Thursday, January 6, 2011
Israel slates 15 Palestinian homes in Jericho for demolition
Ma’an- Israeli authorities delivered 15 demolition orders to farmers in the Ad-Dweik Al-Foqa area north of Jericho on Thursday, marking the second day such orders were handed out in the West Bank. Read more
Israelis 'demanded bribes at Gaza crossing'
Ma'an-AFP- US firms complained in 2006 of corruption by Israeli officials at the Karni crossing into Gaza, then the Palestinian territory's main commercial transit point, a leaked US diplomatic cable showed Thursday.
According to a cable from the US embassy in Tel Aviv and consulate in Jerusalem, US firms complained to embassy officials of a "lack of a clear and predictable truck registration system" which enabled "widespread corruption at Karni crossing."
The companies included Coca Cola, Procter and Gamble, Caterpillar, Philip Morris, Westinghouse, Hewlett Packard, Motorola, Aramex and Dell. Read more
According to a cable from the US embassy in Tel Aviv and consulate in Jerusalem, US firms complained to embassy officials of a "lack of a clear and predictable truck registration system" which enabled "widespread corruption at Karni crossing."
The companies included Coca Cola, Procter and Gamble, Caterpillar, Philip Morris, Westinghouse, Hewlett Packard, Motorola, Aramex and Dell. Read more
Israeli border guards bar Palestinian infant from Jerusalem medical treatment
Ma'an- Israeli soldiers deployed at the Zaytoun checkpoint east of Jerusalem turned away a mother and child with a medical permit to enter the city, on the grounds that the 18-month-old child was not her legitimate son.
Soldiers told Umm Mohammed that her son Mohammad Kahlil Abu Dahuk was in fact a Gaza resident, and could not enter Jerusalem for treatment at the Makassed Hospital, where he was referred for blood work. Read more
Soldiers told Umm Mohammed that her son Mohammad Kahlil Abu Dahuk was in fact a Gaza resident, and could not enter Jerusalem for treatment at the Makassed Hospital, where he was referred for blood work. Read more
We don’t need Wikileaks to know what the closure is
Gaza Gateway- It doesn’t take a Wikileaked cable to tell us that Israel’s policy towards Gaza has been one of economic warfare for the past several years, but yesterday’s article in Haaretz spelled it out again for anyone who hasn’t been paying attention.
The article quotes a cable written by officials at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv and also quotes a 2008 speech by then-Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. Just in case that’s not enough, the state said the same thing in official documents submitted to the Israeli Supreme Court. The message is clear: push the economy to the brink without going over. But then again, how do we know when it’s “gone over?” Guy Zohar asked the same question on an Israeli television news program on Channel 10 last night.
There’s something else that’s no secret but that hasn’t seemed to penetrate yet. Ready? The closure isn’t over and neither are restrictions paralyzing economic activity, namely the ban on export and construction materials and on the movement of people.
A case in point: this week the Jerusalem Post reported that trade of fruit from Israel to Gaza was up 25% in 2010, putting Gaza on par with the consumer markets in the Netherlands, France and Spain and suggesting this is an indication of economic revitalization in Gaza. It’s well known that Israel has allowed agricultural products in to Gaza to help Israeli farmers get rid of excess produce – it’s what made kiwis a luxury one week and then permitted another – before civilian goods were allowed into Gaza on a more regular basis, beginning this past summer. The Israel Fruit Growers Association chairman Ilan Eshel says so much in the JPost article.
Unlike the Netherlands, France, and Spain, however, farmers in Gaza are barred from selling most of their products outside of the Gaza Strip, because Israel won’t let the goods through the crossings. In addition, the article neglects to mention the tremendous losses to the agricultural sector in Gaza over the past several years when transport of inputs for the sector were limited and a ban on export shrank profits for Gaza’s farming families, which account for 25% of the population. Since late November, Israel has allowed limited export, but it benefits a small fraction of the agricultural sector; just three kinds of products have been let out so far – carnations, strawberries, and peppers – at a rate of about four trucks per day versus 70 per day before the closure. The article also didn’t point out that limitations on movement in the buffer zone have prevented access to about 35% of Gaza’s agricultural lands, making it hard for farmers to tend to their fruits and vegetables. This in addition to destruction caused to agricultural lands and infrastructure in these areas during Operation Cast Lead, which have since not been rehabilitated since they cannot be accessed. Read more
The article quotes a cable written by officials at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv and also quotes a 2008 speech by then-Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. Just in case that’s not enough, the state said the same thing in official documents submitted to the Israeli Supreme Court. The message is clear: push the economy to the brink without going over. But then again, how do we know when it’s “gone over?” Guy Zohar asked the same question on an Israeli television news program on Channel 10 last night.
There’s something else that’s no secret but that hasn’t seemed to penetrate yet. Ready? The closure isn’t over and neither are restrictions paralyzing economic activity, namely the ban on export and construction materials and on the movement of people.
A case in point: this week the Jerusalem Post reported that trade of fruit from Israel to Gaza was up 25% in 2010, putting Gaza on par with the consumer markets in the Netherlands, France and Spain and suggesting this is an indication of economic revitalization in Gaza. It’s well known that Israel has allowed agricultural products in to Gaza to help Israeli farmers get rid of excess produce – it’s what made kiwis a luxury one week and then permitted another – before civilian goods were allowed into Gaza on a more regular basis, beginning this past summer. The Israel Fruit Growers Association chairman Ilan Eshel says so much in the JPost article.
Unlike the Netherlands, France, and Spain, however, farmers in Gaza are barred from selling most of their products outside of the Gaza Strip, because Israel won’t let the goods through the crossings. In addition, the article neglects to mention the tremendous losses to the agricultural sector in Gaza over the past several years when transport of inputs for the sector were limited and a ban on export shrank profits for Gaza’s farming families, which account for 25% of the population. Since late November, Israel has allowed limited export, but it benefits a small fraction of the agricultural sector; just three kinds of products have been let out so far – carnations, strawberries, and peppers – at a rate of about four trucks per day versus 70 per day before the closure. The article also didn’t point out that limitations on movement in the buffer zone have prevented access to about 35% of Gaza’s agricultural lands, making it hard for farmers to tend to their fruits and vegetables. This in addition to destruction caused to agricultural lands and infrastructure in these areas during Operation Cast Lead, which have since not been rehabilitated since they cannot be accessed. Read more
WikiLeaks: Israel aimed to keep Gaza economy on brink of collapse
Haaretz- Cable from the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv says Israeli officials wanted Gaza's economy 'functioning at the lowest level possible consistent with avoiding a humanitarian crisis.'
Israel told U.S. officials in 2008 it would keep Gaza's economy "on the brink of collapse" while avoiding a humanitarian crisis, according to U.S. diplomatic cables published by a Norwegian daily on Wednesday.
Three cables cited by the Aftenposten newspaper, which has said it has all 250,000 U.S. cables leaked to WikiLeaks, showed that Israel kept the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv briefed on its internationally criticized blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The territory, home to 1.3 million Palestinians, is run by the Islamist Hamas group, which is shunned by the West over its refusal to recognize Israel, renounce violence or accept existing interim Israeli-Palestinian peace deals.
"As part of their overall embargo plan against Gaza, Israeli officials have confirmed to (U.S. embassy economic officers) on multiple occasions that they intend to keep the Gazan economy on the brink of collapse without quite pushing it over the edge," one of the cables read. Read more
Israel told U.S. officials in 2008 it would keep Gaza's economy "on the brink of collapse" while avoiding a humanitarian crisis, according to U.S. diplomatic cables published by a Norwegian daily on Wednesday.
Three cables cited by the Aftenposten newspaper, which has said it has all 250,000 U.S. cables leaked to WikiLeaks, showed that Israel kept the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv briefed on its internationally criticized blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The territory, home to 1.3 million Palestinians, is run by the Islamist Hamas group, which is shunned by the West over its refusal to recognize Israel, renounce violence or accept existing interim Israeli-Palestinian peace deals.
"As part of their overall embargo plan against Gaza, Israeli officials have confirmed to (U.S. embassy economic officers) on multiple occasions that they intend to keep the Gazan economy on the brink of collapse without quite pushing it over the edge," one of the cables read. Read more
Gaza Educational System collapses as Israeli blockade continues
Bernama - Malaysian National News Agency- Last July, the United Nations reported that nearly 40,000 Palestinian children from Gaza would have no school to go to.
As a result of the Israeli blockade, now in its fifth consecutive year, and the vast damage inflicted by Israel's three-week military offensive in Gaza beginning late December 2008, about 88 per cent of United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) schools and 82 per cent of government schools operate on a two-shift system in an attempt to accommodate the large number of students.
The attack left 250 students and 15 teachers dead.
Other schoolchildren who lost family members or their houses, are still traumatised and in need of psycho-social support to improve their performance which has further declined due to the hard living conditions and improper educational environment.
According to the World Bank, 80 per cent of the Palestinian students in Gaza are failing mathematics, while an astounding 40 per cent are failing in their own language -- Arabic. There are 604 schools in the Gaza Strip, dozens of which were damaged during the Israeli onslaught, including 18 schools which were flattened.
To date, almost no school has been built due to the ongoing blockade. But recently, UNRWA has criticised Israel for hindering efforts to build new schools in the besieged Gaza Strip.
For the fifth year running, Israel has been continuing to impose its blockade, including a ban on allowing badly-needed construction materials like cement and steel, which Israel claims could be used by Hamas to build tunnels.
Adnan Abu Hasna, the UNRWA spokesman in the Gaza Strip, said the agency needed to build more than 100 new schools this year to be able to offer education for the growing number in student population; and that if this need is not urgently met, they would face a real disaster of operating a third shift at night.
However, Israel intermittently eases its blockade, allowing limited amounts of construction materials which are hardly enough to build less than one-tenth of the required number of schools.
"We are calling the Israelis all the time to allow us to get building materials inside the Gaza Strip. Unfortunately, the Israelis are allowing few or small amounts of building materials to get into the Gaza Strip to build seven or six schools," said Abu Hasna.
Mu'awiya ibn abi Sufyan prep. and Secondary School, in Beit Lahia's al-Atatra neighbourhood in Northern Gaza Strip, was completely knocked down during the war.
As a result, students were reduced to studying in caravans or containers which were mainly used for storing goods.
"Al-Atatra area was largely destroyed during the war. Most of the students lost family members or their houses. It was extremely difficult for them. They tried to escape death and destruction by going to school, but they were shocked to find their school completely destroyed," said school principal Aahed el-Sultan.
In the aftermath of the war, at the peak of the blockade as Israel did not allow any construction materials, students had no choice but study in iron-made classes or containers which are mainly used for storing goods.
"We spent a year studying at containers under either the hot or rainy freezing weather, with very poor toilet and sewage systems," the headmaster added.
A year ago, the Islamic Relief re-built the school which now serves a total of 530 students studying only one shift due to the lack of extra classrooms.
Among them is 10th grader Ismael al-Attar who sustained an injury to the left eye when an Israeli tank rammed into his house.
Twelfth grader Yusuf Abu Halima suffered a heavy personal loss during the war.
"Israel killed six members of my family when a tank fired shells at our house...my father, who was the only source of income, was one of the casualities," he said.
"We are in winter, and as you see, the cold weather and continuous power cut-offs constitute a major problem for us," said Ahmed Khalil, an English teacher at the school.
The school psychological worker laments over the psychological impact of war on the students.
He said that most of the students could not concentrate and encountered many problems even at school.
"For example, there are at least 35 students in each classroom. This immensely affects the students, leading to poor performance and ineffective participation in class discussions," he added.
"Most of the students still suffer from trauma and anxiety and live in constant panic and distraction caused by their terrible living conditions under the siege, and their fear when they hear news of a possible war.
"You can't imagine how they are terrified when they hear Israeli warplanes flying over their head," said another psychological support worker.
Read more
As a result of the Israeli blockade, now in its fifth consecutive year, and the vast damage inflicted by Israel's three-week military offensive in Gaza beginning late December 2008, about 88 per cent of United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) schools and 82 per cent of government schools operate on a two-shift system in an attempt to accommodate the large number of students.
The attack left 250 students and 15 teachers dead.
Other schoolchildren who lost family members or their houses, are still traumatised and in need of psycho-social support to improve their performance which has further declined due to the hard living conditions and improper educational environment.
According to the World Bank, 80 per cent of the Palestinian students in Gaza are failing mathematics, while an astounding 40 per cent are failing in their own language -- Arabic. There are 604 schools in the Gaza Strip, dozens of which were damaged during the Israeli onslaught, including 18 schools which were flattened.
To date, almost no school has been built due to the ongoing blockade. But recently, UNRWA has criticised Israel for hindering efforts to build new schools in the besieged Gaza Strip.
For the fifth year running, Israel has been continuing to impose its blockade, including a ban on allowing badly-needed construction materials like cement and steel, which Israel claims could be used by Hamas to build tunnels.
Adnan Abu Hasna, the UNRWA spokesman in the Gaza Strip, said the agency needed to build more than 100 new schools this year to be able to offer education for the growing number in student population; and that if this need is not urgently met, they would face a real disaster of operating a third shift at night.
However, Israel intermittently eases its blockade, allowing limited amounts of construction materials which are hardly enough to build less than one-tenth of the required number of schools.
"We are calling the Israelis all the time to allow us to get building materials inside the Gaza Strip. Unfortunately, the Israelis are allowing few or small amounts of building materials to get into the Gaza Strip to build seven or six schools," said Abu Hasna.
Mu'awiya ibn abi Sufyan prep. and Secondary School, in Beit Lahia's al-Atatra neighbourhood in Northern Gaza Strip, was completely knocked down during the war.
As a result, students were reduced to studying in caravans or containers which were mainly used for storing goods.
"Al-Atatra area was largely destroyed during the war. Most of the students lost family members or their houses. It was extremely difficult for them. They tried to escape death and destruction by going to school, but they were shocked to find their school completely destroyed," said school principal Aahed el-Sultan.
In the aftermath of the war, at the peak of the blockade as Israel did not allow any construction materials, students had no choice but study in iron-made classes or containers which are mainly used for storing goods.
"We spent a year studying at containers under either the hot or rainy freezing weather, with very poor toilet and sewage systems," the headmaster added.
A year ago, the Islamic Relief re-built the school which now serves a total of 530 students studying only one shift due to the lack of extra classrooms.
Among them is 10th grader Ismael al-Attar who sustained an injury to the left eye when an Israeli tank rammed into his house.
Twelfth grader Yusuf Abu Halima suffered a heavy personal loss during the war.
"Israel killed six members of my family when a tank fired shells at our house...my father, who was the only source of income, was one of the casualities," he said.
"We are in winter, and as you see, the cold weather and continuous power cut-offs constitute a major problem for us," said Ahmed Khalil, an English teacher at the school.
The school psychological worker laments over the psychological impact of war on the students.
He said that most of the students could not concentrate and encountered many problems even at school.
"For example, there are at least 35 students in each classroom. This immensely affects the students, leading to poor performance and ineffective participation in class discussions," he added.
"Most of the students still suffer from trauma and anxiety and live in constant panic and distraction caused by their terrible living conditions under the siege, and their fear when they hear news of a possible war.
"You can't imagine how they are terrified when they hear Israeli warplanes flying over their head," said another psychological support worker.
Read more
Palestinian neighborhood organizes general strike in response to home demolitions
Palestinian neighborhood organizes general strike in response to home demolitions
IMEMC- After the Israeli government demolished a 3-story building Tuesday in the neighborhood of Umm al-Fahm in East Jerusalem, the residents of the neighborhood declared a general strike in protest of Israel's demolition policy. Read more
IMEMC- After the Israeli government demolished a 3-story building Tuesday in the neighborhood of Umm al-Fahm in East Jerusalem, the residents of the neighborhood declared a general strike in protest of Israel's demolition policy. Read more
2004 Israeli army study: High concentrations of tear gas could be lethal
Haaretz- Hundreds of Palestinians and Israelis are expected in Bil'in on Friday for weekly demonstration, which will be preceded by a memorial service for Jawaher Abu Rahmah.
The Israel Defense Forces continues to insist that the CS tear gas it uses to disperse demonstrations is safe, though it is still investigating last week’s death of Jawaher Abu Rahmah, which Palestinians blame on tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers. Read more
The Israel Defense Forces continues to insist that the CS tear gas it uses to disperse demonstrations is safe, though it is still investigating last week’s death of Jawaher Abu Rahmah, which Palestinians blame on tear gas fired by Israeli soldiers. Read more
DCI: 76% of Palestinian children arrested by Israeli forces in Silwan say they were physically abused
DCI-Palestine- 76% of children arrested in Silwan tell DCI they suffered some form of physical violence during arrest, transfer or interrogation.
...Interrogation of children under 12 years - (8 percent): Under Israeli law which is applied to occupied East Jerusalem, children under the age of 12 are not held criminally liable for their actions and must not be detained. Out of the 13 cases in which DCI-Palestine collected sworn affidavits from children who were arrested, one child (8 percent) was under 12. Since the beginning of 2010, B’Tselem, has documented the detention of four children below this age.
Violence during arrest, transfer or interrogation – (76 percent): The types of violence reported to DCI-Palestine includes, punching, slapping, kicking, beating with a rifle, and in one case, throwing a pen at a child’s head during interrogation.
"A soldier started hitting me on the back with the barrel of his rifle and I screamed out in pain and said to him: “I didn‟t do anything.” But he kept hitting me for about a minute when my mother came and started shouting: “Leave him alone, he must go to work.” But one of them pushed her really hard and knocked her down." (A. G. – 16 years)
"They put me inside the jeep and one of them started kicking me all over my body and slapping me until we arrived at Al Mascobiyya."(B. R. – 13 years)
...In 2010, reports of a sharp increase in the number of children being arrested from Silwan and East Jerusalem have been recorded. According to Israel Police figures, between November 2009 and October 2010, the Jerusalem District opened 1,267 criminal files against Palestinian children living in East Jerusalem who were accused of throwing stones. During the same period, the Israeli NGO, B’Tselem reports that 81 children from Silwan have been arrested or detained for questioning, mostly on suspicion of stone throwing. Read more
...Interrogation of children under 12 years - (8 percent): Under Israeli law which is applied to occupied East Jerusalem, children under the age of 12 are not held criminally liable for their actions and must not be detained. Out of the 13 cases in which DCI-Palestine collected sworn affidavits from children who were arrested, one child (8 percent) was under 12. Since the beginning of 2010, B’Tselem, has documented the detention of four children below this age.
Violence during arrest, transfer or interrogation – (76 percent): The types of violence reported to DCI-Palestine includes, punching, slapping, kicking, beating with a rifle, and in one case, throwing a pen at a child’s head during interrogation.
"A soldier started hitting me on the back with the barrel of his rifle and I screamed out in pain and said to him: “I didn‟t do anything.” But he kept hitting me for about a minute when my mother came and started shouting: “Leave him alone, he must go to work.” But one of them pushed her really hard and knocked her down." (A. G. – 16 years)
"They put me inside the jeep and one of them started kicking me all over my body and slapping me until we arrived at Al Mascobiyya."(B. R. – 13 years)
...In 2010, reports of a sharp increase in the number of children being arrested from Silwan and East Jerusalem have been recorded. According to Israel Police figures, between November 2009 and October 2010, the Jerusalem District opened 1,267 criminal files against Palestinian children living in East Jerusalem who were accused of throwing stones. During the same period, the Israeli NGO, B’Tselem reports that 81 children from Silwan have been arrested or detained for questioning, mostly on suspicion of stone throwing. Read more
Weekly Report: Israeli human rights violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory
PCHR- Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) Continued Systematic Attacks against Palestinian Civilians and Property in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT)December 30, 2010 – January 5, 2011
· IOF killed a Palestinian civilian at a military checkpoint in the West Bank.
- 3 Palestinian civilians were wounded by Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip.
· IOF continued to fire at Palestinian workers, farmers and fishermen in border areas in the Gaza Strip.
- IOF arrested 4 Palestinian fishermen and confiscated their boat.
· Israeli warplanes attacked a number of targets in the Gaza Strip.
- A number of training sites were bombarded and 6 houses were damaged.
· IOF continued to use force against peaceful protests in the West Bank.
- A Palestinian woman was killed in Bil'ein village.
- 5 Palestinian civilians, including a child and a paramedic, were wounded.
- IOF arrested an Israeli journalist.
· IOF conducted 30 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one into the Gaza Strip.
- IOF arrested 28 Palestinian civilians, including a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council and 9 children.
...Measures Aimed at Creating a Jewish Demographic Majority in Jerusalem:
IOF have continued to take measures at creating a Jewish majority in Jerusalem.
During the reporting period, IOF demolished two houses in East Jerusalem, claiming that they were built without licenses.
Read more
· IOF killed a Palestinian civilian at a military checkpoint in the West Bank.
- 3 Palestinian civilians were wounded by Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip.
· IOF continued to fire at Palestinian workers, farmers and fishermen in border areas in the Gaza Strip.
- IOF arrested 4 Palestinian fishermen and confiscated their boat.
· Israeli warplanes attacked a number of targets in the Gaza Strip.
- A number of training sites were bombarded and 6 houses were damaged.
· IOF continued to use force against peaceful protests in the West Bank.
- A Palestinian woman was killed in Bil'ein village.
- 5 Palestinian civilians, including a child and a paramedic, were wounded.
- IOF arrested an Israeli journalist.
· IOF conducted 30 incursions into Palestinian communities in the West Bank and a limited one into the Gaza Strip.
- IOF arrested 28 Palestinian civilians, including a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council and 9 children.
...Measures Aimed at Creating a Jewish Demographic Majority in Jerusalem:
IOF have continued to take measures at creating a Jewish majority in Jerusalem.
During the reporting period, IOF demolished two houses in East Jerusalem, claiming that they were built without licenses.
Read more
Secretary General of Islamic Conference warns international officials of dangers threatening the the holy Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem
PIC- Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, the secretary general of the Organization of Islamic Conference, has sent messages to foreign ministers of permanent members of the UN Security Council warning them that serious threats were endangering the holy Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem.
Ihsanoglu underlined that the OIC considers the Aqsa Mosque a red line and that the Israeli occupation authority (IOA) is fully responsible for what may occur as a result of any harm done to the holy site.
He urged the international officials to block the IOA from further infringements on the Aqsa and allow the Islamic Awkaf to launch the required maintenance for the Mosque.
Ihsanoglu addressed a separate message to the UNESCO director general asking him to expedite the formation of a committee of international experts with the participation of experts from the OIC member countries to evaluate the safety of the Aqsa compound's buildings. Read more
Ihsanoglu underlined that the OIC considers the Aqsa Mosque a red line and that the Israeli occupation authority (IOA) is fully responsible for what may occur as a result of any harm done to the holy site.
He urged the international officials to block the IOA from further infringements on the Aqsa and allow the Islamic Awkaf to launch the required maintenance for the Mosque.
Ihsanoglu addressed a separate message to the UNESCO director general asking him to expedite the formation of a committee of international experts with the participation of experts from the OIC member countries to evaluate the safety of the Aqsa compound's buildings. Read more
Study: Israelis seized 86 per cent of east Jerusalem
PIC- Israeli authorities have seized 86 per cent of the land area in east Jerusalem, imposing a fait accompli that is unchangeable by the "peace process" , a Palestinian researcher said in a report released Wednesday.
Jerusalem's political future has become governed by Jewish settlements and the apartheid wall, said Jihad Abu Tawila in a study dubbed "The City of Jerusalem: Study of the regional conflict and settlement proposals".
Official solutions - Arab solutions included - are based on the US position concerning the Israeli occupation and Jewish settlements, the study underlines, adding that the "salvage whatever Arab rights that can be salvaged" policy is a "failed model" not bringing about any results on the ground.
The study offered that responding to Israeli settlement projects would require a developmental strategy to preserve the holy sites without compromising any Islamic or Palestinian rights.
The door must be open for multiple options to change the regional and international balance of power in order to force the Israelis to pull out, Abu Tawila said. Read more
Jerusalem's political future has become governed by Jewish settlements and the apartheid wall, said Jihad Abu Tawila in a study dubbed "The City of Jerusalem: Study of the regional conflict and settlement proposals".
Official solutions - Arab solutions included - are based on the US position concerning the Israeli occupation and Jewish settlements, the study underlines, adding that the "salvage whatever Arab rights that can be salvaged" policy is a "failed model" not bringing about any results on the ground.
The study offered that responding to Israeli settlement projects would require a developmental strategy to preserve the holy sites without compromising any Islamic or Palestinian rights.
The door must be open for multiple options to change the regional and international balance of power in order to force the Israelis to pull out, Abu Tawila said. Read more
Violence continues after Israeli shelling at Gaza border
IMEMC- The firing of three mortar shells was reported towards an Israeli military base along the Gaza border, on Thursday morning, a PFLP affilated armed group told Ma’an News. Violence resumed just after Israeli troops fired on a group of Palestinians when they were supposedly trying to cross the Gaza border, on Wednesday evening, AFP reported. Read more
Open Letter to Bon Jovi: Don't entertain Apartheid
PACBI – It is with great disappointment that the undersigned organizations learned of your scheduled performance in Israel set for 2011 as part of your “Circle Tour” [1]. Given that Israel is involved in grave violations of international law and human rights, particularly as indicated in the UN Goldstone Report, we urge you to cancel this gig until the time comes when Israel is in compliance with its obligations under international law and fully respects Palestinian rights.
We were particularly surprised by news of your planned performance given your deep involvement in affordable housing and homelessness issues [2]. As part of its ongoing dispossession of the Palestinian people, Israel continues to demolish Palestinian homes and entire villages, including the Bedouin village of Al-Araqib, which was destroyed seven times this year [3]. Indeed, the entire modern history of the Palestinian people is based on dispossession and homelessness as more than 750,000 people were made refugees to enable the creation of the state of Israel, then kept in permanent refugee status despite the requirements in international law that they be allowed to return to their homes. In your commitment to effect change you have understood that your position as a respected and prominent musician can weigh on politics and contribute to advancing freedom, justice and human rights. It is in this spirit that we address you. Read more
We were particularly surprised by news of your planned performance given your deep involvement in affordable housing and homelessness issues [2]. As part of its ongoing dispossession of the Palestinian people, Israel continues to demolish Palestinian homes and entire villages, including the Bedouin village of Al-Araqib, which was destroyed seven times this year [3]. Indeed, the entire modern history of the Palestinian people is based on dispossession and homelessness as more than 750,000 people were made refugees to enable the creation of the state of Israel, then kept in permanent refugee status despite the requirements in international law that they be allowed to return to their homes. In your commitment to effect change you have understood that your position as a respected and prominent musician can weigh on politics and contribute to advancing freedom, justice and human rights. It is in this spirit that we address you. Read more
Israel told US of intention to starve Gazans
ArabNews-Agencies – Israel told US officials in 2008 it would keep Gaza's economy "on the brink of collapse" while avoiding a humanitarian crisis, according to US diplomatic cables published by a Norwegian daily on Wednesday.
Three cables cited by the Aftenposten newspaper, which has said it has all 250,000 US cables leaked to WikiLeaks, showed that Israel kept the US Embassy in Tel Aviv briefed on its internationally criticized blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The territory, home to 1.3 million Palestinians, is run by Hamas, which is shunned by the West over its refusal to recognize Israel, renounce violence or accept existing interim Israeli-Palestinian peace deals.
"As part of their overall embargo plan against Gaza, Israeli officials have confirmed (to US Embassy economic officers) on multiple occasions that they intend to keep the Gazan economy on the brink of collapse without quite pushing it over the edge," one of the cables read.
Israel wanted the coastal territory's economy "functioning at the lowest level possible consistent with avoiding a humanitarian crisis", according to the Nov. 3, 2008 cable.
Three cables cited by the Aftenposten newspaper, which has said it has all 250,000 US cables leaked to WikiLeaks, showed that Israel kept the US Embassy in Tel Aviv briefed on its internationally criticized blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The territory, home to 1.3 million Palestinians, is run by Hamas, which is shunned by the West over its refusal to recognize Israel, renounce violence or accept existing interim Israeli-Palestinian peace deals.
"As part of their overall embargo plan against Gaza, Israeli officials have confirmed (to US Embassy economic officers) on multiple occasions that they intend to keep the Gazan economy on the brink of collapse without quite pushing it over the edge," one of the cables read.
Israel wanted the coastal territory's economy "functioning at the lowest level possible consistent with avoiding a humanitarian crisis", according to the Nov. 3, 2008 cable.
Abu Rahma was far from the first to be killed by Israeli teargas
JosephDana – Contrary to Israeli claims, Abu Rahmah is not the first to have died as a result of tear-gas inhalation. Already during the years of the First Intifada, Amnesty International had reported forty deaths from CS tear gas inhalation from December 1987 to June 1988 alone in its report “Israel and the Occupied Territories: Amnesty International’s concerns in 1988” (published 1989).
Congress gutted 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th Amendments; Obama admnistration declares "right" to kill American citizens; Clinton defends Russian oligarch's looting
Antiwar.com-Philip Giraldi – The record of the America’s law making body Congress and its judiciary since 9/11 has been nothing short of pathetic. The Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 might well be described as one of history’s more spectacular euphemisms employed to gut a constitution, somewhat akin to Hitler’s "emergency act" in the wake of the Reichstag fire of 1933. It is better known as the Patriot Act I.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Israeli forces demolish Palestinian businesses in East Jerusalem
Ma’an- Israeli authorities on Wednesday demolished the businesses of a Palestinian resident northeast of Jerusalem, witnesses said.
Forces destroyed two garages, a car wash and building materials belonging to Abed Al-Aziz Al-Khatib, a resident of Hizma.
The buildings provided the main source of income for Al-Khatib's 50-member family, he said. Read more
Forces destroyed two garages, a car wash and building materials belonging to Abed Al-Aziz Al-Khatib, a resident of Hizma.
The buildings provided the main source of income for Al-Khatib's 50-member family, he said. Read more
Italian singer brings Gaza twinning accord
Ma'an- Deputy Gaza Mayor Nezar Hejazi welcomed renowned Italian opera singer Joseph Fallisi to the Strip on Wednesday.
Fallisi arrived in Gaza with the Asia 1 aid convoy.
A delegation from Gaza's Culture Ministry and the head of the Palestinian union of artists Zakareyah Zein Din joined the deputy mayor to greet Fallisi.
The singer brought papers to sign a twinning agreement between Villa Castelli in southern Italy and Gaza City. Read more
Fallisi arrived in Gaza with the Asia 1 aid convoy.
A delegation from Gaza's Culture Ministry and the head of the Palestinian union of artists Zakareyah Zein Din joined the deputy mayor to greet Fallisi.
The singer brought papers to sign a twinning agreement between Villa Castelli in southern Italy and Gaza City. Read more
EU foreign policy chief meets with leaders, pushes for negotiated deal
Ma'an- EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton will arrive in the Middle East on Wednesday, where she said she intends to push forward the peace process, saying in a statement that there was "No alternative to a negotiated deal."
On her two-day visit, she will meet leaders from both the Israeli and Palestinian authorities, a press release said, aiming to confirm the EU’s commitment to the peace process, and to reiterate the need for the opening of crossings into Gaza in order to allow for its reconstruction and economic recovery. Read more
On her two-day visit, she will meet leaders from both the Israeli and Palestinian authorities, a press release said, aiming to confirm the EU’s commitment to the peace process, and to reiterate the need for the opening of crossings into Gaza in order to allow for its reconstruction and economic recovery. Read more
Israeli airstrikes hit Gaza twice overnight
Ma'an- Israel's airforce struck two areas in the Gaza Strip overnight, in what a statement said was a "response to this morning's firing of a Qassam Rocket," which allegedly hit outside Ashkelon on Tuesday. Read more
Israeli police raid homes of Israeli anti-Wall activists
IMEMC- Israeli activists who are involved in protests against the Israeli annexation wall had their homes searched by Israeli police.
According to a Ma'an News report, Israeli special police forces attempted to enter and conduct a search of a home in central Tel Aviv, shared by a number of left-wing activists. Activists refused to submit to the search because they were not provided with a search warrant.
At 11 a.m., three policemen targeted a second home which is the residence of an activist who had been detained at a protest against Israel's Operation Cast Lead in 2009. According to a witness, after the police entered the home they “turned the house upside down,” confiscating computers, pictures, clothing, and other items.
Another anonymous source said police forces intend to search at least eight more homes throughout the day.
This new development comes in the midst of increasing attacks on Israeli activists by Israel. In recent weeks, the Shabak, Israel’s intelligence service, has been calling Israeli protester to come in for “friendly chats.” All those who have receiving the calls have refused, since by law they are not required to comply with the requests unless they receive an official summons from the police.
Last week, well-known left-wing activist Johnathan Pollak was sentenced to three months in jail for his role in a small, non-violent protest held in Tel Aviv in 2008, against the Israeli siege on Gaza. Pollak was singled out from the other demonstrators and was the only protester who was arrested, leading many observers to believe that Pollak is being punished for his role in the Palestinian cause, and the fact that he is the spokesman for the West Bank's Popular Struggle Organizing Committee, which serves as a media center for all villages engaged in non-violent demonstrations, including Bi'lin. Read more
According to a Ma'an News report, Israeli special police forces attempted to enter and conduct a search of a home in central Tel Aviv, shared by a number of left-wing activists. Activists refused to submit to the search because they were not provided with a search warrant.
At 11 a.m., three policemen targeted a second home which is the residence of an activist who had been detained at a protest against Israel's Operation Cast Lead in 2009. According to a witness, after the police entered the home they “turned the house upside down,” confiscating computers, pictures, clothing, and other items.
Another anonymous source said police forces intend to search at least eight more homes throughout the day.
This new development comes in the midst of increasing attacks on Israeli activists by Israel. In recent weeks, the Shabak, Israel’s intelligence service, has been calling Israeli protester to come in for “friendly chats.” All those who have receiving the calls have refused, since by law they are not required to comply with the requests unless they receive an official summons from the police.
Last week, well-known left-wing activist Johnathan Pollak was sentenced to three months in jail for his role in a small, non-violent protest held in Tel Aviv in 2008, against the Israeli siege on Gaza. Pollak was singled out from the other demonstrators and was the only protester who was arrested, leading many observers to believe that Pollak is being punished for his role in the Palestinian cause, and the fact that he is the spokesman for the West Bank's Popular Struggle Organizing Committee, which serves as a media center for all villages engaged in non-violent demonstrations, including Bi'lin. Read more
Former American justice minister arrives in Gaza
PIC- Ramsey Clark, the former American justice minister, arrived in the Gaza Strip via the Rafah border terminal heading a delegation at a late hour on Tuesday night.
Clark's arrival coincided with an Israeli aerial raid that targeted Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, and wounded a Palestinian citizen other than inflicting big damage to houses south of the city.
The government committee to receive delegations said that Clark was on a solidarity visit to Gaza to get acquainted on the overall conditions in the Strip following the last Israeli war and the siege and would meet with Palestinian premier Ismail Haneyya.
Clark visited Gaza around a year ago shortly before former American president Jimmy Carter also visited the besieged coastal enclave. Read more
Clark's arrival coincided with an Israeli aerial raid that targeted Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, and wounded a Palestinian citizen other than inflicting big damage to houses south of the city.
The government committee to receive delegations said that Clark was on a solidarity visit to Gaza to get acquainted on the overall conditions in the Strip following the last Israeli war and the siege and would meet with Palestinian premier Ismail Haneyya.
Clark visited Gaza around a year ago shortly before former American president Jimmy Carter also visited the besieged coastal enclave. Read more
Call for Israeli Facebook Groups to be closed down
IMEMC- The deputy Israeli Attorney-General has asked the police in Israel to investigate two Facebook groups for inciting racism against Arabs.
Haaretz reports today that Israel's deputy Attorney-General Shai Nitzan has instigated an enquiry into two Facebook groups - "Death to Arabs" and "Protest in Um Al Fahm against the Islamic Movement" - both of which are suspected of inciting violence. Read more
Haaretz reports today that Israel's deputy Attorney-General Shai Nitzan has instigated an enquiry into two Facebook groups - "Death to Arabs" and "Protest in Um Al Fahm against the Islamic Movement" - both of which are suspected of inciting violence. Read more
Israeli navy abducts Palestinian Fishermen off Gaza Port
IMEMC- Israeli navy detained, on Tuesday morning, an unspecified number of Palestinian fishermen who were fishing off the coast of Gaza City, local sources said.
Gaza's Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that the fishermen reported the detention after their boat was approached by Israeli warships. The men were apprehended and taken to an unknown location for interrogation. Read more
Gaza's Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that the fishermen reported the detention after their boat was approached by Israeli warships. The men were apprehended and taken to an unknown location for interrogation. Read more
Why are so many South American countries recognizing the Palestinian state?
Foreign Policy- ...The Palestinian Authority also plans to open an embassy in Ecuador soon, and Pinera plans to visit the West Bank in three months.
As blogger Greg Weeks notes, the interesting thing about this development is that it appears to be uncoordinated. As none of these countries have really involved themselves heavily in Israeli-Palestinian politics before, it's hard not to read this in the context of U.S.-South American relations and Brazil's rising influence. Uruguay was actually the first in the latest wave of Palestinian recognition, but the snowball really starting rolling after Brazil's announcemnt on Dec. 3, one of former President Lula da Silva's last acts in office.
Under Lula, Brazil has become an increasingly important player in Mideast politics, often taking positions directly at odds with U.S. policy. But the fact that governments ranging on the political spectrum from Sebastian Pinera's Chile to Hugo Chavez's Venezuela have been so quick to follow Brazil's lead on a political gesture guaranteed to annoy Washington, is a pretty good sign of where power is shifting on the continent.
The country to watch here is Colombia, traditionally staunchly pro-American, but increasingly, under President Juan Manuel Santos, willing to reach out to regional rivals. If Colombia signs on to supporting the Palestinian state -- they've been silent so far -- the Lula-Amorim foreign-policy legacy is going to start looking pretty impressive. Read more
As blogger Greg Weeks notes, the interesting thing about this development is that it appears to be uncoordinated. As none of these countries have really involved themselves heavily in Israeli-Palestinian politics before, it's hard not to read this in the context of U.S.-South American relations and Brazil's rising influence. Uruguay was actually the first in the latest wave of Palestinian recognition, but the snowball really starting rolling after Brazil's announcemnt on Dec. 3, one of former President Lula da Silva's last acts in office.
Under Lula, Brazil has become an increasingly important player in Mideast politics, often taking positions directly at odds with U.S. policy. But the fact that governments ranging on the political spectrum from Sebastian Pinera's Chile to Hugo Chavez's Venezuela have been so quick to follow Brazil's lead on a political gesture guaranteed to annoy Washington, is a pretty good sign of where power is shifting on the continent.
The country to watch here is Colombia, traditionally staunchly pro-American, but increasingly, under President Juan Manuel Santos, willing to reach out to regional rivals. If Colombia signs on to supporting the Palestinian state -- they've been silent so far -- the Lula-Amorim foreign-policy legacy is going to start looking pretty impressive. Read more
UN refuses Lebanon request to intervene in Israel gas drilling
Haaretz- Lebanese FM urged Ban Ki-moon to prevent Israel from exploiting Lebanon's maritime wealth, but UN spokesman says it won't demarcate border.
The United Nations on Wednesday declined Lebanon's request to protect the country's natural gas reserves by demarcating its maritime border with Israel.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Ali Shami sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon last Tuesday urging him to prevent Israel from exploiting Lebanon's oil and maritime wealth. He presented the UN with maps to support Lebanon's claims regarding these apparent borders. Read more
The United Nations on Wednesday declined Lebanon's request to protect the country's natural gas reserves by demarcating its maritime border with Israel.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Ali Shami sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon last Tuesday urging him to prevent Israel from exploiting Lebanon's oil and maritime wealth. He presented the UN with maps to support Lebanon's claims regarding these apparent borders. Read more
Jewish conference calls for "building Third Temple on ruins of Al-Aqsa Mosque"
Middle East Monitor- A conference of ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jews in West Jerusalem has called for the destruction of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the building of the "third temple" on its ruins. In response, the Aqsa Foundation for Endowment and Heritage warned of an escalation of the attempts by the Israeli occupation authorities and "its arms" - conferences such as this - to promote construction of the so-called "third temple" at the expense of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.
In a press release, the Foundation said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is behind these calls. The Jewish groups pushing for the temple have urged Netanyahu to fulfil his promise that in the event of his re-election, he would approve and arrange for Jewish prayers to be held in Al-Aqsa.
Ultra-orthodox Hasidim have become more active in recent weeks, targeting Al-Aqsa Mosque, desecrating it and working towards its "Judaization". Reports and pictures from the conference held on 30th December have been published on a number of right-wing and ultra-orthodox websites. Read more
In a press release, the Foundation said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is behind these calls. The Jewish groups pushing for the temple have urged Netanyahu to fulfil his promise that in the event of his re-election, he would approve and arrange for Jewish prayers to be held in Al-Aqsa.
Ultra-orthodox Hasidim have become more active in recent weeks, targeting Al-Aqsa Mosque, desecrating it and working towards its "Judaization". Reports and pictures from the conference held on 30th December have been published on a number of right-wing and ultra-orthodox websites. Read more
Video: 'One Family in Gaza', short film
One Family in Gaza from Jen Marlowe on Vimeo.
A note from filmmaker Jen Marlowe: Six months after the three-week Israeli assault that killed 1,390 Palestinians, I visited Gaza.
I had been to Gaza and to many other war zones numerous times in the past, but never had I left any place feeling as shattered as I did leaving Gaza in August 2009.. The feeling, I realized, came from having absorbed the trauma that the people I met in Gaza were still living through.
Though I did not intend to make a film, I brought my video camera with me. After all, so few internationals were getting into Gaza--it seemed important to have a means to document what I would see and hear there.
Friends met me at the crossing and began to show me some of the places most devastated in the assault. They brought me to an area where families whose homes had been destroyed in Beit Lahiya (northern Gaza Strip) were now living in a small tent city, in the shadow of a destroyed clinic that had been shelled from the sea.
I heard many painful stories, but one story--one family--the Awajah family--stood out to me. I spent three days with Kamal, Wafaa and their children, sleeping with them in their tent, talking to the parents, playing with the children and filming them and their story.
What compelled me to tell this family's story? Not only what they endured, but their strength and courage. I was moved by their tragedy but moved equally by the love for their children that came through Wafaa and Kamal's every word and action.
It is now the two-year anniversary of the assault on Gaza, and today, January 4th, is the two-year anniversary of what the Awajah family (and so many other families in Gaza) lived through. The 23-minute film is complete. Their story will now be told.
Video: Boston for Gaza
CommonDreams -Abby Zimet - Marking the two-year anniversary of Operation Cast Lead, activists protest the siege of Gaza by acting it out as part of Boston's First Night celebrations. Most striking: the bystanders' unanimous, level-headed reactions.
Ramsey Clark leads solidarity delegation in Gaza visit two years after Israeli assault
International Action Center- International human rights activist Ramsey Clark led a delegation that, after a day-long struggle for admission, crossed into Gaza on Jan. 4 to show solidarity with the blockaded population of the strip. Two years ago the Israeli military invaded and bombed Gaza two years ago, killing 1,450 Palestinians, almost all civilians, including many children. Among those with Clark is Co-director of the International Action Center Sara Flounders. Both are veteran solidarity activists with the struggle of Palestinians for self-determination and the right to live in peace and freedom in every part of Palestine..
The solidarity trip’s importance is underlined by the Israeli military’s threats to launch a new invasion. Israeli planes have aggressively attacked inside Gaza on Dec. 18, Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. The courage the Palestinians of Gaza showed confronting that assault has made Gaza a symbol of the determination of all Palestinians, whether in Gaza, the West Bank or in the Diaspora, to free their country.
The movement of solidarity with the people of Gaza has grown rapidly since the Dec. 27, 2008, bombing and invasion of Gaza. The ongoing Israeli blockade of the 1.5 million people living in the small territory and the continued Israeli threats have accelerated this movement’s growth. Behind this development is not only the exposure of the crimes of the Israeli occupation regime, but also the courage of Palestinians both in Gaza and the West Bank who keep on struggling against all odds.
Many young people and also older activists have organized aid delegations by land caravans and sea flotillas that bring material assistance to Gaza. Currently the Asian aid ship Salam, which started in India, is making its way toward Gaza, tracked by two Israeli warships. The caravan called Asia 1 entered Gaza yesterday. The new understanding of the oppressive character of the Israeli state has also given rise to the struggle for “Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions” against the regime there and in solidarity with the Palestinian struggle. Read more
The solidarity trip’s importance is underlined by the Israeli military’s threats to launch a new invasion. Israeli planes have aggressively attacked inside Gaza on Dec. 18, Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. The courage the Palestinians of Gaza showed confronting that assault has made Gaza a symbol of the determination of all Palestinians, whether in Gaza, the West Bank or in the Diaspora, to free their country.
The movement of solidarity with the people of Gaza has grown rapidly since the Dec. 27, 2008, bombing and invasion of Gaza. The ongoing Israeli blockade of the 1.5 million people living in the small territory and the continued Israeli threats have accelerated this movement’s growth. Behind this development is not only the exposure of the crimes of the Israeli occupation regime, but also the courage of Palestinians both in Gaza and the West Bank who keep on struggling against all odds.
Many young people and also older activists have organized aid delegations by land caravans and sea flotillas that bring material assistance to Gaza. Currently the Asian aid ship Salam, which started in India, is making its way toward Gaza, tracked by two Israeli warships. The caravan called Asia 1 entered Gaza yesterday. The new understanding of the oppressive character of the Israeli state has also given rise to the struggle for “Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions” against the regime there and in solidarity with the Palestinian struggle. Read more
Substantial evidence contradicts the Israeli army's version of the events surrounding the death of Palestinian non-violent coordinator
Press Release: The evidence surrounding the events leading to the death of Bil’in resident Jawaher Abu Rahmah disproves completely the army spokesperson’s version, to the point of putting the army in a ridiculous light. The army’s version is based on claims made anonymously, without any supporting evidence – unlike the version of the Abu Rahmah family and the Popular Coordinating Committee of Bil’in, which is detailed below.
For additional information: Jonathan Pollak 054-632-7736
Since yesterday, the army has been promoting in the Israeli media a mendacious version regarding the events that led to the death of Jawaher Abu Rahmah of Bil’in on Friday, 31 December 2010. According to the army’s version, Jawaher was not injured by tear gas and was possibly not even present at the demonstration. The army spokesperson did not see fit to publish an official statement on the matter, instead passing the information to the media in the name of anonymous “army sources.”
The facts of the matter, which are supported by the testimony of eyewitness who were present at the demonstration, as well as by the ambulance driver who evacuated her to the hospital, contradict completely the army’s version:
Soubhiya Abu Rahmah, mother of Jawaher: “I was standing beside Jawaher on the hill that is near the place where the demonstration took place, when we were injured by a cloud of tear gas. Jawaher began to feel unwell from inhaling the gas and started to move back from the place; soon after that she vomited and collapsed. We took her to the nearest road, and from there she was evacuated by ambulance to the hospital, where she remained until her death. She was not sick with cancer, nor did she have any other illness; and she was not asthmatic.”
Ilham Fathi: I was on the roof of my house, which is located a few meters from where Jawaher stood. When the cloud of tear gas moved in our direction, I went downstairs in order to close the windows. While I was closing one of the windows, I saw her lose consciousness from the gas and ran over to her, together with Islam Abu Rahmah, in order to pull her away. We picked her up together and carried her to my garden. We called for help and she began to vomit and foam at the mouth. Phone: 059-5127887
Islam Abu Rahmah: “I was standing with Jawaher, her mother and my grandmother in order to watch the confrontation that was going on just in front of us, in the area of the fence. The wind moved the gas in our direction, making our eyes itch and tear up. After that she (Jawaher) began to cough and foam at the mouth. Soon after that she became weak and lay down on the ground. I succeeded in carrying her as far as the Abu Khamis home, about 40 meters in the direction of her house, but then she became terribly weak, vomited violently and foamed at the mouth. She was having difficult breathing and lost her sense of direction. We got a few women to help her by waving a paper fan over her face in order to provide some oxygen. After that she was taken to the hospital.”
Saher Bisharat, the ambulance who evacuated Jawaher: “We received Jawaher near the entrance that is parallel to the fence, which is where the demonstration was taking place. She was still partially conscious, answered questions, and said that she had choked on gas. I took her straight to the hospital.” (Click here to view the Red Crescent report). Phone: 059-9374348
The army has also claimed that the reports about Abu Rahmeh’s injuries started to arrive only several hours after the incident, in the evening. That claim is contradicted by a tweet sent by the NGO Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP), which reports the injury of Jawaher, including her name, in real time (click here to view). The tweet was sent at 2:36 pm (4:36 am on the West Coast of the United States). Wafa, the Palestinian news service, published a report that includes the injury of Jawaher Abu Rahmah shortly after the event (click here to view).
Also according to “army sources,” which remain anonymous, Jawaher Abu Rahmah suffered from a serious illness, possibly leukemia; the “sources” postulate that she died from a pre-existing condition rather than tear gas inhalation. Several sources reject that claim.
Dr. Uday Abu Nahlah: “Jawaher Abu Rahmah was employed in my home on a regular basis. On Thursday she was at work as usual, healthy, only one day before her death.” Phone: 059-9796827 (English and Arabic).
Jawaher had an inner ear infection, which affected her balance, for which she was recently given a CT scan. The radiologist who performed the CT scan, Dr. Hamis Al Sahfi’i, confirmed that the brain scan was normal (for the CT scan results click here). Jawaher had a minor health issue involving fluids in her inner ear. Her physicians insist that she did not suffer from any illness or from any symptoms that might, if combined with tear gas, lead to her death.
There is not, nor could there be, any indication that Abu Rahmah had cancer; in fact, she was in good health. The director of the hospital refutes the claim that she died from a pre-existing condition:
Mohammed Aida, director of the Ramallah health center where Abu Rahmah received her care: “Jawaher Abu Rahmah died from lung failure that was caused by tear gas inhalation, leading to a heart attack. She arrived at the hospital only partly conscious, and then lost consciousness completely.” Click here for the hospital’s official medical report.
Mohammed Khatib, a member of Bil’in’s Popular Coordinating Committee: “The army is trying to evade its responsibility for Jawaher’s death with lies and invented narratives that have no basis. They are spreading these lies and invented narratives via the media, which is not bothering to do basic fact checking. Our version is supported by named sources and with medical documents. In a properly functioning society, the army’s version, which has been spread by anonymous sources, would not be considered worthy of publication.”
For additional information: Jonathan Pollak 054-632-7736
Since yesterday, the army has been promoting in the Israeli media a mendacious version regarding the events that led to the death of Jawaher Abu Rahmah of Bil’in on Friday, 31 December 2010. According to the army’s version, Jawaher was not injured by tear gas and was possibly not even present at the demonstration. The army spokesperson did not see fit to publish an official statement on the matter, instead passing the information to the media in the name of anonymous “army sources.”
The facts of the matter, which are supported by the testimony of eyewitness who were present at the demonstration, as well as by the ambulance driver who evacuated her to the hospital, contradict completely the army’s version:
Soubhiya Abu Rahmah, mother of Jawaher: “I was standing beside Jawaher on the hill that is near the place where the demonstration took place, when we were injured by a cloud of tear gas. Jawaher began to feel unwell from inhaling the gas and started to move back from the place; soon after that she vomited and collapsed. We took her to the nearest road, and from there she was evacuated by ambulance to the hospital, where she remained until her death. She was not sick with cancer, nor did she have any other illness; and she was not asthmatic.”
Ilham Fathi: I was on the roof of my house, which is located a few meters from where Jawaher stood. When the cloud of tear gas moved in our direction, I went downstairs in order to close the windows. While I was closing one of the windows, I saw her lose consciousness from the gas and ran over to her, together with Islam Abu Rahmah, in order to pull her away. We picked her up together and carried her to my garden. We called for help and she began to vomit and foam at the mouth. Phone: 059-5127887
Islam Abu Rahmah: “I was standing with Jawaher, her mother and my grandmother in order to watch the confrontation that was going on just in front of us, in the area of the fence. The wind moved the gas in our direction, making our eyes itch and tear up. After that she (Jawaher) began to cough and foam at the mouth. Soon after that she became weak and lay down on the ground. I succeeded in carrying her as far as the Abu Khamis home, about 40 meters in the direction of her house, but then she became terribly weak, vomited violently and foamed at the mouth. She was having difficult breathing and lost her sense of direction. We got a few women to help her by waving a paper fan over her face in order to provide some oxygen. After that she was taken to the hospital.”
Saher Bisharat, the ambulance who evacuated Jawaher: “We received Jawaher near the entrance that is parallel to the fence, which is where the demonstration was taking place. She was still partially conscious, answered questions, and said that she had choked on gas. I took her straight to the hospital.” (Click here to view the Red Crescent report). Phone: 059-9374348
The army has also claimed that the reports about Abu Rahmeh’s injuries started to arrive only several hours after the incident, in the evening. That claim is contradicted by a tweet sent by the NGO Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP), which reports the injury of Jawaher, including her name, in real time (click here to view). The tweet was sent at 2:36 pm (4:36 am on the West Coast of the United States). Wafa, the Palestinian news service, published a report that includes the injury of Jawaher Abu Rahmah shortly after the event (click here to view).
Also according to “army sources,” which remain anonymous, Jawaher Abu Rahmah suffered from a serious illness, possibly leukemia; the “sources” postulate that she died from a pre-existing condition rather than tear gas inhalation. Several sources reject that claim.
Dr. Uday Abu Nahlah: “Jawaher Abu Rahmah was employed in my home on a regular basis. On Thursday she was at work as usual, healthy, only one day before her death.” Phone: 059-9796827 (English and Arabic).
Jawaher had an inner ear infection, which affected her balance, for which she was recently given a CT scan. The radiologist who performed the CT scan, Dr. Hamis Al Sahfi’i, confirmed that the brain scan was normal (for the CT scan results click here). Jawaher had a minor health issue involving fluids in her inner ear. Her physicians insist that she did not suffer from any illness or from any symptoms that might, if combined with tear gas, lead to her death.
There is not, nor could there be, any indication that Abu Rahmah had cancer; in fact, she was in good health. The director of the hospital refutes the claim that she died from a pre-existing condition:
Mohammed Aida, director of the Ramallah health center where Abu Rahmah received her care: “Jawaher Abu Rahmah died from lung failure that was caused by tear gas inhalation, leading to a heart attack. She arrived at the hospital only partly conscious, and then lost consciousness completely.” Click here for the hospital’s official medical report.
Mohammed Khatib, a member of Bil’in’s Popular Coordinating Committee: “The army is trying to evade its responsibility for Jawaher’s death with lies and invented narratives that have no basis. They are spreading these lies and invented narratives via the media, which is not bothering to do basic fact checking. Our version is supported by named sources and with medical documents. In a properly functioning society, the army’s version, which has been spread by anonymous sources, would not be considered worthy of publication.”
Bil'in Popular committee
Bill being drafted to bar international peace activists from entering Israel
Alternative Information Center- Knesset Member Yariv Levin, of the right-wing Likud party, together with the pro-settlement group The Legal Forum for the Land of Israel, are currently working on an “anti-subversive” bill aimed at anarchists and supporters of the Palestinian call for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS).
If approved the law would allow Israel’s Interior Ministry to bar international activists from entering Israel. The law would apply restrictions to anyone who acts against Israel, denies the Holocaust, works to boycott Israel and/or attempts to place Israeli leaders on international trial for what they did in the line of duty, reported Arutz Sheva.
“The suggested legislation would apply to anyone who incites against the country, carries out verbal or physical attacks, organizes hostile activities or tries to interfere with foreign diplomatic and trade relations,” the news daily reported.
“The aim of the bill is to give the country the tools to deal with hostile elements that work against Israel from within the country and who endanger the security of Israeli citizens as well as foreign trade and diplomatic ties,” explained MK Levin. Read more
If approved the law would allow Israel’s Interior Ministry to bar international activists from entering Israel. The law would apply restrictions to anyone who acts against Israel, denies the Holocaust, works to boycott Israel and/or attempts to place Israeli leaders on international trial for what they did in the line of duty, reported Arutz Sheva.
“The suggested legislation would apply to anyone who incites against the country, carries out verbal or physical attacks, organizes hostile activities or tries to interfere with foreign diplomatic and trade relations,” the news daily reported.
“The aim of the bill is to give the country the tools to deal with hostile elements that work against Israel from within the country and who endanger the security of Israeli citizens as well as foreign trade and diplomatic ties,” explained MK Levin. Read more
Israeli Rabbi says women should not drive
Malaysia News- A Israeli rabbi has put out a religious decree banning Jewish women from driving or learning to drive.
The influential rabbi, Avraham Yosef, has said women should not get behind a wheel unless absolutely necessary.
His order prohibits women from driving in areas populated by ultra-orthodox Jews.
Rabbi Yosef is the rabbi in charge the city of Holon.
He has justified his decree by saying that driving for women does not reflect modesty or chastity, especially in cities inhabited by religious people.
Recently, another rabbi, Shmuel Halevi, issued a similar prohibition saying the seductive appearance of women distracted men drivers, resulting in accidents. Read more
The influential rabbi, Avraham Yosef, has said women should not get behind a wheel unless absolutely necessary.
His order prohibits women from driving in areas populated by ultra-orthodox Jews.
Rabbi Yosef is the rabbi in charge the city of Holon.
He has justified his decree by saying that driving for women does not reflect modesty or chastity, especially in cities inhabited by religious people.
Recently, another rabbi, Shmuel Halevi, issued a similar prohibition saying the seductive appearance of women distracted men drivers, resulting in accidents. Read more
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Report: Israeli forces issue 16 evacuation orders to Palestinian residences
Ma'an- Israel's civil administration handed 16 evacuation orders to Palestinians in a community northeast of the West Bank city of Tubas, a local center said.
...According to the group, the orders stated that if the residents failed to leave the area, their homes would be demolished and their livestock confiscated.
The center added that while Palestinians were banned from the area, Israeli settlers and soldiers could use the land. Read more
...According to the group, the orders stated that if the residents failed to leave the area, their homes would be demolished and their livestock confiscated.
The center added that while Palestinians were banned from the area, Israeli settlers and soldiers could use the land. Read more
Press Release: Egypt stalls Asian humanitarian aid caravan to Gaza, passengers include former Member of Parliament, student leader, senior journalist
Pakistanis for Palestine- The ship Salam carrying about 1m $ worth of humanitarian aid for Gaza accompanying the first Asia to Gaza Caravan is not being allowed to dock for reasons as yet unknown at the Al Arish port of Egypt. 8 members of the Caravan, consisting of 4 Indians, Brigadier Sudhir Sawant, former Member of Parliament, Ajit Sahi, senior journalist, Sheheen Kattiparambil, young activist of Jamat-e-Islami, Aslam Khan, student leader of All India Students Association, as well as Koichi Sakaguchi from Japan, Hakim Alizade from Azerbaijan, Muhammad Husein from Indonesia and Norazli Bin Musa from Malaysia, are aboard the ship which left Latakia, Syria, on the morning of 1st January, 2011. The ship has been anchoring about 1 km away from the Al Arish port for about a day now.
Meanwhile over a hundred members of the Caravan have already reached Gaza after a 4 hour hold-up at the Al Arish airport late evening on 2nd January.
The Caravan was apprehensive of interception by Israel, whose two ships and a helicopter followed Salam for almost the whole of daytime on 2nd January. But stalling by Egypt has come as a total surprise. This is the first time that aid for Gaza is being stalled by Egypt. Read more
Meanwhile over a hundred members of the Caravan have already reached Gaza after a 4 hour hold-up at the Al Arish airport late evening on 2nd January.
The Caravan was apprehensive of interception by Israel, whose two ships and a helicopter followed Salam for almost the whole of daytime on 2nd January. But stalling by Egypt has come as a total surprise. This is the first time that aid for Gaza is being stalled by Egypt. Read more
Netanyahu asks Obama to pardon spy
Ma'an-AFP- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked US President Barack Obama to pardon an American who spied for Israel, and the White House said Tuesday it was reviewing the request.
"Two weeks ago I received a letter from the prison, from Jonathan (Pollard), which asked me to request openly -- I emphasise openly -- as prime minister of Israel, for the president of the United States to make an official request for his release," Netanyahu told parliament on Tuesday evening. Read more
"Two weeks ago I received a letter from the prison, from Jonathan (Pollard), which asked me to request openly -- I emphasise openly -- as prime minister of Israel, for the president of the United States to make an official request for his release," Netanyahu told parliament on Tuesday evening. Read more
PFLP founder dies at 86
Ma'an- Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine founder Ahmad Al--Yamani died in Beirut on Tuesday at the age of 86, PFLP politburo member Jamil Majdalawi said.
Speaking on Ma'an Radio, Majdalawi said Al-Yamani, known as Abu Maher, was a great Palestinian activist and a national leader. Read more
Speaking on Ma'an Radio, Majdalawi said Al-Yamani, known as Abu Maher, was a great Palestinian activist and a national leader. Read more
Rally for aid ship reveals nature of Turkey-Israel ties
NPR- The crowd roared as the names of the nine dead men were read out, and activists — including an Israeli-born Swede — called on the international community to remember the people of Gaza. Israel has eased some overland restrictions on Gaza recently, but a visit by NPR earlier this month found that the improvements had barely dented the massive poverty gripping the tiny, overcrowded strip.
...Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said over the weekend that Turkey still intends to have peaceful relations with Israel.
But 69-year-old Mustafa Ogut voiced the more popular view here when he said he would never forgive his government if it dropped its demand for an apology from Israel.
"No, I don't think ties should be normalized," he said. "Israel definitely needs to apologize, to Turkey and to the Muslim world, and that's why we are united. We are one fist together."
...Relations Hardening
In Israel, hard-line Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman was only too pleased to respond in kind. In a speech criticized at home and abroad, Lieberman called the Turkish foreign minister and prime minister "liars" and said Turkey should be the one to apologize.
Such comments suggest it may be a chilly winter of enmity for two countries that long enjoyed relatively good relations. And come spring, the owners of the Mavi Marmara say the ship will make another voyage to Gaza to mark the one-year anniversary of the May 31 fatalities. Read more
...Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said over the weekend that Turkey still intends to have peaceful relations with Israel.
But 69-year-old Mustafa Ogut voiced the more popular view here when he said he would never forgive his government if it dropped its demand for an apology from Israel.
"No, I don't think ties should be normalized," he said. "Israel definitely needs to apologize, to Turkey and to the Muslim world, and that's why we are united. We are one fist together."
...Relations Hardening
In Israel, hard-line Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman was only too pleased to respond in kind. In a speech criticized at home and abroad, Lieberman called the Turkish foreign minister and prime minister "liars" and said Turkey should be the one to apologize.
Such comments suggest it may be a chilly winter of enmity for two countries that long enjoyed relatively good relations. And come spring, the owners of the Mavi Marmara say the ship will make another voyage to Gaza to mark the one-year anniversary of the May 31 fatalities. Read more
Israeli police detain director of Palestinian community center
Ma'an- Israeli police on Tuesday detained the director of an East Jerusalem community center, a statement from the group said. Read more
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