Thursday, November 28, 2013

STATEMENT ON THE IRANIAN NUCLEAR DEAL

The ZF today expresses its gravest reservations about the Iranian nuclear deal recently struck in Geneva . The deal, brokered on behalf of the P5+1 countries, has been widely hailed as a major breakthrough in the long-running standoff over Iran ’s nuclear programme. However, by offering to reduce the level of sanctions without gaining corresponding cast-iron guarantees that the nuclear programme is only intended for civilian usage, the international community has let Iran off the hook. Apparently desperate to believe in the moderation of Hassan Rouhani, Western negotiators have now eased the pressure on a regime that has a track record of duplicity and misdirection, is currently knee-deep in Syrian blood, and might well soon trigger a nuclear arms race in the most volatile region on the planet.
Failure to dismantle the infrastructure for war
The main problem of the negotiations is the failure to address Iranian facilities that are clearly designed for the development of nuclear weapons. Under the Geneva deal, Tehran will be allowed to keep both its heavy water reactor in Arak and thousands of centrifuges – key elements for military, not civilian, nuclear production.
The threat of duplicity
The Iranian regime has a track record of duplicity over its nuclear programme, and there is a very real threat that the easing of sanctions will provide it with the cover it needs to complete a nuclear weapon. Iran could easily follow in the footsteps of North Korea , surreptitiously continuing its programme until it had reached the point of no return.
The reality of the Ayatollah’s regime
Despite the charm offensive of Hassan Rouhani, Iran is still the same state it has been since 1979– a reactionary, messianic theocracy under the total control of the Ayatollahs. This Islamist regime shares the ideology of the radical extremists who commit terrorist atrocities across the globe, and has no regard for democracy or human rights. Those seeking proof of the reality of Tehran ’s ambitions and ruthlessness should look no further than Syria , where Iranian expertise, weapons and soldiers have played a central role in the brutal massacring of the civilian population.
The catastrophic implications of a nuclear bomb

There must be no misunderstanding the seriousness of Iran procuring a nuclear weapon. Should this worst-case scenario occur, it would most likely trigger an arms race in the Middle East . The nuclear brinksmanship between the US and the Soviet Union was arguably the most dangerous period in humanity’s history; for it to be repeated in this volatile and unstable part of the world would be a global catastrophe. Additionally, a nuclear Tehran represents a unique threat to Israel , given the frequent and shameless calls for the annihilation of the Jewish state made by the Iranian leadership.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

LATEST BDS FAIL: PRO-PALESTINIAN WEBSITES RELY ON ISRAELI TECH

The ZF today highlighted the latest example of a BDS fail, in which extreme pro-Palestinian activists who claim to support Boycotts, Sanctions and Divestment against Israel fail to practice what they preach. The most recent stumbling block for those committed to singling out the Jewish state is how to make an anti-Israel website without using Israeli technology.
 
For example, the website of the Cornell University branch of ‘Students for Justice in Palestine’ explains that the group’s campaigns include boycotting skincare products, soft drink manufacturers, and even hummus. Or the ‘Palestinian Holocaust Museum’ website, which presumably is opposed to any recognition of Israel since it promotes the baseless assertion that Zionists have committed genocide against the Palestinians.
 
What do these two websites have in common? They were both constructed using Wix: an Israeli website-building programme, based in (where else?) Tel Aviv.
 
Paul Charney, ZF chairman said:
 

“The misguided BDS campaign to ostracise Israel has hit another snag, as yet again rabid pro-Palestinians find that living without the benefits of the Start-Up Nation might not be as easy as they’d hoped. Supporters of peace should be pleased, since boycotting Israel does nothing to help the two sides reconcile.”

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

AL JAZEERA FOCUSES ON FAMILY OF HAMAS MASS-MURDERER

  • News report critical of visitation rights for families of Palestinian prisoners
  • Story focuses on family of Abdullah Barghouti, Hamas bomb-maker
  • No information provided about Barghouti’s involvement in terrorism

The ZF today condemned an Al Jazeera story as a ‘failure of basic journalistic integrity.’ “Children visit jailed Palestinian relatives” focuses on the experience of the family of one Abdullah Barghouti, serving time in an Israeli jail. The audience is encouraged to sympathise with the young girls who make the hours-long journey from Ramallah to visit their father, with the programme noting how exhausting these ‘special occasions’ are. The news story uses the girls as an example of Palestinian families whose children have to travel alone because their adult relatives are denied access into Israel. Faeda al Barghouti, the wife of Abdullah, complains that she herself is banned from visiting her husband, and has only seen him twice in the last decade. She describes how she has been ‘refused security clearance’, but that no reason has been given for this. Since the only information the audience receives about Abdullah Barghouti is that he is serving 67 life sentences, the inference from the report is that Israel deliberately and arbitrarily denies family visits, feeding into the standard narrative of unjust treatment of Palestinians.

Abdullah Barghouti is in fact one of the most senior Hamas figures held by Israel. He was sentenced due to his role in constructing the bombs used in multiple suicide attacks on civilian targets, responsible for the deaths of 66 Israelis and the wounding of over 500. The victims of these attacks, such as the Sbarro massacre at a Jerusalem restaurant, included children and pregnant women; nonetheless, Barghouti remains unrepentant to this day, and has stated that if released he would continue to be actively involved in such acts of terrorism. None of this is mentioned in the report.
Paul Charney, ZF chairman, commented:



“Al Jazeera’s story on the family of Abdullah Barghouti represents a failure of basic journalistic integrity. Surely any discussion of the security concerns surrounding a prisoner must explain what they have been imprisoned for? Instead, Al Jazeera deliberately omitted any information about Barghouti except for his prison sentence – perhaps in order to imply that Israel simply hands out lengthy imprisonments for no good reason to Palestinians.  This omission suggests two points. Firstly, that Al Jazeera recognised that to mention Barghouti’s history would undermine the entire point of their piece – indeed, many viewers might be surprised by how many rights even an unrepentant murderer of civilians gets. And secondly, this means that Al Jazeera were more interested in producing a cheap smear of Israel than actually reporting on the situation.”

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

ZF EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER COMMENTS BY JACK STRAW MP

The ZF today expressed its deep concern over comments made by Jack Straw, Labour MP for Blackburn. Straw, who was previously Foreign Secretary, stated during a meeting in the House of Commons that the “unlimited” funds of Jewish organisations, supposedly used to control American foreign policy, are one of the biggest obstacles to peace in the Middle East.

ZF Chairman Paul Charney argues that:

“Mr Straw’s comments echo some of the oldest and ugliest prejudices about ‘Jewish power’, and go far beyond mere criticism of Israel. They would be unacceptable in any context, but for a sitting Member of Parliament to do so in the House of Commons is especially troubling, given that his status will give credence and respectability to beliefs that would otherwise be dismissed as bigoted nonsense.


“That the statements he made are woefully untrue should be obvious given a moment’s thought about the current state of the Middle East. It has only been through the applied pressure of the American government that Israelis and Palestinians have finally been brought back to the negotiating table. Despite several arguably more pressing concerns, such as instability in Egypt and the civil war in Syria, the US has remained resolute in its commitment to a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict – a resolution which is supported, not opposed, by the organisations he chose to smear.”

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

ZF CALLS FOR THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF HAMAS TUNNEL

The ZF is calling for wider recognition of the implications of the newly-discovered tunnel running from Gaza into Israel. The tunnel, which was built by Hamas, was reinforced with concrete and reportedly 2 and half kilometres long. It’s most likely purpose was to facilitate the kidnapping of Israelis, as suggested by the subsequent statement by a senior Hamas figure:

“The tunnel which was revealed was extremely costly in terms of money, effort and blood. All of this is meaningless when it comes to freeing our heroic prisoners. It would not have been possible to free hundreds of our prisoners without the [Gilad] Shalit tunnel.”

ZF Chairman, Paul Charney, explained the significance:

“Any time there is condemnation of the Gaza blockade, the critics of Israel need to acknowledge that this is the reason why goods cannot be allowed to pass freely into the area. This is the true face of Hamas – an organisation that cares more about kidnapping Israelis than looking after Palestinians. Israel has no interest in denying ordinary Gazans access to everyday materials, which is why it maintains a dedicated border crossing for this purpose. But those who ceaselessly demand that the blockade be dropped altogether must answer how else Israel is supposed to defend its citizens.”

This is especially relevant given that kidnapping attempts by Islamic extremists often prompt fresh bouts of violence. Paul Charney explains:


“Pro-Palestinian supporters should be the first to thank the Israel Defence Forces for uncovering this tunnel, thereby avoiding a terrorist attack and any subsequent response.  Attempts by Hamas to kill, kidnap or otherwise harm Israelis frequently trigger escalations, causing hardship and suffering on both sides. Let’s see if any of them are willing to condemn the construction of this tunnel by Hamas, or if they’ll maintain their silence over its actions as they always do.”

Monday, September 23, 2013

ZF BRIEFING IN BRIGHTON WITH HILIK BAR MK

The ZF hosted a breakfast meeting this morning with Hilik Bar, MK, who was in the country for the Labour Party Conference 

The event, in association with the Sussex Jewish Rep council, was attended by 30 people including ZF patrons, leaders of the Jewish and Christian communities, and Israeli activists.

Hilik, who at 38 is one of the youngest MKs, is a Member of Knesset for the Israel Labour Party, the Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, and the Secretary General of the Labor Party – the youngest person ever to have held the position. Bar has played a crucial role in leading the rehabilitation of the Israeli Labor Party.

He briefed the audience on a number of issues, including the current status of the peace talks. Bar, who is the chair of the Caucus for Ending the Israeli-Arab Conflict, described how in the Knesset today there is a clear majority of MKs (70 out of 120) who favour a two state solution.

Bar also argued that, although Aliya is important and should be encouraged, Israel will always need its Diaspora Jewish communities.


Alan Aziz said that the ZF is extremely proud to have been able to host as high-calibre a speaker as Hilik Bar, who is as passionate an advocate for Israel as he is for peace, and delighted to be able to reach out to different communities and activists across the UK in order to inform and empower those who care deeply about Israel.




Friday, September 13, 2013

ZF CONDEMNS INFLAMMATORY CAMPAIGN BY MAP


The Zionist Federation today condemned in the strongest terms the latest campaign by Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP). The campaign, which debuted in Oxford and Islington this week, focuses on the negative impact of security precautions on Palestinian patients seeking to enter Israel for medical treatment, without providing any necessary context, or mentioning that thousands are admitted every year. The subject of Palestinian violence is wholly absent from MAP’s campaign, giving an incomplete picture as to why Israel maintains security checkpoints, or refuses to grant a minority of Palestinians permits to enter from Gaza and the West Bank. Instead, leaflets, mobile billboards and full-page adverts in papers used emotive imagery and highly selective information to suggest that Israel is deliberately and maliciously trying to prevent Palestinians gaining access to adequate medical support. The truth is the exact opposite, as Paul Charney, ZF Chairman, explained:

“I’m sure many people would be surprised to learn that, despite their history of conflict, thousands of Palestinians travel into Israel every year in order to receive medical treatment. Whilst fringe activists abroad like to demonise Israel for being somehow “racist”, Palestinians in the region know the reality: in Israel they will be treated just like any other patient, irrespective of political differences. Only last year, for example, the brother-in-law of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was one of the many admitted from Gaza for emergency surgery – despite Hamas’ longstanding commitment to violence against Israel. But rather than highlight the positive examples of Israeli-Palestinian interaction, MAP would rather vilify the Jewish state instead.”

The ZF is investigating a variety of avenues to counter the campaign, and will continue to empower its supporters to combat anti-Israel propaganda.


Tuesday, August 13, 2013

ZF STANDS UP TO CAROLINE LUCAS MP

The ZF has recently learnt of attempts by The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) to place pressure on Southern Water to terminate its contract with Israeli company, Arad Group using misguided information.  Arad Group supply world leading water meters to more than 50 countries around the world.   The PSC have persuaded Caroline Lucas MP to join their efforts in attempting to boycott the Israeli company, stating that using Arad water meters is at the expense of Palestinian Human Rights.

We have invited our members, particularly those served by Southern Water to write as appropriate to Southern Water showing their support for Arad Group. Southern Water is required to and subsequently confirmed that they have awarded its contract for the supply of water meters to Arad Group on the basis of economical advantage. The suggestion that Southern Water should use an alternative supplier due to political considerations would be illegal under UK and EU law.

Paul Charney, ZF Chairman, stated that “The call to boycott Arad Group discriminates on the basis of nationality.  This is not only illegal in the UK but certainly immoral to the right minded. We must not allow distortions of the truth to mislead public opinion and ultimately place pressure on misguided politicians to support boycotts of Israel.”


The ZF will make every effort to inform MPs and the public of the truth regarding water supplies. Together with UK Lawyers for Israel, we will provide first hand resources and legal research confirming as such. 

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

ZF CONDEMNS IRISH MEP WHO GLORIFIED TERRORISM

The ZF were appalled by remarks made by Paul Murphy, an Irish socialist MEP, calling for another Palestinian Intifada.

In his statement last week to Russia Today, Mr Murphy stated “You’ve seen significant protest, significant movement, the potential to redevelop a struggle along the lines of the first Intifada”.  Murphy’s remarks are inciting indiscriminate violence against Israeli and Palestinian civilians. His call to armed struggle is irresponsible and dangerous, especially for a man in his position.

Chairman of the ZF, Paul Charney stated “Mr Murphy’s remarks glorifying the Intifada and justifying it as an alternative to peace talks is disgraceful and highly irresponsible. It dangerously incites the masses to violence, at a time in the Middle East where war and terror is all too common. I call on the Irish Socialist Party to deal swiftly with this issue by publicly confirming that they support peace and further condemn Mr Murphy by stating that his comments are unacceptable”.


The ZF will continue to speak out against those glorifying terrorism.  

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

PROSCRIPTION OF HEZBOLLAH MUST GO FURTHER

The ZF and its UK members welcome the news that the EU has agreed to proscribe the military wing of the terrorist group Hezbollah. The ZF, along with many other pro Israel organisations, campaigned for months for Hezbollah to be listed as a terrorist organisation. This involved working with MPs, MEPs and UK Ministers on the issue and producing detailed research. We’d like to thank all our supporters who wrote to their MPs, MEPs, the EU Commission and The Foreign Secretary on the matter.
However, proscribing Hezbollah’s military wing does not effectively counter terrorism. In 2009 Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, stated: “Hezbollah has a single leadership. All political, social and jihad work is tied to the decisions of this leadership”. Consequently, for the EU to thwart global terrorism they should proscribe all wings of Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation. Furthermore, the EU cannot ignore the role of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards who created Hezbollah and have made it the force it is today.
ZF Chairman Paul Charney stated “Whilst I welcome the news that the EU is proscribing some of Hezbollah, I am left questioning what about the rest. Since it is and always has been a single organic terrorist organisation, then how does this help?
The EU has made an irrelevant distinction and should proscribe Hezbollah immediately in its entirety”.

The ZF and all its members will continue to stand up to international terrorism.


Monday, July 22, 2013

ZF EMPOWERS ACTIVISTS TO WRITE

Over 30 ZF activists who had to apply for the courseattended the ZF’S 2013 writing course, run by David Harris. David is an experienced multimedia journalist on Israel and the wider Middle East. During his time as a journalist David has interviewed Tony Blair and Shimon Peres, amongst many others. David is currently the Director of Research and Content for The Israel Project.

During the course people were trained on how best to write Op-Eds, letters, blogs and how to utilise social media effectively to advocate for Israel. The writing course is one of a series of training programs that the ZF offers during the year.

ZF Director, Alan Aziz said “this writing course gave activists the opportunity to realise the power of the written word to be able to tell the truth about Israel. In the constant struggle against those who hate Israel the pen really is mightier than the sword”.

Participant Andrei Voica stated “David Harris gave precious knowledge on how to write an Op-Ed and what are the best tactics to be applied when it comes to using social-media. The ZF team, as always, proved to be outstanding organisers”.

The ZF will continue to train people to stand up for Israel in the UK.


More photos in both high and low resolution available upon request.




  

Friday, July 19, 2013

ZF STATEMENT ON NEWS THAT DAVID WARD MP HAS WHIP WITHDRAWN

“I am pleased to hear that David Ward MP has had his whip withdrawn for two months.  His use of anti-Semitic language veiled in anti-Israel rhetoric has finally been dealt with by his party.
I applaud Lib Dem Chief Whip Alistair Carmichael MP and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg MP for taking this necessary action. Should Mr Ward continue to abuse his position by using it as a platform to broadcast his prejudice against Jews and Israel, then his party should withdraw the whip permanently. This action sends a clear message that racially prejudiced language will not be tolerated in our society”.   

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

ZF WELCOMES NEWS THAT TfL ISRAELI EXLUSION CONDITION REMOVED

“I am pleased to report that following swift public outcry and a ZF chairman’s statement, the Israeli exclusion condition agreed between Emirates Airlines, the UAE official airline, and TfL has since been removed.

As part of the agreement, the Docklands cable car scheme would not be able to receive funding from Israeli owned finance houses, nor could it sell a majority stake to Israeli owned companies.

Thankfully, this oversight has not had any lasting effect on the important trading relationship between the UK and Israel. I firmly support a strong and mutually profitable trading relationship between the two democracies.

I would personally like to thank Sir Peter Hendy from TfL for urgently resolving this matter with Emirates Airlines.

We must remain vigilant against any back-door attempts to boycott Israel in the UK”.


Paul Charney- ZF CHAIRMAN  

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

ZF STATEMENT ON TFL ISRAELI EXCLUSION CONDITION

I am extremely disappointed to hear that Transport for London (TfL) has agreed to an Israeli exclusion condition put forward by the UAE relating to Thames Cable Cars.

As part of the agreement the cable car scheme can not receive funding from Israeli owned finance houses or banks. It also cannot sell a majority stake in the scheme to Israeli owned companies.

This sets a dangerous precedent effectively allowing UAE money to dictate government policy through commercial contracts. Bi-lateral trade has doubled over the past year making Israel one of Britain's key trading partners. This contractual exclusion would not benefit the UK in the long run.

I call on TfL to urgently discuss this matter with foreign and trade ministers and reconsider this agreement before any lasting damage is done” 

Paul Charney- ZF CHAIRMAN

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

A TRIBUTE TO MARGARET THATCHER

Around 100 people, including Marina Yannakoudakis MEP, came to Kinloss Synagogue to hear from Charles Moore about the true story of Lady Thatcher.

Charles, a former editor of the Spectator and Telegraph, was a close confidant of Margaret Thatcher and was asked by her to become her authorised biographer upon her death. He recently released the first volume of his biography 'Not for Turning'.

He spoke knowledgeably of how Margaret’s strong Christian faith meant she had a special place in her heart for the Jewish people. Thatcher claimed her greatest accomplishment was her work alongside her sister Muriel to help save a Jewish teenager in Austria from the Holocaust in 1938.

Margaret Thatcher was a staunch friend of Israel. In 1986 she became the first Prime Minister to make an official state visit to Israel. Moreover, Charles Moore highlighted how during a Cabinet meeting at the height of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, alongside Keith Joseph, she said that the UK Government should support Israel and ignore the Arabist Foreign Office. She was strongly opposed by the then Prime Minister Ted Heath.

Alan Aziz, director of the ZF said “Lady Thatcher stood by Israel and the Jewish people throughout her life. The event at Kinloss Synagogue, where I heard Lady Thatcher speak many times, gave the Jewish community the chance to pay tribute to this”.


Attendee Joel Musongela stated “Her love for the Jewish people gave me a perspective of my own affiliation to Israel and the Jews. It gave me a greater determination to stand against those who spread lies about Israel and the Jewish people”. 

Monday, July 8, 2013

MP SORRY FOR ANTISEMITIC OUTBURST

On Monday 1st July Paul Charney, ZF Chairman, met with Patrick Mercer MP. This meeting was arranged following reports of anti-Semitic remarks made by Mr Mercer.

Mr Mercer gave a heartfelt apology to Mr Charney, the ZF and the entire Jewish community admitting his remarks were thoughtless, stupid and insensitive. Mr Mercer spoke at length to Mr Charney expressing his admiration for Israel and the Jewish people.

Mr Mercer confirmed that he will stand up for Israel in Parliament, which should illustrate his support for both Israel and the Jewish community in the UK.

ZF Chairman Paul Charney stated, “In my meeting with Patrick Mercer it was clear to me that he was deeply sorry for any offence his comments caused.  The ZF accept his apology and will work with him to show that he is a valued friend of Israel and Jewish people”.


The ZF will continue to make Israel ’s voice heard in Parliament.

Monday, July 1, 2013

TRIBUTE TO MARGARET THATCHER

In honour of Margaret Thatcher's support of Israel, both during her time in Parliament as MP for Finchley and Golders Green and as Prime Minister from 1979-1990, the ZF in conjunction with Kinloss Synagogue are holding a tribute night. The venue is Kinloss Synagogue which is poignant as Lady Thatcher spoke there a number of times.

The speaker is former editor of the Spectator and the Telegraph, Charles Moore. Charles was a close confidant of Margaret Thatcher and was asked by her to become her authorised biographer upon her death.  He recently released the first volume of his biography 'Not for Turning'.  During the reception and talk Charles will reveal the woman behind the myth and highlight her connection and support for the Jewish people.

Director of the ZF, Alan Aziz said, "I am honoured to help the Jewish community honour Margaret Thatcher. I personally heard her speak at Kinloss Synagogue when I was younger and we should remember Lady Thatcher's support for Israel shown by the first ever official British state visit to Israel in 1986. Moreover, throughout her life Margaret Thatcher was a vigorous opponent of antisemitism”.


Photos from the event in high and low resolution available upon request. Free press entry available. 

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

ZF PROVES THAT THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD

The ZF (Zionist Federation) is running a writing course on Sunday 21st July 2013 to help Israel advocates do their bit to support Israel in the media. The writing course is being led by David Harris, an experienced multimedia journalist on Israel and the wider Middle East. During his time as a journalist David has interviewed Tony Blair and Shimon Peres, amongst many others. David is currently the Director of Research and Content for The Israel Project.

The 30 people who had to apply to take part in this unique writing course will be expertly trained on how best to write and submit op-eds, top tips for blogging, letter writing and effective use of social media, in particular facebook and twitter.

Executive Director of the ZF, Alan Aziz said, “In the constant battle against delegitimisation of Israel the pen is mightier than the sword. Therefore, the ZF is committed to telling the true message of Israel to the media. Through our writing course we want to give Israel’s UK supporters the tools to make Israel’s case in the press”.

The ZF also holds numerous other training courses designed to help people stand up for Israel in the UK. This includes our Knowledge Seminar that will be taking place in October 2013 and our yearly Spokesperson training course.

David Harris will be available for interview.


Photos in high and low resolution will be available from the writing course. 

Friday, June 14, 2013

ZF HELPS PARAPLEGIC MARATHON HERO VISITS ISRAEL FOR FIRST TIME

Claire Lomas, a paraplegic who completed the London Marathon will be visiting Israel for the first time ever where the technology made this amazing feat possible.

The ReWalk was famously used by Claire Lomas in the 2012 London Marathon, where it took her 16 days to cross the finish line.

In February 2013, as part of the ZF’s (Zionist Federation) Science Week, Claire Lomas had the chance to meet the inventor of the ReWalk suit Amit Goffer. Explaining the difference Goffer’s invention had made to her, Claire said, “It has been the best year of my life - and I never thought that would happen after my accident. I met (London Mayor) Boris Johnson, (Prime Minister) David Cameron and (London 2012 chairman) Seb Coe when I lit the cauldron and I met them all at eye level. You can see a clip from this meeting here, which also shows her completing the London Marathon.

During the ZF trip, alongside 40 other attendees, Claire will have the chance to meet the head of the BBC in Israel, Gilad Shalit and the inventor of the Iron Dome, Brig. Gen. Danny Gold, alongside many other high profile speakers including high profile journalists and politicians.  

Claire will also be visiting the Technion University in Haifa where a lot of the technology for the ReWalk was developed and whilst at Technion will be trialling new technology to help the paralysed. Claire will also be meeting with the company who invented the Rewalk, Argo Medical Technologies.

Executive Director of the ZF, Alan Aziz said “The ZF wanted to give Claire the chance to see the country that helped transform her life and we believed our Israel trip was the perfect way of achieving this”.

Claire will be available for interview in Israel from next week or upon her return. If you would like to cover the story or interview Claire Lomas, please contact our Executive Director Alan Aziz either by his Israeli telephone number 00972526000444 or via email at alan@zfuk.org.


Pictures of Claire Lomas’s visit to Israel will be available in both high resolution and low resolution. If you would like any pictures please contact Alan Aziz.

Monday, June 10, 2013

UK MP’S ANTISEMITIC OUTBURST

The Zionist Federation were shocked to hear of the antisemitism of Patrick Mercer MP during a recent BBC panorama programme. During the documentary Mr Mercer was secretly filmed recounting a story of an encounter with a female IDF soldier. He said he told the soldier “You don’t look like a soldier to me. You look like a bloody Jew”.

Chairman of the ZF, Paul Charney said “disgusting antisemitic remarks like this are completely unacceptable, especially from a member of Parliament. I call on Mr Mercer to make a public apology to Jews worldwide and in particular to the Israeli soldier he insulted”.

The ZF and all its UK members will always speak out against antisemitism.

The ZF will be offering spokespeople to the media.

Stephen Hoffman

Campaigns Officer, Zionist Federation UK
020 8202 0202 / www.zionist.org.uk

Friday, June 7, 2013

INAUGURAL YOUNG PROFESSIONALS PARLIAMENTARY LOBBY

Over 70 young professionals attended the first ever Israel Connect Lobby of Parliament, held in partnership with Christian Friends of Israel (CFI). Those attending heard from 6 MPs including the new chair of Labour Friends of Israel, Anne McGuire, and the Deputy Israeli Ambassador to the UK, Alon-Roth Snir, about their support for Israel. Those attending were also expertly informed about what they can do to support Israel in the UK through lobbying their MP.

Alan Aziz, Director of the ZF said “Alongside our partners at CFI we will continue to reach out to young professionals so that they can speak up for Israel. At a time when Israel needs our support more than ever, those who attended this event to speak up for Israel in Parliament made a real difference. We will continue to ensure that Israel’s voice is heard in Parliament”.

Robin Benson, Head of Communications at CFI and Jacob Vince the Director of CFI stated “Once again Christian Friends of Israel (UK) was privileged and honoured to work alongside the ZF and Israel Connect in supporting the first young adults lobby of Parliament. At this critical time in the history of Israel and the Jewish people it was heartening to have over 70 people coming together in this way”.

John Connolly who attended the event said “It was wonderful to see such cross-party support for Israel. Young friends of Israel, who often have to deal with hostility on campus, should be heartened to see the level of backing we have. I thank the ZF and CFI for bringing young people of all shades of opinion together in supporting Israel".

Photos attached from the event. More pictures available upon request by emailing stephen@zfuk.org. High resolution photos also available.

The ZF through its young professionals branch Israel Connect will continue to bring young people closer to Israel in the UK.








Thursday, May 30, 2013

The Allies: Hezbollah and the EU

Guest post by Peter Mullen - Christian supporter of the state of Israel.
 

I imagined when the other day I suggested that the West’s proposal to arm the Syrian rebels is a mistake, my words would be universally welcomed as a useless statement of the obvious. Well, the same day the EU announced that it would indeed give assistance to the assorted secularist, Sunnis, Salafists and Al Q’aeda fighters, the Russians exhibited newsreel of their firing of advanced SS300 surface-to-air missiles. The next day Russia declared it would supply these weapons to Assad to deter “hotheads” who might be tempted to intervene on Assad’s side. These hotheads are the foreign ministers of the EU.
Grant that the EU’s apparent willingness to supply weapons which will soon fall into the hands of local terrorists is potentially catastrophic, is there nothing that the EU might do which would actually be useful? There is, but they have repeatedly refused to do it. Why don’t the EU ministers declare the Iranian Revolutionary Guard to be what it is, a terrorist organisation, and add it to the their list of proscriptions? There is proof of the IRG’s meddling in Syria where it defends what the EU describes as “the brutal and murderous regime of Bashar Al Assad.” The IRG have been providing fighters, weapons and training to the Assad regime and to Hezbollah, the Iranian proxy terrorist organisation created by the IRG in the 1980s. Hezbollah ,“The Party of Allah,” has helped perpetrate many massacres during the Syrian civil war.

As distinguish between one terrorist organisation and another, we might as well try to judge between a louse and a flea. But this is precisely what the EU does as its policies will greatly assist the Sunni, Salafist and Al Q’aeda terrorists currently waging was in Syria. By refusing to proscribe the IRG, EU foreign ministers are lending the strongest support possible to the dictator Assad whose removal they claim to desire. Thus, their left hand does not know what their right hand is doing. But then, of course, in the EU both hands are Left.  

THE IRG HAS BLOOD ON ITS HANDS IN SYRIA


Recent research carried out by the ZF, as part of our campaign calling on the EU and UK Government to proscribe the IRG (Iranian Revolutionary Guards) as a terrorist group shows definitive proof that the IRG has been active in Syria, defending the brutal and murderous Syrian regime of Bashar Al Assad. You can read our 'IRG in Syria' briefing sheet research here.

The IRG have been providing fighters, weapons and training to the Assad regime and the Iranian proxy terrorist organisation created by the IRG in the 1980s, Hezbollah. This has played a major role in the massacres Assad has carried out against his own people during a bloody civil war and has also led to Assad using groups like the IRG and Hezbollah to attack Israel.
The EU and UK must proscribe the IRG as a terrorist organisation. This would weaken the chances of Syria becoming a place for Iran to launch terror attacks on the UK, other EU nations and Israel. If the EU and UK did this they would be protecting the security of its citizens, standing up to terrorism and choking off funding to the IRG, its supporters and the terrorist groups it aids.
Chairman of the ZF, Paul Charney stated ““We must prevent Syria from becoming a terrorist training camp for Iran and the IRG. This would allow for extremism and violence to spread worldwide especially across the UK and EU. Proscribing the IRG as a terrorist organisation would be a great step towards protecting our national security and would send a firm message in standing up against terrorism”.

You can learn about the ZF campaign here http://www.zionist.org.uk/?page_id=2604 , view our overall campaign briefing sheet calling on the IRG to be listed as a terrorist organisation here, read our press release on the campaign here, like our facebook page here and see our petition here.




Monday, May 13, 2013

BOYCOTTING ISRAEL HARMS THE WORLD


Professor Stephen Hawking has pulled out of a commitment to give a lead lecture at a major international science conference in Israel next month.  The event is also a celebration of the 90th birthday of President Peres. 
Hawking has visited Israel four times. Most recently, in 2006, he delivered public lectures at Israeli and Palestinian universities as the guest of the British Embassy.
Boycotts of Israel like this are discriminatory and demonise the only stable and mature democracy in the Middle East, where the rights of minorities are protected.
Additionally, Israeli expertise is leading to productive partnerships that are helping to change the world for the better. For instance, The Hanquing Foundation, that provides scholarships for outstanding Chinese students, will be providing scholarships of up to $35,000 a year for Chinese students to go to the world leading technological university, Technion in Haifa, Israel. This shows how Israeli expertise is bringing nations worldwide together to the benefit of all. Boycotts endanger this.
Chairman of the ZF Paul Charney said, “Boycotts of Israel are based on hatred and lies, which harm the prospects of peace that are based on dialogue. Much of what we take for granted, like our computers, medicinal drugs or mobile phones are made or designed in Israel, the same products that the BDS movement wants to boycott.”
The ZF and all its UK members will always speak out against these boycotts that delegitimise and would deprive the world of Israel’s significant contributions.  

Thursday, May 9, 2013

46TH ANNIVERSARY OF JERUSALEM DAY MARKED IN THE PRESENCE OF CHIEF RABBI ELECT AND SENIOR MUSLIM CLERIC


To celebrate the 46th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem, The ZF in conjunction with Edgware United Synagogue and the Springboard Trust marked Jerusalem day with a special event.

Over 125 guests saw the first showing of the film produced by the Springboard Trust called ‘Jerusalem and the Temple Mount’. A major person in this film was the renowned historian Martin Gilbert. This short documentary film examines the 3,000 year old connection between the Jewish people and Jerusalem

This event took place in the presence of the Chief Rabbi-elect, Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who said “Jerusalem is the eternal city, the beating heart of the Jewish people”.

Our special guest for the night who came all the way from Rome was Sheikh Imam Abdul Hadi Palazzi, the Secretary General of the Italian Muslim Assembly. He is also the co-chairman of the Islam-Israel Fellowship that seeks to promote a positive Muslim relationship towards Jews and Israel. His speech showcased his strong support for the State of Israel and its sovereignty over Jerusalem.

Alan Aziz, Executive Director of the ZF said “This event reminded us of the importance of Jerusalem. The 46th anniversary of the unification of Jerusalem reminds us of the age old connection of Jerusalem to the Jewish people and how it is central to the state of Israel”.

Edgware United’s Synagogue Chairman, Carroll Raphael said “On 28th Iyar 5727 the city of Jerusalem, previously divided, became one.  Edgware United Synagogue was proud to host this important event for the 46th anniversary of re-unification and wish Jerusalem and its inhabitants Hatzlacha raba”.

The ZF and all its UK members will continue to highlight the centrality of Jerusalem to the Jewish people.

More photos available upon request.


Stephen Hoffman
Campaigns Officer, Zionist Federation UK
020 8202 0202 / www.zionist.org.uk

Paul Charney Letter on the ZF'S Iranian Revolutionary Guards Campaign


Dear Sir,

In light of the recent judgement and conviction of key members of the IRG (Iranian Revolutionary Guards) for its plot in targeting the Israeli Embassy in Kenya, it is clear that the IRG is acting with impunity and freedom in its terrorist activities worldwide.

Considering its major role in assisting Hezbollah in the 2012 attack in Burgas, which killed five Israelis and one Bulgarian, it’s clear that the IRG is an active and dangerous international terrorist organisation. Further, considering its supply of weapons to the Taliban, used to target British servicemen in Afghanistan, one cannot ignore the threat the IRG poses internationally.

Recently the ZF launched a campaign calling on the UK Government and the EU to formally label the IRG as a terrorist group. If the EU and UK refuse to act to proscribe the IRG then this will send a clear message for them to continue to spread terror across Europe and the world.

If you want to take part in our campaign we urge you to write to your MP and MEP on this important matter, as well as sign our petition here http://tinyurl.com/cfgtcvc and read our research on the matter here: http://www.zionist.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IRGbriefing.pdf

Yours sincerely 

Paul Charney
ZF CHAIRMAN 

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

46TH JERUSALEM DAY TO BE CELEBRATED IN THE UK



The Zionist Federation together with Edgware United Synagogue and the Springboard Education Trust will proudly celebrate Jerusalem Day on Tuesday 7th May at 7.30pm in fine style to mark the 46th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem with an evening in Edgware of film, music and food.

The event will be with speakers Chief Rabbi elect Ephraim Mirvis who will stress the centrality of Jerusalem in Jewish life, and Sheikh Abdul Hadi Palazzi the Secretary General of the Italian Muslim Assembly who will say that Jerusalem is the capital city of the Jewish state of Israel. Guests will also see the first showing of Springboard’s new film ‘Jerusalem and the Temple Mount’ featuring historian Sir Martin Gilbert.  This short documentary film examines the 3,000 year old connection between the Jewish people and Jerusalem. 

Alan Aziz, Executive Director of the ZF said “this event is a fitting way to mark the 46th anniversary of the re-unification of Jerusalem, its significance to the Jewish people and why it should never be divided”.

Edgware United’s Synagogue Chairman, Carroll Raphael said “On 28th Iyar 5727 the city of Jerusalem, previously divided, became one.  Edgware United Synagogue is proud to host this important event for the 46th anniversary of re-unification and wish Jerusalem and its inhabitants Hatzlacha raba”.

The ZF and all its UK members will continue to highlight the importance of Jerusalem to the Jewish people.

Photos will be available upon request.

=====================================

SHEIKH  Prof. Dr. ABDUL HADI  PALAZZI
In 1987, Sheikh Abdul Palazzi, after completing religious and secular education in Rome and Cairo has served as Imam to the Italian Islamic Community in Rome.   Holds Ph.D in Islamic Sciences from the Grand Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He has lectured on the History of Religion and wasco-producer of reportages from Middle East for Italy’s public television. He was secretary-general of the Association of Italian Muslims and nowadays he is president of the Italian Muslim Assembly.

Apart from his websites he has published numerous papers and articles and addressed international conferences on a variety of issues on peace in the Middle East and the relations of Muslims and the State of Israel.

Sheikh Palazzi is not only a “Muslim Zionist”.   He also denounces Muslim extremists - the PLO, the Al Aqsa Brigade and their like as perverting authentictraditional Islam.

In 1998, Sheikh Palazzi and Dr. Asher Eder (Jerusalem) co-founded the
Islam-Israel Fellowship which promotes a positive attitude towards Jews and
Israel based on what Sheikh Palazzi believes are the authentic teachings of
Muhammed as expressed in the Koran and Hadith (Muslim oral tradition).
Sheikh Palazzi serves as Muslim co-Chairman of the Fellowship.  Dr. Eder
is the Jewish co-Chairman. 

It is thanks to the Springboard Education Trust that Sheikh Abdul Hadi Palazzi was able to come to the UK and see the film on Jerusalem that the Springboard Education Trust put together.