18th August 2011
The Zionist Federation is shocked and saddened at the news of the terror attacks that have been carried out in Southern Israel today, including on an Egged bus near Eilat. As we wait to learn the full extent of the casualties we can only hope and pray that it is as low as possible.
We call on the Palestinian Authority to condemn this terrorist attack on innocent civilians in the strongest possible terms.
Zionist Federation Chairman, Harvey Rose, stated, “This cowardly attack once again shows the constant threat of terrorism that Israel faces. My thoughts are with the family and friends of those hurt and killed.”
The events of this morning have highlighted, once again, the need to find a long term and secure solution that will bring peace to both Israel and the Palestinians. A negotiated solution must be found and unilateral acts by the Palestinian Authority only hinder the possibility of finding a mutually acceptable agreement that must include the acceptance of Israel as a Jewish State.
The Zionist Federation have spokespeople available for comment and analysis.
Please contact Stefan Kerner, our Director of Public Affairs, on 020 8202 0202 or by email at Stefan@zfuk.org.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
LUSH COSMETICS SUPPORT FREEDOM FOR PALESTINE
Lush Cosmetics – Support for ‘Freedom for Palestine’
Lush Cosmetics are running a campaign on their website in support of OneWorld’s song ‘Freedom for Palestine’. The article on the company’s website includes some appalling bias and falsehoods which need to be addressed.
Below is a link to the relevant section of the company’s site and some highlighted parts of the article. We have also listed a few very simple retorts to these false accusations that have been made.
We are calling on our supporters to contact the company to dispute the stance that they have chosen to take and call for them to withdraw their support for OneWorld. Relevant contact details for the company are listed at the end of this document. When you write your letter please consider the points below but please do not copy and paste them into your draft. It is much more effective if they receive individual letters rather than many with the same wording.
http://www.lush.co.uk/articles/our-ethical-campaigns/oneworld_100-10285_10.html
“Israel’s siege of Gaza has condemned its 1.5 million inhabitants to levels of poverty more commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa – a humanitarian disaster with no end in sight.”
The International Committee of the Red Cross declared that there is no humanitarian crisis in Gaza – April 2011
(http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/red-cross-official-gaza-isn-t-experiencing-a-humanitarian-crisis-1.357268)
Israel sends in thousands of tonnes of supplies into Gaza every single week.
(http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/HumanitarianAid/Palestinians/Humanitarian_and_Civilian_activities_towards_Gaza_Strip_June_monthly_report_2011.htm)
The life expectancy of someone living in Gaza is actually longer than someone living in Glasgow.
(http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/society/health/factcheck+glasgow+worse+than+gaza/2320267.html)
“A third generation of Palestinian children is now being brought up in refugee camps inside and outside Palestine”.
Why are there still refugee camps after 60 years?
Why are Lush not calling for Arab countries to help these children?
The economy of the West Bank is one of the fastest growing in the world.
The West Bank receives the second highest amount of economic aid in the World (http://www.nationmaster.com/country/we-west-bank/eco-economy)
“All the above actions are illegal under International Law”
No they are not. Israel adheres fully to the Geneva Convention on all matters regarding the Palestinians.
Why is there no call in the Lush campaign for Hamas to stop its terrorist activity?
Why is there no comment in the Lush campaign of the Hamas Charter that calls for the destruction of Israel and the killing of Jews?
The OneWorld campaign supported by Lush equates Israel with Apartheid South Africa.
This is a pernicious accusation that is completely false. Israel’s democracy provides for more rights for its minority citizens than most of the neighbouring countries allow for their majority citizens.
Israel has an Arab sitting on the Supreme Court. It has Arab political parties and Members of the Knesset. Israel has no legal restrictions on and allows complete freedom of religion. Israeli Arab citizens are allowed to and do volunteer to serve in the IDF.
How to Contact Lush:
Chief Executive and Founder:
Mark Constantine
18-20 Market Street
Poole
Dorset BH15 1NF
Lush Press Office:
Tel: 020 7434 3948
Email: sean.gifford@lush.co.uk
Customer Care
18-20 Market Street
Poole
Dorset BH15 1NF
Tel: 01202 641 006
customercare@lush.co.uk
Lush Cosmetics are running a campaign on their website in support of OneWorld’s song ‘Freedom for Palestine’. The article on the company’s website includes some appalling bias and falsehoods which need to be addressed.
Below is a link to the relevant section of the company’s site and some highlighted parts of the article. We have also listed a few very simple retorts to these false accusations that have been made.
We are calling on our supporters to contact the company to dispute the stance that they have chosen to take and call for them to withdraw their support for OneWorld. Relevant contact details for the company are listed at the end of this document. When you write your letter please consider the points below but please do not copy and paste them into your draft. It is much more effective if they receive individual letters rather than many with the same wording.
http://www.lush.co.uk/articles/our-ethical-campaigns/oneworld_100-10285_10.html
“Israel’s siege of Gaza has condemned its 1.5 million inhabitants to levels of poverty more commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa – a humanitarian disaster with no end in sight.”
The International Committee of the Red Cross declared that there is no humanitarian crisis in Gaza – April 2011
(http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/red-cross-official-gaza-isn-t-experiencing-a-humanitarian-crisis-1.357268)
Israel sends in thousands of tonnes of supplies into Gaza every single week.
(http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/HumanitarianAid/Palestinians/Humanitarian_and_Civilian_activities_towards_Gaza_Strip_June_monthly_report_2011.htm)
The life expectancy of someone living in Gaza is actually longer than someone living in Glasgow.
(http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/society/health/factcheck+glasgow+worse+than+gaza/2320267.html)
“A third generation of Palestinian children is now being brought up in refugee camps inside and outside Palestine”.
Why are there still refugee camps after 60 years?
Why are Lush not calling for Arab countries to help these children?
The economy of the West Bank is one of the fastest growing in the world.
The West Bank receives the second highest amount of economic aid in the World (http://www.nationmaster.com/country/we-west-bank/eco-economy)
“All the above actions are illegal under International Law”
No they are not. Israel adheres fully to the Geneva Convention on all matters regarding the Palestinians.
Why is there no call in the Lush campaign for Hamas to stop its terrorist activity?
Why is there no comment in the Lush campaign of the Hamas Charter that calls for the destruction of Israel and the killing of Jews?
The OneWorld campaign supported by Lush equates Israel with Apartheid South Africa.
This is a pernicious accusation that is completely false. Israel’s democracy provides for more rights for its minority citizens than most of the neighbouring countries allow for their majority citizens.
Israel has an Arab sitting on the Supreme Court. It has Arab political parties and Members of the Knesset. Israel has no legal restrictions on and allows complete freedom of religion. Israeli Arab citizens are allowed to and do volunteer to serve in the IDF.
How to Contact Lush:
Chief Executive and Founder:
Mark Constantine
18-20 Market Street
Poole
Dorset BH15 1NF
Lush Press Office:
Tel: 020 7434 3948
Email: sean.gifford@lush.co.uk
Customer Care
18-20 Market Street
Poole
Dorset BH15 1NF
Tel: 01202 641 006
customercare@lush.co.uk
Thursday, July 14, 2011
SAR-EL: IDF VOLUNTEERS
SAR-EL July 2011
IDF Volunteers
When the first Lebanon war broke out in 1982, reservists from the north of Israel were called up and as a result, the shortage of manpower on farms became a problem. General Aharon Davidi (former head of the IDF Paratroopers and Infantry Corps) decided to send Shlichim, Israeli representatives to the US to try and recruit volunteers. It was an immediate success and 650 volunteers arrived in Israel. In 1983 Sar-El was born, the name is the Hebrew acronym for Service for Israel. The organisation has grown from strength to strength and today around 4000 volunteers a year come to help the Israeli Army with civilian duties. There are also special youth programmes organised during the summer holidays.
Volunteers come from all four corners of the world: people of all ages, secular and religious, Jews and Christians from every conceivable background. All are committed to doing their share for the Israeli army on a one, two or three week programme, but probably their biggest contribution is the moral support they give to the young soldiers who very much appreciate their presence on camp. Often they ask volunteers the question: “We have to do this, but you?” the answer is that many Jews in the Diaspora feel the need to help support Israel in defending their Jewish homeland. The soldiers also realise that, despite what they hear and see in the world media, they are not alone and that, in their own words: “not everyone hates us”. How sad that some young people who know how much their country contributes to the good of humanity, should feel that way.
I always had a soft spot for the young Israelis who, immediately after having finished their secondary education, were called upon to serve their country. Volunteering to help the IDF was what I wanted to do and I first joined Sar-El in 2002. My doctor had no problem confirming that I was physically fit but had to be convinced that, joining Sar-El at my age, was not a sign a mental disorder. After my security status was approved, I joined my group in Israel at a designated meeting point. I spoke to new apprehensive ‘recruits’ and to some returning Sarelnicks and thought that it was a good sign if people kept coming back.
We were soon divided into groups and sent to our respective bases. Some camps have better facilities than others but one cannot pick and choose because ‘you are in the army now!’ Every group is escorted by soldiers, Madrichim who are in charge of the volunteers for the duration of the programme. After boarding our coach and a short introduction, we were read the Army Rules. The four most important rules are: No alcohol. No drugs. No proselytising. Boys and Girls sleep in separate quarters.
Patience and a well developed sense of humour are a must! On the base, we were first shown to our barracks which usually sleep 4 to 6. We could choose any of the 2 ft 6in wide beds with a 2 ½ inch thick mattress. Oy Vey! But who cares, you only sleep there anyway! No time for unpacking as we are rushed off to get our uniforms – the highlight of the day. Uniforms are laundered but not ironed and they come in four sizes only: too short, too long, too big and too small! Back at the barracks, we slip on our uniform and hope it will fit. Finally, we put on our adjustable belt and secure our cap under the epaulette. Suddenly, a change of mood comes over us, we now stand upright and proud, our laughs are fading and emotions take over – we now really feel part of the country!
The main meal is ‘served’ lunchtime, food is plentiful and usually reasonably tasty, with the compulsory tomato chunks, cucumber slices, humus or tehina and a variety of salads. When at morning or evening mealtime, yogurt is on the menu and no spoons are available, don’t fuss about it. I took advice from a clever young soldier who told me: “don’t struggle with a fork, just drink your yogurt”. Also remember to clear up after yourself, it’s every man for himself.
The work varies from folding uniforms to checking gas masks, from painting to sorting out medical supplies, depending on what is needed at the time. The work can sometimes be repetitive and boring but it needs to be done. The more demanding physical jobs are usually given to strapping young men.
We were to remain on the base all week and there would be no wandering out on shopping expeditions. Back at the barracks, unpacking is quick as there is very little storage space. I found my padlock, enabling me to lock away my valuables when the cleaners would come to do the room – I soon discovered we were the cleaners.
The next morning, we joined the regular soldiers on the parade ground. We stood at ease, then to attention, then at ease again and I was honoured with raising the flag. I was overwhelmed. I could hear my heart beat as I ran up the flag. Tears rolled down my cheeks and I felt a knot in my throat when we sang the HaTikvah while I stood to attention next to our flag.
On another base, the project for our group of ten was to paint certain areas and re-arrange the plants to produce an instant manicured garden ready for the welcome reception for the new base Commander. It worked like a military operation! The next day, the officer in charge called us together around a table bedecked with drinks, biscuits and fruit. He thanked us profusely in Hebrew and finished with “Atem tsevet min haShamaim”, “You are a team from Heaven”.
When my friend Renata heard that the volunteers had to share one nearly bald broom, she immediately donated her brand new one to the IDF. As I returned to base, carrying the broom on my shoulder as one would carry a rifle, an appropriate Yiddish saying came to mind: “Az Gott vill, schiest a Beizim!”, “If God wills it, even a broom can shoot!”
Each time spent at Sar-El is a different ‘adventure’, has a different ‘flavour’ and awakens different emotions, but the ‘good-feeling’ for the Neshama, the soul, the camaraderie and the good humour never change.
Yom HaAtzmaut – May 2011
Today I am a seasoned volunteer and my yearly stint at Sar-El is a privilege. The apprehension of the unknown is replaced by far more important thoughts, such as, will the kitbags we are filling or the medicines we are packing, be used on active duty?
We, Sar-El volunteers support the IDF because WE ARE PART OF “AM ISRAEL”.
Michèle Katz
London
If you think you would like to partake in the Sar-El experience, please visit their website at www.sar-el.org where you will find all the necessary information or contact Jennie Goldstone on sarelvolunteers@btinternet.com
IDF Volunteers
When the first Lebanon war broke out in 1982, reservists from the north of Israel were called up and as a result, the shortage of manpower on farms became a problem. General Aharon Davidi (former head of the IDF Paratroopers and Infantry Corps) decided to send Shlichim, Israeli representatives to the US to try and recruit volunteers. It was an immediate success and 650 volunteers arrived in Israel. In 1983 Sar-El was born, the name is the Hebrew acronym for Service for Israel. The organisation has grown from strength to strength and today around 4000 volunteers a year come to help the Israeli Army with civilian duties. There are also special youth programmes organised during the summer holidays.
Volunteers come from all four corners of the world: people of all ages, secular and religious, Jews and Christians from every conceivable background. All are committed to doing their share for the Israeli army on a one, two or three week programme, but probably their biggest contribution is the moral support they give to the young soldiers who very much appreciate their presence on camp. Often they ask volunteers the question: “We have to do this, but you?” the answer is that many Jews in the Diaspora feel the need to help support Israel in defending their Jewish homeland. The soldiers also realise that, despite what they hear and see in the world media, they are not alone and that, in their own words: “not everyone hates us”. How sad that some young people who know how much their country contributes to the good of humanity, should feel that way.
I always had a soft spot for the young Israelis who, immediately after having finished their secondary education, were called upon to serve their country. Volunteering to help the IDF was what I wanted to do and I first joined Sar-El in 2002. My doctor had no problem confirming that I was physically fit but had to be convinced that, joining Sar-El at my age, was not a sign a mental disorder. After my security status was approved, I joined my group in Israel at a designated meeting point. I spoke to new apprehensive ‘recruits’ and to some returning Sarelnicks and thought that it was a good sign if people kept coming back.
We were soon divided into groups and sent to our respective bases. Some camps have better facilities than others but one cannot pick and choose because ‘you are in the army now!’ Every group is escorted by soldiers, Madrichim who are in charge of the volunteers for the duration of the programme. After boarding our coach and a short introduction, we were read the Army Rules. The four most important rules are: No alcohol. No drugs. No proselytising. Boys and Girls sleep in separate quarters.
Patience and a well developed sense of humour are a must! On the base, we were first shown to our barracks which usually sleep 4 to 6. We could choose any of the 2 ft 6in wide beds with a 2 ½ inch thick mattress. Oy Vey! But who cares, you only sleep there anyway! No time for unpacking as we are rushed off to get our uniforms – the highlight of the day. Uniforms are laundered but not ironed and they come in four sizes only: too short, too long, too big and too small! Back at the barracks, we slip on our uniform and hope it will fit. Finally, we put on our adjustable belt and secure our cap under the epaulette. Suddenly, a change of mood comes over us, we now stand upright and proud, our laughs are fading and emotions take over – we now really feel part of the country!
The main meal is ‘served’ lunchtime, food is plentiful and usually reasonably tasty, with the compulsory tomato chunks, cucumber slices, humus or tehina and a variety of salads. When at morning or evening mealtime, yogurt is on the menu and no spoons are available, don’t fuss about it. I took advice from a clever young soldier who told me: “don’t struggle with a fork, just drink your yogurt”. Also remember to clear up after yourself, it’s every man for himself.
The work varies from folding uniforms to checking gas masks, from painting to sorting out medical supplies, depending on what is needed at the time. The work can sometimes be repetitive and boring but it needs to be done. The more demanding physical jobs are usually given to strapping young men.
We were to remain on the base all week and there would be no wandering out on shopping expeditions. Back at the barracks, unpacking is quick as there is very little storage space. I found my padlock, enabling me to lock away my valuables when the cleaners would come to do the room – I soon discovered we were the cleaners.
The next morning, we joined the regular soldiers on the parade ground. We stood at ease, then to attention, then at ease again and I was honoured with raising the flag. I was overwhelmed. I could hear my heart beat as I ran up the flag. Tears rolled down my cheeks and I felt a knot in my throat when we sang the HaTikvah while I stood to attention next to our flag.
On another base, the project for our group of ten was to paint certain areas and re-arrange the plants to produce an instant manicured garden ready for the welcome reception for the new base Commander. It worked like a military operation! The next day, the officer in charge called us together around a table bedecked with drinks, biscuits and fruit. He thanked us profusely in Hebrew and finished with “Atem tsevet min haShamaim”, “You are a team from Heaven”.
When my friend Renata heard that the volunteers had to share one nearly bald broom, she immediately donated her brand new one to the IDF. As I returned to base, carrying the broom on my shoulder as one would carry a rifle, an appropriate Yiddish saying came to mind: “Az Gott vill, schiest a Beizim!”, “If God wills it, even a broom can shoot!”
Each time spent at Sar-El is a different ‘adventure’, has a different ‘flavour’ and awakens different emotions, but the ‘good-feeling’ for the Neshama, the soul, the camaraderie and the good humour never change.
Yom HaAtzmaut – May 2011
Today I am a seasoned volunteer and my yearly stint at Sar-El is a privilege. The apprehension of the unknown is replaced by far more important thoughts, such as, will the kitbags we are filling or the medicines we are packing, be used on active duty?
We, Sar-El volunteers support the IDF because WE ARE PART OF “AM ISRAEL”.
Michèle Katz
London
If you think you would like to partake in the Sar-El experience, please visit their website at www.sar-el.org where you will find all the necessary information or contact Jennie Goldstone on sarelvolunteers@btinternet.com
Thursday, June 30, 2011
FLOTILLA FACTS - SUMMER 2011
Flotilla Violates International Law,
Intends To Provoke Violent Confrontation
Last year, anti-Israel extremists and Turkish jihadists organized a flotilla to violate Israel’s naval blockade of Hamas-controlled Gaza. The Israeli Navy redirected five of the boats to the Israeli port of Ashdod without incident. However, those on the sixth boat refused to cooperate. When Israeli officers boarded the ship, the Turkish jihadists brutally attacked them with knives, metal bars, and guns. Nine jihadists were killed.
This year, the same anti-Israel extremists are planning another international flotilla battalion. They plan to set sail at the end of June with an estimated 10 to 15 ships with 1,000 to 4,000 passengers from 32 countries, purportedly to bring humanitarian goods to Gaza. International leaders, from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to the EU, have urged the organizers to cancel the flotilla. (You can read some of their comments below.)
Nine basic facts about the flotilla:
1. The flotilla organizers blatantly violate international law by trying to breach a legal maritime blockade. According to international and customary law, Israel has the legal right to impose a land and naval blockade on Hamas-controlled Gaza. Hamas is openly dedicated to Israel’s destruction, has been in an ongoing state of armed conflict against Israel, and has fired over 10,000 rockets into Israeli civilian centers. Israel has the legal right and responsibility to protect its citizens by inspecting goods entering Gaza to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.
2. The flotilla organizers intend to aid and support Hamas, which is designated a terrorist organization by members of the international community, including the U.S., Canada, Israel, the EU, Japan, and Jordan. Hamas’ founding document calls for the murder of Jews, the “obliteration” of Israel, and Israel’s replacement with an Islamist theocracy.
3. The flotilla organizers are trying to provoke a violent confrontation. If they were sincerely concerned about humanitarian aid for Gazans, they would deliver it through official Israeli entry points. Israel has repeatedly offered to deliver goods after officially inspecting them for weapons. The organizers have refused to comply. Instead, they hope their provocative, hostile breach of the blockade will compel Israel to use force and make Israel look like an aggressor.
4. Gazans are not facing a humanitarian emergency that justifies breaching the blockade. Humanitarian and consumer goods enter Gaza on a daily basis. UN officials repeatedly confirm that there is an ample supply of food and consumer goods. Israel only limits the entry of dual-purpose goods that could be used for weapons. International statistics indicate that Gazans have a higher standard of living than people in nearly all of Africa, including South Africa, as well as parts of Asia and the Middle East. In fact, Gaza faces a glut of goods, not a shortage of goods, according to recent press reports.
5. Hamas, not Israel, has caused the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. Hamas has chosen war against Israel instead of peaceful coexistence. It has imposed a repressive, dictatorial, fundamentalist regime on Gaza residents and has murdered its political rivals.
6. Flotilla organizers claim to be “nonviolent peace activists” and “human rights activists.” They are not. They are members of extremist organizations that support terrorist groups and are dedicated to the destruction of Israel. The Free Gaza Movement is an affiliate of the International Solidarity Movement, which opposes the existence of the Jewish state. The IHH (Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation) is a Turkish Islamist organization with links to jihadist organizations in Bosnia, Syria, Iraq, Libya, and elsewhere.
7. If flotilla organizers really were peace and human rights activists, they would not go to Gaza but to Libya or Syria, where the brutal Assad regime has arrested, tortured, and murdered thousands of nonviolent, freedom-seeking demonstrators and has caused thousands of others to become refugees.
8. The flotilla organizers are violating, not upholding, one of the most fundamental human rights—a nation’s right and responsibility to protect itself from enemies bent on murdering its citizens and destroying its state.
“As a country, we will never tolerate our security being threatened, nor stand idly by when our people have been killed. We will be relentless in defense of our citizens.” —U.S. President Barack Obama, May 1, 2011
9. International leaders oppose the flotilla.
U.S.: “[G]roups and individuals who seek to break Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza are taking irresponsible and provocative actions. … We want to just reiterate that there are established and efficient mechanisms for getting humanitarian assistance through to Gaza.” —U.S. State Department Spokesman Mark Toner, June 1, 2011
UN: “The secretary-general called on all governments concerned to use their influence to discourage such flotillas, which carry the potential to escalate into violent conflict.” —Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, May 27, 2011
Canada: “Unauthorized efforts to deliver aid are provocative and, ultimately, unhelpful to the people of Gaza. Canada recognizes Israel’s legitimate security concerns and its right to protect itself and its residents from attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups, including by preventing the smuggling of weapons.”
— Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird, May 28, 2011
France: “[T]he boarding of any naval vessels which are known to have the intention of breaking the naval blockade imposed on Gaza is strongly discouraged, given the security risks associated with such an undertaking.” —Official Statement
EU: “I don’t consider a flotilla to be the right response.” —Catherine Ashton, EU High Commissioner for Foreign Policy
Turkey: “We are reconsidering our plans [about participating in the flotilla]. … From our point of view, the developments in neighboring Syria are critically important.” —IHH Board Member Hüseyin Oruç, June 14
With thanks to ‘StandWithUS’
Intends To Provoke Violent Confrontation
Last year, anti-Israel extremists and Turkish jihadists organized a flotilla to violate Israel’s naval blockade of Hamas-controlled Gaza. The Israeli Navy redirected five of the boats to the Israeli port of Ashdod without incident. However, those on the sixth boat refused to cooperate. When Israeli officers boarded the ship, the Turkish jihadists brutally attacked them with knives, metal bars, and guns. Nine jihadists were killed.
This year, the same anti-Israel extremists are planning another international flotilla battalion. They plan to set sail at the end of June with an estimated 10 to 15 ships with 1,000 to 4,000 passengers from 32 countries, purportedly to bring humanitarian goods to Gaza. International leaders, from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to the EU, have urged the organizers to cancel the flotilla. (You can read some of their comments below.)
Nine basic facts about the flotilla:
1. The flotilla organizers blatantly violate international law by trying to breach a legal maritime blockade. According to international and customary law, Israel has the legal right to impose a land and naval blockade on Hamas-controlled Gaza. Hamas is openly dedicated to Israel’s destruction, has been in an ongoing state of armed conflict against Israel, and has fired over 10,000 rockets into Israeli civilian centers. Israel has the legal right and responsibility to protect its citizens by inspecting goods entering Gaza to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.
2. The flotilla organizers intend to aid and support Hamas, which is designated a terrorist organization by members of the international community, including the U.S., Canada, Israel, the EU, Japan, and Jordan. Hamas’ founding document calls for the murder of Jews, the “obliteration” of Israel, and Israel’s replacement with an Islamist theocracy.
3. The flotilla organizers are trying to provoke a violent confrontation. If they were sincerely concerned about humanitarian aid for Gazans, they would deliver it through official Israeli entry points. Israel has repeatedly offered to deliver goods after officially inspecting them for weapons. The organizers have refused to comply. Instead, they hope their provocative, hostile breach of the blockade will compel Israel to use force and make Israel look like an aggressor.
4. Gazans are not facing a humanitarian emergency that justifies breaching the blockade. Humanitarian and consumer goods enter Gaza on a daily basis. UN officials repeatedly confirm that there is an ample supply of food and consumer goods. Israel only limits the entry of dual-purpose goods that could be used for weapons. International statistics indicate that Gazans have a higher standard of living than people in nearly all of Africa, including South Africa, as well as parts of Asia and the Middle East. In fact, Gaza faces a glut of goods, not a shortage of goods, according to recent press reports.
5. Hamas, not Israel, has caused the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. Hamas has chosen war against Israel instead of peaceful coexistence. It has imposed a repressive, dictatorial, fundamentalist regime on Gaza residents and has murdered its political rivals.
6. Flotilla organizers claim to be “nonviolent peace activists” and “human rights activists.” They are not. They are members of extremist organizations that support terrorist groups and are dedicated to the destruction of Israel. The Free Gaza Movement is an affiliate of the International Solidarity Movement, which opposes the existence of the Jewish state. The IHH (Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation) is a Turkish Islamist organization with links to jihadist organizations in Bosnia, Syria, Iraq, Libya, and elsewhere.
7. If flotilla organizers really were peace and human rights activists, they would not go to Gaza but to Libya or Syria, where the brutal Assad regime has arrested, tortured, and murdered thousands of nonviolent, freedom-seeking demonstrators and has caused thousands of others to become refugees.
8. The flotilla organizers are violating, not upholding, one of the most fundamental human rights—a nation’s right and responsibility to protect itself from enemies bent on murdering its citizens and destroying its state.
“As a country, we will never tolerate our security being threatened, nor stand idly by when our people have been killed. We will be relentless in defense of our citizens.” —U.S. President Barack Obama, May 1, 2011
9. International leaders oppose the flotilla.
U.S.: “[G]roups and individuals who seek to break Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza are taking irresponsible and provocative actions. … We want to just reiterate that there are established and efficient mechanisms for getting humanitarian assistance through to Gaza.” —U.S. State Department Spokesman Mark Toner, June 1, 2011
UN: “The secretary-general called on all governments concerned to use their influence to discourage such flotillas, which carry the potential to escalate into violent conflict.” —Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, May 27, 2011
Canada: “Unauthorized efforts to deliver aid are provocative and, ultimately, unhelpful to the people of Gaza. Canada recognizes Israel’s legitimate security concerns and its right to protect itself and its residents from attacks by Hamas and other terrorist groups, including by preventing the smuggling of weapons.”
— Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird, May 28, 2011
France: “[T]he boarding of any naval vessels which are known to have the intention of breaking the naval blockade imposed on Gaza is strongly discouraged, given the security risks associated with such an undertaking.” —Official Statement
EU: “I don’t consider a flotilla to be the right response.” —Catherine Ashton, EU High Commissioner for Foreign Policy
Turkey: “We are reconsidering our plans [about participating in the flotilla]. … From our point of view, the developments in neighboring Syria are critically important.” —IHH Board Member Hüseyin Oruç, June 14
With thanks to ‘StandWithUS’
Thursday, June 2, 2011
ZIONIST FEDERATION CONDEMNS UCU
The Zionist Federation is disgusted by UCU's attempt to redefine the definition of antisemitism. Under the MacPherson Definition of 'Racism', every minority has the right to identify what constitutes racism against it.
The ZF further condemns UCU's illegal and discriminatory "Threats to academic freedom in Israel and Palestine" motion passed on 29th May, promoting an academic and cultural boycott of Israel and prompting the circulation of pro-boycott materials. As noted by Academic Friends of Israel, the motion is "in breach of discrimination and equality legislation and also outside the aims and objects of the union".
By passing this motion, the University and College Union has confirmed that it is institutionally antisemitic.
We note the lengths that the Union will go to in order to pursue its highly questionable political agenda
The ZF urges University Vice-Chancellors to withdraw from negotiations with UCU until this blatantly racist vote is rescinded.
For further information / quote / spokesperson:
Zionist Federation
020 8202 0202
gary@zfuk.org
Outside of office hours: urgent@zfuk.org
The ZF further condemns UCU's illegal and discriminatory "Threats to academic freedom in Israel and Palestine" motion passed on 29th May, promoting an academic and cultural boycott of Israel and prompting the circulation of pro-boycott materials. As noted by Academic Friends of Israel, the motion is "in breach of discrimination and equality legislation and also outside the aims and objects of the union".
By passing this motion, the University and College Union has confirmed that it is institutionally antisemitic.
We note the lengths that the Union will go to in order to pursue its highly questionable political agenda
The ZF urges University Vice-Chancellors to withdraw from negotiations with UCU until this blatantly racist vote is rescinded.
For further information / quote / spokesperson:
Zionist Federation
020 8202 0202
gary@zfuk.org
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Friday, May 20, 2011
Thursday, May 12, 2011
NEW ZF STYLE YOM HA’ATZMAUT EVENT IS A SELL OUT SUCCESS
After many years of traditional Yom Ha’atzmaut Concerts, the ZF decided to host a huge party at Alexandra Palace for ISRAEL 63. This enabled guests to be able to sing and dance in a true 'CHAGIGA' style event -
just like the events that happen all over Israel on Yom Ha’atzmaut.
Einat Sarouf, who is known in Israel as the energy queen in Israel, headed up the entertainment assisted by 4 other singers and a choir of 100 children from Matlida Marks, Akiva and Sinai Schools.
Over 1000 people attended this sell out event.
Alan Aziz, ZF Director and executive producer of the event said "I am delighted that the new style of event was such a success - It is so important during these difficult times that we celebrate Israel’s Birthday properly and with pride”.
just like the events that happen all over Israel on Yom Ha’atzmaut.
Einat Sarouf, who is known in Israel as the energy queen in Israel, headed up the entertainment assisted by 4 other singers and a choir of 100 children from Matlida Marks, Akiva and Sinai Schools.
Over 1000 people attended this sell out event.
Alan Aziz, ZF Director and executive producer of the event said "I am delighted that the new style of event was such a success - It is so important during these difficult times that we celebrate Israel’s Birthday properly and with pride”.
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