February 2006

What aid cutoff to Hamas would mean

David R. Francis 27 February 2006


The US provides about one-third of the nearly $1.1 billion in aid to the Palestinians. The Palestinians are the most foreign-aid dependent society on earth. So the threat by the United States to cut off most aid to Palestine after its 3.6 million people last month elected the militant group Hamas into government, is foreboding. Should Palestinians obtain an independent nation, its economic viability remains an open question. But until then, under the 4th Geneva Convention of 1949, an occupying power is responsible for the welfare of those whose territory is being occupied. Providing no aid, “Israel is not in compliance,” says Mr. Abunimah. 

Weekly report on human rights violations

24 February 2006


This week Israeli forces killed five Palestinians, including two children, in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. At least 42 Palestinians, including 25 children, two women and an international solidarity activist, were wounded by Israeli troops in the West Bank. Israeli forces continued to shell Palestinian areas in the Gaza Strip, an infant was seriously injured. Israel conducted 31 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and invaded Nablus and Balata refugee camp. Houses were raided and 79 Palestinian civilians, including 26 children, were arrested. Israeli forces turned six Palestinian homes into military posts. Israel continued to impose a total siege on the occupied Palestinian territories. 

Balata refugee camp under attack

Adri Nieuwhof and Walid Abdelhadi 25 February 2006


The weekly reports of the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights tell the frightening story of the Israeli occupation In its latest report of the week from 16 till 22 February 2006 it is mentioned that Balata refugee camp was invaded. Israeli troops “willfully killed two Palestinian children in Balata refugee camp, east of Nablus.” Most of the over thirty incursions took pace in Nablus and the neighbouring Balata refugee camp, killing three Palestinians, wounding thirty six civilians and arresting at least thirteen people. A number of houses were transformed into military sites. Adri Nieuwhof and Walid Abdelhadi researched the story behind the figures of the weekly report on the ground. 

UN agency aiding Palestinians says Israeli forces left behind damage in schools

23 February 2006


The main United Nations agency helping Palestinian refugees reported today that Israeli forces left significant damage behind after occupying two schools in the Balata refugee camp in the West Bank town of Nablus earlier this week. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said it had compiled a list of damages, including broken doors and windows as well as waste materials left in the schools. Agency officials plan to discuss the issue with the Israeli Foreign Ministry. UNRWA reported on Monday that Israeli forces had occupied two schools it runs in the camps and blocked a health clinic, which prevented patients or staff from leaving the building. 

Photostory: Freedom Theatre in Jenin aims to plant seeds of dignity

Maureen Clare Murphy 24 February 2006


The spirit of resistance has not been beaten out of Jenin, was the message at the opening of the Freedom Theatre in Jenin refugee camp last weekend. Calls by speakers for the Palestinians to stand firm despite Israeli and American pressure resonated with the crowd, men on one side of the hall and women and children on the other. On one of the walls of the theatre hangs a series of photographs of the original theatre created by the late Arna Mer Khamis. Witnessing the devastating affects of the first intifada on children, Arna created a series of creative programmes to give beleaguered Palestinian children a means of expressing themselves. 

Palestinian death toll from Israeli assault rises in Balata refugee camp

23 February 2006


Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) continued their military operations in Balata refugee camp and the eastern part of Nablus for the 5th consecutive day. On Thursday, February 23, Israeli forces killed five Palestinians, including three in an extra-judicial assassination. Israeli troops with thirty military vehicles resumed military operations in Balata refugee camp and the eastern part of Nablus. Helicopter gunships provided aerial support for Israeli ground forces. Israeli troops embarked on a house-to-house search in the area. Israeli troops shot at Palestinian youth and targeted medical personnel, fired at an ambulance. 

Gunmen storm the Rafah Governorate and the Khan Yunis Municipality

21 February 2006


A group of twenty gunmen from the “Al-Yasir Brigades”, affiliated with Fatah, stormed the Rafah Governorate building in protest to the appointment of Zuhdi El-Qedra as the new governor of Rafah. El-Qedra, who is from Khan Yunis, was appointed to succeed Majied El-Agha, who was elected as a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council for the Khan Yunis district and represents Fatah. The gunmen requested Mahmoud Abbas to reconsider the appointment. Another armed group affiliated with Fatah stormed the Khan Yunis municipality building. This took place after the municipality had refused to provide the group with a bulldozer to level an area of land near the old Khan Yunis municipality butcher house, which the group intends to take over and turn into an outpost. 

As crises mount, EU's Solana sky high on travel perks

22 February 2006


EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana marked a breakthrough for his diplomatic efforts in the Middle East when he achieved Gold status in the British Airways Executive Club, a popular frequent flyer, program on Thursday, reports BNN Europe correspondent Agathe de Pauwer. As EU policy failures in the Middle East mount, Solana is racking up massive amounts of travel perks. A back-slapping chum of Israel’s leaders, Solana is also new member of the El Al frequent flyer program. “As Middle East tension mounts,” a giddy Solana said, “there is nothing to relieve the stress like a shiatswe massage and a facial scrub before a flight.” 

Punishing Hamas is punishing the Palestinian people

Hasan Abu Nimah 22 February 2006


Israel claims, as it did years ago with the PLO, that it will not negotiate with anyone who does not recognize its “right to exist”. But for the past five years, writes EI contributor Hasan Abu Nimah, the Fatah-led PA, which recognizes Israel and opposes armed struggle has begged Israel for negotiations to no avail. The implementation of the two-state solution has not been blocked by Hamas or its violence, or its reluctance to recognize signed agreements. The main obstacle is Israel’s placement of 400,000 settlers throughout the West Bank in a manner calculated to preclude an Israeli withdrawal. It’s time for the international community to recognize this and change its hypocritical approach. 

Israeli forces launched military attack on Nablus

21 February 2006


The city of Nablus and Balata refugee camp have been subject to a large-scale Israeli military operation for the past three days. Three Palestinians, including 2 children, have already been killed during these operations. Another 30 have been injured, some seriously. Severe restrictions on the movement of civilians have also been imposed. On Sunday, February 19th, Israeli forces, supported by armoured vehicles and helicopter gunships, moved into the city of Nablus and the nearby Balata refugee camp. Israeli forces went from house to house in the refugee camp. Over the course of the following two days, Israeli forces sent reinforcements into the city. 

"This House believes that Zionism is a danger to the Jewish people"

Ben White 20 February 2006


In a full chamber, the Cambridge Union last Thursday hosted the motion ‘This House believes that Zionism is a danger to the Jewish people”, an event labelled a “Jewish blood sport” by participant Ned Temko. The motion, which was carried by a small margin, was a good chance for Zionist apologists and their critics to showcase the best of their arguments. Brian Klug, speaking in favour of the motion alongside Israeli journalist Daphna Baram and Chair of Jews for Justice for Palestinians Richard Kuper, opened the proceedings. One of the recurrent themes of the evening were the repeated attempts to specify what this debate was not, with Klug pointing out that specific historical narratives, or potential future solutions, were not on the agenda. 

First Museum-quality Exhibition of Contemporary Palestinian Art to open in New York City on March 14th, 2006

20 February 2006


Made in Palestine is the first museum-quality exhibition devoted to the contemporary art of Palestine to be held in the United States. It is a survey of work spanning three generations of Palestinian artists who live in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, parts of Israel, Syria, Jordan, and the United States. “A rare opportunity to view contemporary art from Palestine… What these artists add to our minds’ images of destruction and despair from this troubled region is an underlying sense of consciousness,strength and hope, both in themselves and their people.” - ArtvsHouston Gallery Review 

Freedom Theatre to open in Jenin refugee camp

18 February 2006


Final preparations are under way for the opening of the Jenin refugee camp Freedom Theatre. The Freedom Theatre, inspired by activities initiated by Arna Mer-Khamis during the first Intifada, was established by residents of the Jenin refugee camp in cooperation with Palestinian activists and artists from Haifa and the Galilee, as well as activists from Sweden and Britain. The Freedom Theatre, a registered non-governmental organization, is planning on establishing within the near future a community-based cultural center that will house a large theatre, rehearsal rooms, a music studio, and a library. 

EI on WBEZ: Israel Should Recognize Moderate Hamas Rhetoric

17 February 2006


EI’s Ali Abunimah was a guest on today’s Worldview program on WBEZ, Chicago Public Radio to discuss Israel’s relationship with the newly democratically-elected Palestinian Authority, headed by Hamas. WBEZ is a community-supported, non-commercial public service broadcasting institution, broadcasting throughout Chicago and surrounding regions, reaching 600,000 listeners each week. 

British architects and planners boycott Israeli construction companies

16 February 2006


Last week, a group of sixty prominent British architects and planners has threatened to boycott the Israeli construction industry over the erection of the security fence and practices in the occupied territories. Following a meeting hosted at the offices of Lord Rogers, the architect behind the Millenium Dome and the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Architects and Planners for Justice in Palestine announced its plan to take action against Israel. The Foundation for Achieving Seamless Territory (F.A.S.T.) welcomes this call and sees it as a personal and professional responsibility to fully support this call and welcomes the discussion on the role of Israeli architects and planners in sustaining the Israeli colonization of Palestinian land. 

Final session of outgoing Palestinian legislators criticized

16 February 2006


The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights followed with great interest and concern the proceedings of the final session of the outgoing PLC, held on 13 February 2006. This session was held 5 days before the scheduled constitutional oath taking of the new PLC, and 18 days following the election of a new PLC, signaling the transfer of delegation by voters from the old to the new PLC. PCHR expresses astonishment by the passing of new laws and taking new decisions at this time, which raises doubts over the true motives behind the session. The timing of the session contradicts with customary traditions in democratic systems. 

Weekly report on human rights violations

16 February 2006


This week Israeli forces killed two Palestinian civilians, a woman and a disabled young man, in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Israeli forces wounded 13 Palestinians, including seven children. Israeli forces conducted incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. Houses were raided and 83 Palestinian civilians were arrested by Israeli forces. Ten Palestinian homes were turned into military posts. Israeli forces shelled an apartment building in the northern part of the Gaza Strip. Israel continues to impose a total siege on the occupied Palestinian territories. The eastern part of the West Bank was cut off from the rest. Israeli forces arrested 11 Palestinians, including four children at checkpoints in the West Bank. 

Local NGO's: "Respect of election results is the only way forward"

16 February 2006


International reactions to Hamas’ election victory in the occupied Palestinian territories, in particular statements issued by the United States, the EU and the Quartet, have been very disappointing. Palestinian NGO’s issued a statement in which they expressed concern about “”preparations by the Israeli government to disconnect ties with the Hamas-led Palestinian Authority” which, according to Israeli media reports, may include measures that constitute collective punishment of the Palestinian people. They call on donor governments to abstain from conditioning support of the PA with recognition of Israel by Hamas in light of the fact that mutual recognition and agreements are the mandate of the PLO and not the PA. 

Research shows that Israel has effectively annexed the Jordan Valley

13 February 2006


Israel imposes severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinians in the Jordan Valley, the eastern strip of the West Bank, which it has in effect annexed. This is the finding of B’Tselem’s recent research. As a rule, the army forbids the entry of Palestinians to the Jordan Valley, and only allows entry of those Palestinians listed as residents of this area. Severing the Jordan Valley from the rest of the West Bank severely violates the human rights of the Palestinian population. These measures were taken without any government decision or notice to the public. Testimonies given to B’Tselem indicate that the IDF forbids the movement of Palestinians along Route 90, which runs the length of the Jordan Valley. 

Supreme Court Dismisses Criminal Charges Against Knesset Member Azmi Bishara

14 February 2006


On 1 February 2006, the Supreme Court of Israel, in a 2 to 1 split decision, accepted a petition submitted by Adalah, ruling illegal the Israeli Knesset’s 2001 vote to strip Member of Knesset Dr. Azmi Bishara of his parliamentary immunity, and dismissed all criminal charges against him. Commenting on the Court’s decision, Adalah’s director Hassan Jabareen stated that, “the Supreme Court’s decision is the culmination of a legal struggle against the authorities’ attempts, mainly by the former Attorney General and the General Security Services, to violate the fundamental right of political representation. This legal triumph, however, is only another step for the Arab minority in its quest to achieve a liberated, dignified and equal existence in the country.” 

Aid Agencies call upon donor governments to continue providing aid to the Palestinian people

13 February 2006


While the international community reacts to the recent Palestinian Legislative Council elections, international aid agencies stress that the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories remains grave, and may even deteriorate further if current and additional humanitarian and development activities are jeopardized. The humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and their children have not changed as a result of recent political developments. International development and humanitarian aid agencies reiterate their commitment to helping to meet the needs of the Palestinian people, and strongly urge the international community and donor governments to continue providing critical assistance. 

"Made in Palestine" art exhibition to open in New York City

14 February 2006


Al-Jisser is proud to announce the opening of the “Made in Palestine” art exhibition in New York City. After two years of fundraising, community events and wonderful support, Al-Jisser has leased a space in a central gallery building in the heart of Chelsea in Manhattan’s art world, to open and present this monumental exhibition to the art world, the community and the public. Please join with us in sharing in this great victory and in publicizing this exhibition far and wide. “Made in Palestine” will be opening at The Bridge 521 W. 26th St., 3rd Floor, NYC The show will be open to the public between March 14, 2006 and April 22, 2006, on Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 11 AM to 6 PM daily. 

Urgent Appeal: Help F.A.S.T. Reconstruct Lifta's Map

13 February 2006


The village of Lifta, which lies just outside Jerusalem, has been abandoned since the Israeli army drove out the last of its Palestinian inhabitants in 1948. Now, however, a renovation project aims to turn Lifta into an expensive and exclusive Jewish residential area - reinventing its history in the process. In the following months, the Foundation for Achieving Seamless Territory (F.A.S.T.) will, with your help, reconstruct the map of Lifta. F.A.S.T. invites you to help it describe the town by sending your details, narratives, drawings and photographs of Lifta. F.A.S.T. will compile the material that is send to them (by email or fax) and fill the map. 

CNI calls on U.S. to deal with new democratic forces in Middle East

13 February 2006


A delegation from the Council for the National Interest that participated as international observers to the recent Palestinian elections and met with government and opposition figures in six Middle East countries called yesterday on President Bush and his administration to deal honestly and openly with the new Islamist opposition that has been brought to power by democratic means in several Middle East countries. The members of the delegation, including two ambassadors, were among the firstAmericanretired foreign service officers to meet with Hamas leaders Mahmoud al-Zahar and Khaled Meshaal, whom they described as eager to talk to American officials ,and even to reach a peace with Israel. “There seems to be a lack of dialogue with leaders in the Middle East,” said CNI President Eugene Bird in a public hearing on Capitol Hill Thursday morning. “Many U.S. diplomats are not talking to people they should be, and this has been shocking for us to see this.” 

AAUP Conference on Academic Freedom and Boycotts Postponed

13 February 2006


Academics and researchers invited to participate in the conference on academic freedom and academic boycotts organized by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) condemn tactics used by critics of the conference to cast doubt on the integrity of the organizers and some of the participants, and to ultimately derail it. On February 9, the AAUP decided to postpone its conference. Joan Scott, former chair of the AAUP’s Committee on Academic Freedom and one of the key organizers of this conference, said the postponement was due to “a carefully orchestrated campaign to abort the conference by groups which believe that any representation of a point of view other than theirs is anathema”. 

Israel and Apartheid South Africa: A response to Guardian series on the relationship between the two

Angela Godfrey-Goldstein 13 February 2006


Last week, The Guardian (UK) published a two-part series by its reporter Chris McGreal comparing Israeli policies vis-a-vis its own Palestinian citizens and those living under its occupation in the West Bank (including East Jerusalem) and Gaza Strip to that of apartheid-era South Africa. The following is a letter to The Guardian editor from a peace activist who has been a part of society and the struggle for human rights in both countries who finds that the questions posed by The Guardian necessary for ensuring a truly secure future. 

Palestinian Film Professionals Question Euromed Funding Initiative in Open Letter

13 February 2006


In December 2005, the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) sent a letter to the EUROPEaid office in Brussels concerning the shortlisting of a partnership between the Ramallah Film Institute and the New Foundation for Cinema and Television, estimated at $1.8 billion. Neither their letter, nor a letter sent by a group of 40 filmmakers and artists, received any response or acknowledgement from EUROPEaid. The following letter was resent by the group of filmmakers and artists emphasizing their continued concern with the respective project organisations’ lack of transparency and failure to condemn the Israeli occupation. 

Annan says victories by Islamic movements in the Middle East show yearning for effective government

9 February 2006


United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today said victories by religious parties in recent elections in the Middle East were more an indication of interest in effective government than a rejection of secular rule. In New York, Mr. Annan was asked by reporters about the success of Hamas in the Palestinian elections, the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, and religious parties in Iraq. He said the trend was not a total rejection of secular movements or a swing to Islamic parties. “I think, if the regimes in power were seen to be delivering, were seen to be close to the people,” he said. 

EI speaks about Palestinian elections on Flashpoints

26 January 2006


Pacifica Radio’s Flashpoints reports on the global spotlight which is now shining on Hamas as they upstage the Fatah movement and the old guard in occupied Palestine. Flashpoints speaks with its special correspondents in the West Bank and Gaza, and Ali Abunimah of the Electronic Intifada about the significance of the Hamas upset. Yesterday, Palestinians went to the polls to elect 132 members of the Palestinian Legislative Council. Council members will choose a cabinet to serve with Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas. Hamas with its list of Change and Reform obtained 74 seats, the Fatah Movement obtained 45 seats; PFLP obtained 3 seats and the Alternative, Independent Palestine and the Third Way received each 2 seats and the Independents list obtained 4 seats. 

Palestinian Representative to the UN: "Israeli attacks jeopardize all efforts to extend the period of calm"

7 February 2006


In identical letters to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council, the Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, wrote that recent Israeli attacks on Palestinians have been incessant, as the chronology clearly demonstrates. “More dangerously, these unlawful attacks, which amount to war crimes and indicate an abject disdain for the worth of Palestinian lives, threaten to ignite an already extremely tense situation on the ground. Additionally, this deadly campaign against Palestinians jeopardizes all efforts exerted at the present time to extend the period of calm and work on transferring powers to the new Palestinian Government in a smooth and efficient manner.” 

EI speaks about cartoons on CounterSpin

9 February 2006


This week on CounterSpin: Unflattering and offensive cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed that appeared in a Danish newspaper have set off protests around the world. Pundits seem eager to portray the story as the familiar “clash of civilizations,” but what else is going on here? We’ll ask Ali Abunimah of the website Electronic Intifada. CounterSpin spoke to Ali Abunimah of the website Electronic Intifada. CounterSpin is FAIR’s weekly radio show, hosted by Janine Jackson, Steve Rendall and Peter Hart. It’s heard on more than 125 noncommercial stations across the United States and Canada. MP3 format. 

Appeals for Urgent Support to Stabilize Palestinian Authority’s Finances heard as Palestinian Rights Committee Convenes

10 February 2006


Voting in large numbers two weeks ago, the Palestinian people had underlined their commitment to building democracy and achieving self-determination, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said this morning, in statement to the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian people. Emphasizing that the Palestinian economy all needed continued support, as well as far-reaching reforms, he said the most urgent need was to stabilize the Palestinian Authority’s finances. The 2006 session of the committee began on 10 February 2006. At the meeting, the Committee elected members of the Bureau of the Committee and adopted its programme of work for the year. 

Measures needed to alleviate economic hardship in the West Bank – UN report

10 February 2006


Improving infrastructure, gaining greater access to markets and diversifying economic activity are among the measures recommended in a United Nations report issued today aimed at helping to alleviate the economic hardship faced by Palestinians in the West Bank. The report, issued by the Office of the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, says that “since 2000 a progressive fragmentation of established patterns of economic activity has taken place in the West Bank, involving the breakdown of relations with Israel, between districts and between urban and rural economies.” In particular, the report focuses on the “negative economic impact on all communities near it” of the construction by Israel of a separation barrier. 

Singling out the Palestinians? Reciprocal demands are the key to peace

Moshe Behar 10 February 2006


In and around Israel’s “capital of the Qassam rockets,” where Moshe Behar teaches, the victory of Hamas in the Palestinian elections has left Israelis as divided as always. While some think that it can be a positive development others deem this wishful thinking and believe the existing Israeli-Palestinian gridlock will continue for years to come. If the Quartet genuinely cares for the wellbeing of us, Israelis and Palestinians, they should cease playing the game of lopsided demands. For any hope to bring us nearer to a just and peaceful settlement, reciprocal demands should be made not just on the democratically elected representatives of the stateless occupied society, but also on those of the occupying state. 

Concordia University blocks Israeli Apartheid Week

10 February 2006


Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights-Concordia has been banned, without explanation or consultation, by the administration, specifically by President Claude Lajeunesse, from using the Samuel Bronfman Building at Concordia University, to host an upcoming event, Israeli Apartheid Week 2006. SPHR booked and received a confirmation to hold Apartheid Week at the Samuel Bronfman building about two weeks ago. All other venues with similar capacity (100-200 people), were booked, and Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR — the organizing group) was left with the Bronfman as the only respectable venue suitable for the speakers we will be hosting (Mr. Toufic Haddad, Dr. Ismail Zayid and Dr. Uri Davis). 

Human Rights Watch: "Israeli military must account for killings of two children"

8 February 2006


The Israel Defense Forces’ top judicial officer should demonstrate his resolve to combat impunity by immediately ordering thorough and effective criminal investigations into the latest shooting deaths of Palestinian children by Israeli forces during policing operations, Human Rights Watch said today. The Israeli military’s judge advocate general, Brigadier-General Avihai Mandelblit, in December told a gathering of Israeli nongovernmental organizations in Tel Aviv that the number of criminal investigations was increasing under his tenure, which began in July 2004. He asserted that the total number of criminal investigations since September 2000 had now reached 200. 

Human rights groups condemn "targeted assassinations"

Adalah, Addameer, Alternative Information Center, Al-Haq, Defence for Children International-Palestine Section, Al Mezan Center For Human Rights, Palestinian Center for Human Rights, Public Committee Against Torture in Israel and Women's Center for Legal Aid and Counselling 10 February 2006


Human rights groups based in the occupied Palestinian territories are concerned regarding the intensified Israeli campaign of “targeted assassinations” of Palestinian activists. In an open letter to diplomatic missions they stated that the policy of “targeted assassination” “not only circumvents the fundamental right to due process but also risks the further destabilisation of an already volatile political situation.” With ten Palestinians killed in the last five days the human rights groups call on the international community to demand an end to the illegal Israeli practice and to ensure the respect of international humanitarian law. 

Egyptian Diplomat Kidnapped in Gaza

10 February 2006


The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights strongly condemns the kidnapping of the Egyptian diplomat, Husam El-Mousili, in Gaza on 9 February 2006. This crime is another in a series of organized crimes, which have undermined the rule of law in the OPT, particularly since the announcement of the Palestinian Legislative Council election results. Similar crimes were carried out prior to the elections but failed to undermine or delay the elections. On Thursday, 9 February 2006, unidentified gunmen travelling in a “Volkswagen” stopped the car of the Egyptian diplomat, Husam El-Mousili, in Gaza city. They forced him out of the car and took him to an unknown location. 

Human Rights Defenders in Palestine At Risk

10 February 2006


A Front Line delegation, including Front Lne�s Director, Mary Lawlor, is currently in Gaza launching a report on the situation of human rights defenders in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). The report, which is written in conjunction with the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) examines killings, injury, arbitrary detention and arrests of human rights defenders over the past five years caused by both the Israeli military and by forces with links to the Palestinian National Authority (PNA). The report recommends, among other things, that Israel stops treating human rights defenders as terrorists and lifts the regime of checkpoints, closures and curfews which has imposed a siege across the OPT and prevented defenders from carrying out their work. 

Give law a chance

Laurie King 12 February 2006


Suspended between life and death in a permanent coma, Ariel Sharon cannot undo, acknowledge, or apologize for all the blood he shed. All conscious (and conscientious) Israelis still have, however, an opportunity to make amends, affirm justice, and redeem the message of Judaism, rather than remaining oppressors of a people possessing nothing but their threadbare dignity. Maybe it is time to give law a chance. If Israelis wish to remain the inheritors of Judaism’s rich legacy, rather than increasingly shrill and unconvincing defenders of the worst excesses of Zionism, they should speak up now, before the Israeli elections next month. 

New Basketball Rules in the Middle East

7 February 2006


The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has directed its Middle East commission to implement fifteen new rule changes from March 1. Regarding the use of a smaller ball for midget basketball in China, the commision for midget basketball events will consider the matter in April before the Central Board takes a final decision, according to a statement from Michael Lebanon, FIBA secretary ceneral. The statement said rule changes proposed by the Technical Commission in December 2005 were accepted by FIBA Central Board. The new rules include the right for Israelis to play on both sides of the court. Palestinians are only allowed on their side. 

Jeff Halper & Ghassan Andoni: Nobel Peace Prize Nominees

9 February 2006


The American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker humanitarian service organization, has nominated two candidates for the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize: Jeff Halper from Israel and Ghassan Andoni from the West Bank and Gaza. In a region torn apart by conflict, these grassroots peace activists have been committed to nonviolence as the path to justice, peace, and reconciliation. For decades they have worked to liberate both the Palestinian and the Israeli people from the yoke of structural violence — symbolized most clearly by the Israeli Occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. They have opposed the Separation Wall that blinds people to one another’s existence. They have instead tried to build bridges to recognition and celebration of a common humanity. 

Israeli media turns a blind eye to facts contained in national poverty report

8 February 2006


A report from National Insurance Institute last week showed a growing disparity in wealth in Israel: one in four families now lives below the poverty line, and more than one in three children. But while the news pages were stuffed with details of the report and leading commentators were shocked by the findings, most made little or no mention that Arab families have been by far the biggest victims of growing impoverishment in Israel. Avishai Braverman of the Labor party, for example, suggested that the problem could be significantly eased if higher pensions were paid out, while MK Yuli Tamir argued that generous student loans were a solution. 

Justice Ministry delays investigation into police shooting of Arab youth

8 February 2006


Nadim Melham was shot dead in unclear circumstances by the Israeli police at his home in the Arab village of Arara in northern Israel on January 19. Police say they broke into the Melham family’s home after a tip-off that the youth was a drug dealer and had a stash of guns. They claim he tried to escape and, when cornered, pulled out a gun and cocked the trigger. He was shot in the chest by officers defending themselves, say police. 

No excuse for silence over travel ban on journalist Anton Shalhat

8 February 2006


The distinguished journalist and literary critic Anton Shalhat was this month banned from leaving Israel until the end of the year, on the advice of the Shin Bet domestic security service. A year-long travel ban was issued on January 17, following the approval of two temporary orders - the first signed by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and the second by an Interior Ministry official - in late December. An accompanying letter from the Interior Ministry says that the decision to bar Mr Shalhat from leaving the country is based on classified information that he may “harm the security of the state”. 

National Security Council cancels debate on demolition plan for 30 Bedouin Arab villages

8 February 2006


A debate at Israel’s most high-profile policy-making forum on government plans to destroy up to 30 villages in the Negev that are home to tens of thousands Bedouin Arabs was cancelled at the last minute as protesters outside threatened to draw attention to the discussion. The Herzliya Conference, staged annually at the seaside resort north of Tel Aviv, attracts the country’s leading politicians, diplomats, generals, buisinessmen, academics and journalists under the banner “The balance of national strength and security”. 

UN Palestinian Rights Committee hails recent successful elections

6 February 2006


Officials serving on the United Nations Palestinian Rights Committee have welcomed the last month’s Legislative Council elections, voicing hope that the new body will help contribute to peace in the Middle East. In a statement released in New York late Tuesday, the Bureau of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People said the polls “were conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner” and offered its “high praise” to the Central Elections Commission and all of the Palestinian people. “The opportunity brought about by the democratic elections must be built on and seized by the parties to try to revitalize peace negotiations based on the principles of international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions.” 

Church of England votes to divest from Caterpillar

6 February 2006


The Church of England’s most senior decision-making body, the General Synod, voted to disinvest from “companies profiting from the illegal occupation [of Palestine]”. Caterpillar manufactures D9 bulldozers used by the Israeli armed forces for house demolitions. The decision follows examination by the Church’s Ethical Investment Advisory Group (EIAG) of whether the shares currently held in Caterpillar were consistent with the Church’s ethical investment policy, which prohibits investment in arms companies or companies making “weapons platforms” such as naval vessels or tanks. 

Campaigners welcome Church divestment vote on Caterpillar

7 February 2006


Campaigners today welcomed the Church of England’s overwhelming vote in favour of divesting its £2.2 million shares from bulldozer manufacturer Caterpillar. The vote, supported by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, sends a clear message to Caterpillar that profiting from human rights violations is not compatible with socially responsible business practice. The General Synod of the Church of England voted yesterday evening (6 February 2006) “to disinvest from companies profiting from the illegal occupation, such as Caterpillar Inc, until they change their policies”. The Church Commissioners now need to enforce the Synod’s decision. 

Waging an electronic intifada

Jennifer Jett 24 January 2006


Pro-Palestinian activist Ali Abunimah will speak at McGill this week as part of Social Justice Days, a series of student-organized events that encourage activism. Abunimah is the co-founder of Electronic Intifada, a Web site devoted to covering the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. “It deals not only with politics but with arts, music, culture and just about every aspect of these issues that you could want to know about,” he said. “We have a lot of personal writing, diaries of people in Palestine, photography and that kind of thing.” Abunimah contends that mainstream media misrepresent the conflict and the actors involved. Abunimah said he hopes the event will be an informal discussion in which students raise their own questions. 

Israeli forces assassinate three Palestinians

7 February 2006


Israeli forces committed two extra-judicial executions in less than 8 hours, leaving two Palestinians in the Gaza Strip dead and a third dead in the West Bank. This raises the total number of extra-judicial executions committed by IOF in the past two days to 4, killing 8 Palestinians. On Monday, Israeli forces fired an artillery shell at a civilian car in the Gaza Strip, killing two Palestinians. In the West Bank, an Israeli undercover unit moved into Nablus and surrounded a building in the Rafidya neighbourhood. Israeli forces opened fire on the building. When the Israeli forces withdrew, Palestinian medical personnel evacuated a body from the building. 

World Bank Chief Backs Continued Palestinian Aid

6 February 2006


Paul Wolfowitz, president of the World Bank, said yesterday that the Bank should continue delivering aid to the West Bank and Gaza in spite of last week’s electoral victory for Hamas, reports The Financial Times. The Bank chairs the committee of donors for the West Bank and Gaza, which disburses about $1bn a year. The EU, which is the largest single donor, recently suspended some of the aid that was funneled directly into the budget of the Palestinian Authority (PA) in protest at financial mismanagement. The PA’s fiscal situation has become increasingly unsustainable mainly as a result of uncontained government consumption, in particular a rapidly increasing public sector wage bill, expanding social transfer schemes and rising “net lending”. 

EI on PBS's "Newshour with Jim Lehrer"

Newshour with Jim Lehrer 6 February 2006


From Indonesia to India to Iraq, protests in the Muslim world grew wider and more violent over the weekend, with rioters torching European embassies in two Mideast capitals. The protests were ignited last week by a months-old series of cartoons in a Danish newspaper that caricatured the Prophet Muhammad. Many other European newspapers republished the cartoons in a show of solidarity with the Danish paper. Many Muslims consider any depiction of the prophet blasphemous. Fouad Ajami, director of Middle East studies at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, and EI’s Ali Abunimah were invited to give their opinions on the issue. 

Reinventing Lifta (2/2)

Malkit Shoshan and Eitan Bronstein 6 February 2006


The Jewish state uses Jerusalem to define itself in the ever expanding city. All buildings, including new ones, have to be made of stone in order to show the eternal Jewish presence, in this process Jerusalem’s Palestinian past is being appropriated. Malkit Shoshan, director of FAST (the Foundation for Achieving Seamless Territory), and Eitan Bronstein, director of Zochrot, examine the ways in which planning is being used to create this fantasy heritage for Israel, at the expense of Palestinian culture. The village of Lifta, which lies just outside Jerusalem, has been abandoned since the Israeli army drove out the last of its Palestinian inhabitants in 1948. 

Second attack in 24 hours: Israel assassinates two Palestinians in Gaza

6 February 2006


On Sunday evening, 5 February 2006, Israeli Occupation Forces extra-judicially executed two members of the al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, in Gaza City. This attack came less than 24 hours after a similar attack, also in Gaza City, which left 3 members of the Fatah movement dead. This escalation in violence represents a confirmation of the Israeli official statement vowing to continue to search for and target activists of Palestinian factions. on Sunday, 5 February 2006, IOF aircrafts launched two missiles at two civilian cars that were traveling near the Doula building in the densely populated al-Zaytoun neighborhood in the southeast of Gaza City. 

Arab music tour to benefit music education in Palestine

6 February 2006


The ensemble Playing lively arrangements based on classical themes, four Palestinian musicians will perform authentic instrumental Arab music in the U.S. for the first time, from February 14-24. Proceeds of the American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA) sponsored concert tour will support the Palestine Youth Orchestra of the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music. Touring New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, the four Palestinian members of this unique Ensemble are faculty of The Edward Said National Conservatory of Music where both Arab and western music is taught to 550 Palestinian students of elementary through high school age annually, even under the difficult conditions of Palestine. 

Aid cuts will hit Palestinians

3 February 2006


The Middle East Quartet said on Monday that a new Hamas-led government must commit to non-violence, recognise Israel and accept current peace agreements, or it could lose the financial support it receives from the international community. Christian Aid is deeply concerned about the potentially crippling effect on Palestinian household economies if this aid was cut. Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories is the main cause of Palestinian poverty. While aid is a necessary lifeline for the Palestinians, it can only address the symptoms of the occupation rather than bring about a lasting solution to poverty. 

Reinventing Lifta (1/2)

Malkit Shoshan and Eitan Bronstein 6 February 2006


The Jewish state uses Jerusalem to define itself in the ever expanding city. All buildings, including new ones, have to be made of stone in order to show the eternal Jewish presence, in this process Jerusalem’s Palestinian past is being appropriated. Malkit Shoshan, director of FAST (the Foundation for Achieving Seamless Territory), and Eitan Bronstein, director of Zochrot, examine the ways in which planning is being used to create this fantasy heritage for Israel, at the expense of Palestinian culture. The village of Lifta, which lies just outside Jerusalem, has been abandoned since the Israeli army drove out the last of its Palestinian inhabitants in 1948. 

Israeli air attack in Gaza kills three Palestinians

5 February 2006


On Sunday morning, 5 February 2006, Israeli forces extra-judicially executed three members of the al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, the military wing of the Fatah movement. Israeli aircrafts attacked a car, in which two of the victims were traveling towards the hospital. They were evacuating a person who had been wounded, when Israeli aircrafts attacked a sports club in the densely populated Tal al-Hawa neighborhood in the south of Gaza City. The club was totally destroyed and one of its members, 30-year-old Hani Tal’at al-Qayed, was seriously wounded. When two members of the club offered to help and evacuate Qayed, their car was hit by a missile launched from an Israeli aircraft. The three men were immediately killed. 

The Third Intifada

Sam Bahour 4 February 2006


Welcome to the third Palestinian intifada. The first was with stones, the second a mix between non-violent and more violent means, and this one via a ballot box. With Hamas’ landslide victory in the Palestinian elections breaking years of political stagnation, we are witnessing, right before our eyes, a chapter of history being made. In an attempt to make sense of the rapidly moving situation following the elections, I pose the following for consideration. Three ironies, three potential failures and three challenges. 

A Parliament of Prisoners

Toufic Haddad 4 February 2006


Most attention surrounding the 25 January 2006 election has focused upon the sweeping victory of Hamas at the polls, and with good reason. But there are other aspects to this year’s election that will also leave permanent impressions upon the future of Palestinian national activity. Among the 132 Palestinians who won seats in the Legislative Council, 15 of them are prisoners. 14 are imprisoned in Israeli jails, and one sits in a Palestinian administered jail in Jericho, with CIA and British Intelligence oversight. 11 of them are affiliated with Hamas, 3 with Fateh, and one with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. 

Politics, Language and the Palestinians

Saree Makdisi 3 February 2006


After Hamas’ election victory, the organization’s exiled leader Khaled Meshal wrote an article that was printed in several western newspapers. EI contributor Saree Makdisi says “what was refreshing about Meshal’s piece was his use of a defiant language of struggle—one appropriate to their desperate circumstances—rather than the meaningless, empty, bankrupt language all but handed to current and previous Palestinian leaders by a team of American and Israeli script-writers.” Makdisi writes that whether one disagrees with Hamas or not, the article reminds us of the importance of redefining the Palestinian struggle and the language used to shape it. 

We will not sell our people or principles for foreign aid

Khaled Meshal 31 January 2006


Khaled Mishal, the head of the Hamas political bureau writes that Palestinian voters chose his party “because of its pledge never to give up the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and its promise to embark on a programme of reform.” “Our message to the US and EU governments is this”, he writes, “your attempt to force us to give up our principles or our struggle is in vain. Our people who gave thousands of martyrs, the millions of refugees who have waited for nearly 60 years to return home and our 9,000 political and war prisoners in Israeli jails have not made those sacrifices in order to settle for close to nothing.” 

Mock PLO elections in Europe

31 January 2006


Symbolic elections have been held in Europe which coincide with Palestine’s first parliamentary elections in a decade. Exiled Palestinian communities living in Paris and Brussels, organised mock elections to highlight the fact that a majority of Palestinians are denied the chance to elect national leaders. Ali Abunimah is co-founder of Electronic Intifada - an independent website which addresses the Israeli - Palestinian conflict. He’s speaking with SBS radio’s Natasha Cuculovski. 

Munich, or Making Baklava

Joseph Massad 3 February 2006


“The best baklava is made by the Arabs in Jaffa,” insists the Mossad case officer to his chief agent in charge of assassinating those Palestinians Israel claims planned the Munich operation of 1972. Besides being excellent baklava-makers, we learn little else in Steven Spielberg’s film “Munich” about Jaffa’s Palestinians, the majority of whom were pushed into the sea by Zionist forces in May 1948. Columbia University professor and EI contributor Joseph Massad examines Spielberg’s film and finds that it continues a tradition started by Otto Preminger’s 1960 film “Exodus,” and ultimately serves to justify rather than question Israeli terrorism and violence. 

Weekly report on human rights violations

3 February 2006


This week, Israeli forces killed three Palestinians, including a mentally-handicapped child. At least 13 Palestinian civilians, including a child were wounded. Israeli forces conducted 27 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank. Israeli forces raided Palestinian homes and 53 civilians, including six children were arrested. Israeli forces transformed six Palestinian homes into military outpost. Israel continues to impose a total siege on the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli forces have imposed severe restrictions on movement. Despite international criticism, Israel continues to construct the Apartheid Wall. Israeli forces razed land in Hebron. Israeli settlers continue attacks on Palestinian civilians and property. Israeli forces demolished two Palestinian homes in Bethlehem. 

The End of a Political Fiction?

Adam Hanieh 2 February 2006


Hamas’s landslide victory in the January 25 elections for the 132-seat Palestinian Legislative Council is an unprecedented turning point for politics in both Palestine and the broader Middle East. Arguably for the first time since the establishment of Israel in 1948, an official administrative power in the West Bank and Gaza Strip has strong popular support and is not directly beholden to Israeli or Western interests. The Hamas victory helps to dispel the myths surrounding the negotiations of the last decade. Hamas’s victory expressed a political sentiment and desire for a real alternative to the Oslo straitjacket. The Hamas leadership clearly recognizes this and has shown little inclination to implement far-reaching social changes along religious lines. 

Where the Sidewalk Ends

Laila El-Haddad Gaza Strip 1 February 2006


Yesterday, after a trip around Bait Hanun, Gaza’s northern breadbasket, I headed to the Erez Crossing to give some journalist friends a lift. They were headed to Jerusalem, where they were based, and to where I am I unable to travel.I hadn’t been to Erez in a while, namely because there is no point. I am forbidden from entering the West Bank based on the arbitrary decision of some official in the Israeli security matrix. Or maybe not so arbitrary. Because obviously with a pen in one hand, a dirty diaper in the other, I am a very real and potent threat to the Israeli security establishment. 

The Perfect Antidote to the War on Terror

Nigel Parry 1 February 2006


Any Arab who has watched a few movies in their time knows that their people and Tinsel Town have a few things to work out. With no shortage of caricatures, stereotypes, and other negative portrayals flickering across cinema screens year after year, passing unnoticed in American society bar the reflexive condemnations by Arab American groups, it was high time someone did something proactive. The New York Arab-American Comedy Festival, which held its third annual event in Manhattan last November to sold out crowds, recently took the Festival on the road to the industry’s front door: Hollywood, Los Angeles.