, that performance took me by surprise. I think you are really, really good.” said Simon Cowell
FILMING OPPORTUNITIES
Mon 19th April 7.30-10pm
Crews will have access to film at the event and there will be an opportunity to interview NOA after the show.
INTERVIEWEES
Alan Aziz, Executive Director, ZF
NOA, Israeli Singer & songwriter & last year’s Eurovision Song Contest performer
BACKGROUND FOOTAGE
Footage of Mira & NOA’s previous concerts can be made available on request.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE FILMING PLEASE CONTACT
ALAN AZIZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of the ZIONIST FEDERATION
EMAIL: alan@zfuk.org
MOBILE: 07768 946 868
The singer is half of a duo with Achinoam Nini, also known as NOA, another of Israel’s top artists, and they perform internationally to packed audiences, promoting a unique message of peace and co-existence. The ZF who have organised annual Israel Independence Day events in Britain for many years took the decision to invite them to headline the show and celebrate the diversity of the Israeli population, of which almost 20% are non-Jewish citizens, mainly Arabs.
Mira Awad who lives in Tel Aviv, and her family who live in Kfar Rameh, a small Arab Village in the north of Israel, now have round the clock security because of the death threats. Her Manager, Ofer Pesenzon, said:
“Mira and NOA’s message is about finding a peaceful way forward. It is tragic that when both sides try to come together by any means possible to build a better future for Israel and its citizens, there are those prepared to use violence and intimidation to destroy it.”
Mira will remain in Israel whilst NOA performs at the London concert, her first appearance in 6 months since giving birth to a daughter. The ZF’s Executive Director Alan Aziz said
“Our concert is a celebration of independence but it’s also about building understanding. Mira wanted to be the Arab Israeli voice promoting a peaceful way forward, and the threats to her life expose the real truth behind the conflict - that everyone is hostage to extremism, and it is a dangerous and growing phenomenon that denies Israel’s right to exist, and the world’s right to democracy.”
The ZF has announced that X Factor finalist Stacey Solomon will also feature in this year’s show. Stacey Solomon, the 20 year old single mum from Dagenham, Essex has come a long way from her days serving up fish and chips at a local restaurant. She studies theatre arts and attended King Solomon High School. She came into the public eye when she appeared on the first show of X Factor Live Auditions shocking everyone with an angelic rendition of Louis Armstrong’s What A Wonderful World. “I’m rarely surprised, but I have to be completely honest with you, that performance took me by surprise. I think you are really, really good.” said Simon Cowell
FILMING OPPORTUNITIES
Mon 19th April 7.30-10pm
Crews will have access to film at the event and there will be an opportunity to interview NOA after the show.
INTERVIEWEES
Alan Aziz, Executive Director, ZF
NOA, Israeli Singer & songwriter & last year’s Eurovision Song Contest performer
BACKGROUND FOOTAGE
Footage of Mira & NOA’s previous concerts can be made available on request.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE FILMING PLEASE CONTACT
ALAN AZIZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of the ZIONIST FEDERATION
EMAIL: alan@zfuk.org
MOBILE: 07768 946 868
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