Aqsa News, Issue 59, November 2015 by Friends of Al Aqsa

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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AQSA NEWS 2

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Boycott Campaigns BDS victory in Iceland’s capital Page 22

Friends of Al-Aqsa newspaper since 1997

Israeli soldiers attack journalists in the West Bank

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Egypt floods Gaza’s tunnels with seawater

Palestinian rights supporter wins leadership of UK party

Tensions mount in Jerusalem Fears of third intifada in Palestine

In recent weeks, tensions have been rapidly increasing in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Violent confrontations at AlAqsa, sparked by the daily trespass by extremist Israeli settlers accompanied by fully armed soldiers and police have created an extremely volatile situation. During Eid al-Adha, Palestinians were restricted from worshipping at AlAqsa, and Israel has been limiting access to Muslim worshippers allowing only males over 50 and women to enter the mosque. Numerous scenes of confrontations and attacks on Palestinians outside the mosque walls have been posted up on social media. Since the end of September, Israel has used

excessive force against Palestinians, including a number of extrajudicial killings. During October, over 60 Palestinians were killed and over 2,000 were injured by live ammunition and rubber-coated steel bullets. Many of those killed posed no threat, and much of the injured were protesting against Israeli violations. Social media has been pivotal in capturing what is happening on the ground. Graphic images and videos have been circulating online, which have left many wondering if we are witnessing the 3rd intifada unfold, with Palestinians no longer able to suppress themselves against continued attack.

News

Special Feature

Recipe

Culture

Travel to Palestine

Harsher punishments for Palestinian stone throwers

Netanyahu’s visit to the UK sparks protests

Attacks at the Sacred Al-Aqsa

Manakish

Palestinian Museum to open in the West Bank by 2016

Volunteer in Palestine

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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2 INSIDE PALESTINE

Israeli soldiers attacks journalists in the West Bank New video footage shot by Palmedia shows Israeli soldiers attacking two Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalists. The soldiers were seen smashing and destroying equipment during a demonstration in the West Bank. Andrea Bernardi, an Ital-

ian journalist, was forcefully thrown to the ground and stabbed in the side with a weapon, according to AFP. Bernardi suffered bruised ribs and an injury beneath his eye and received hospital treatment after the attack. The two journalists had arrived in the village of Beit

Furik near Nablus to cover a demonstration after the funeral of a Palestinian who had died after being shot by Israeli security forces. AFP has protested to the Israeli military over the unprovoked attack and intends on filing an official complaint.

‘Price-tag’ attacks The impunity of extremist illegal Israeli settlers

Hebron

On Friday 31 July, Ali Dawabsha, an 18-monthold Palestinian infant, was burnt to death by extremist Israeli settlers who attacked his home as his family slept. While the world grappled with this atrocious crime, for Palestinians this represented yet another attack which had gone unpunished. Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, denounced the murder as a “war crime”, and blamed Israel. Why blame a state for the actions of a few extremist citizens? The simple answer is that Israel has for years allowed settler violence against Palestinians to go unpunished despite the nature of the atrocious attacks, and the misery brought upon Pal-

estinians by these extremists spreading terror in the West Bank. The so-called ‘price tag’ attacks are carried out by illegal settlers who have no respect for any law, whether Israeli or international. They include murder; physical assaults ranging from serious injury to spitting in the faces of babies; uprooting hundreds of fruit trees and burning entire orchards. The settlers in the West Bank are often armed and can be extremely violent; yet they are protected by the heavily armed IDF. Palestinians facing settler violence on the other hand, do not receive IDF protection despite soldiers often watching the attacks according to eye wit-

ness testimonies. The lack of arrest and prosecution of extremist settlers has resulted in an increase in violence against Palestinians. The Molotov cocktail thrown into the Dawabsha family home at 1.30am at night was another act of extreme violence against Palestinians, with no regard for the obvious harm that would be caused. The murder of Ali Dawabsha is not an isolated case, but rather a manifestation of Israel’s apartheid and racist system. As long as Israel continues to support and fund its illegal settlement activity in the West Bank, and fails to prosecute settlers for the daily violence they inflict on Palestinians, the greater the violence becomes.

21-year-old Diyaa Abdul Halim Talahmah was shot by Israeli forces in Hebron in September during protests in Hebron which were violently quelled by Israeli forces. The Israeli army claimed that Diyaa died while throwing an improvised explosive device that exploded prematurely. This account, like many other testimonies

from Israeli soldiers, does not stand up to scrutiny. Palestinian eyewitnesses said the soldiers shot Diyaa, which was verified by medical officials who examined his body. This has led to a great deal of anger amongst the local people. This is not the first time that false reports have been made by Israeli army officials. The Israeli

human rights organisation, B’tselem, have accused the army of whitewashing the murders of hundreds of innocent Palestinian civilians. Israel’s failure to investigate such crimes has led to a great deal of anger amongst the Palestinian population, who are continuously denied recourse to justice.

In the latest act of senseless violence, Israeli forces in Hebron repeatedly shot a 17-year old girl, Hadeel alHashlamon at a check point. Eyewitnesses reported that the soldiers then prevented medics from reaching her, leaving Hadeel to bleed from her wounds. This is verified by video and photographic evidence which has since emerged. When she eventually reached hospital,

doctors were unable to save her. Israeli officials claimed that Hadeel attempted to stab a solider using a knife and this led to her being shot in the legs. However, Youth Against Settlements group released photos showing Hadeel posed no threat to the soldiers confirming that the Israeli accounts were deliberate lies. Amnesty International

stated the killing of 18-year old Hadeel al-Hashlamoun by Israeli soldiers was an “extrajudicial execution.” Hadeel’s murder is not an isolated case, and Israeli soldiers continue to act with impunity. Calls are being made for this crime to be properly investigated. However, past precedent suggests no one will be charged for the death of this Palestinian teen.

Amnesty labels killing of Hadeel al-Hashlamon an ‘extrajudicial execution’

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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INSIDE PALESTINE 3

Harsher punishments for Palestinian stone throwers

Israel has passed new laws allowing disproportionate use of force and measures against Palestinians stone throwers. Netanyahu announced

“significant fines” would be imposed on Palestinian children who throw stones and other objects, as well as for their parents. The measures will impose a minimum of

Egypt floods Gaza’s tunnels with seawater Egyptian military have been transferring Mediterranean Sea water to the Rafah border in order to fill a newly-built crude canal. This has resulted in the flooding and destruction of Gaza’s lifeline tunnels, connecting Gaza to Egypt. There are currently 1.8 million people living in Gaza, who use these tunnels for the basic essentials denied to them by the 9-year Israeli blockade. The blockade has resulted in unprecedented poverty in Gaza. Recent UN

reports estimate Gaza will be made uninhabitable by 2020. The international community has failed to respond to this grim forecast. Gaza has also been suffering from a shortage of clean water leading to long-term problems. Mayor of Rafah, Subhi Radwan confirmed that the Sea water is causing damage and destruction and is leaking into Gaza’s aquifer. He is concerned that the water shortage could lead to the forced migration of the local population.

4-years in prison for minors. Israeli soldiers have also been given permission to use live ammunition against Palestinian stone throwers. Israel has previously ap-

proved laws that impose up to 20 years in prison for Palestinians throwing rocks at moving vehicles. Palestinian children throw stones as an act of de-

fiance against an occupation force which is suppressing their rights to life, freedom and liberty at every level. No modern democracy in the world responds to defiant

children with live bullets. In 2014, 12 Palestinian minors were shot and killed by Israeli forces during protests in the West Bank.

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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4 GLOBAL NEWS Palestine’s first professional basketball player Sani Sakakini is Palestine’s first professional basketball player and hopes to become the first Palestinian to play in the NBA. “I am trying to prove to people in my country that I am trying to build something from nothing,” Sani Sakakini says. Sakakini grew up in the occupied West Bank in the city of Ramallah. At the young age of 26 he has already played three seasons in China, which helped him fund his trip to the United States to impress NBA scouts. Jerry Settle, Palestine’s basketball coach states, ““He is interested in doing what is the best for everyone. He hasn’t run off and left his people. He knows where he’s from. He’s been trying to help the people of Palestine and teach them the game. He’s trying to change a culture.”

119 of 193 UN member states voted yes at the general assembly in favour of flying the Palestine flag at the UN. The resolution is a momentous step towards international recognition of Palestine’s national aspirations as well as their existence and right to self-determination. “It’s a step to the recognition of Palestine as a full member state at the United believed that some dreams Nations,” stated Palestinian do come true. I couldn’t beprime minister Rami Hamlieve I would actually have dallah. the chance to visit and train at one of the greatest universities in the world. Everyone told me I didn’t have the slightest chance of being accepted, so when I was, I couldn’t believe it. I was among just 50 students from all over the world to be selected for this training at Oxford. It is only a two-month course, but let’s face it, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I succeeded in getting my chance to study at Oxford. However, others failed and many others are still trying. In my university class there were about 18 students who were supposed to travel and take similar courses in Malaysia, Turkey, Jordan and Germany. But because of the border closings and eightyear blockade, they all lost their chance and are still in Gaza after years or months of trying for the opportunity to study outside. Being a Palestinian means an endless process of suffering. If you’re a Gazan, 343 UK academics have your suffering will even be worse. Will it ever cease? No pledged to boycott Israeli academic institutions. The deone knows. cision calls for an end to Israel’s human rights violations and its illegal occupation of By Said Al-Yacoubi Source: We Are not Numbers Palestinian lands. Last year, the Palestinian Campaign for the Cultural and Academic Boycott of Israel (PACBI)

From Gaza to Oxford: Persistence triumphs over tyranny As I prepare to leave the UK to return to Gaza, my mind is a jumble of thoughts. When I originally filed my visa application so that I could study in the UK, my mind was a mess. I was chasing a dream and agonising

over whether it was going to come true. In the month before I finally arrived on June 18, I was fed up and exhausted as I completed applications and tried to follow the right procedures to get permission to leave

Gaza. I wondered, “should I keep trying to get out of Gaza when it seems impossible, or just give up my dream?” It was two years ago that I was accepted into a clinical training program at Oxford University. Until then, I never

Palestine flag flies at UN headquarters

Palestinian representative to the UN, Riyad Mansour, responded to the vote, saying, “It is a symbolic thing, but another step to solidify the pillars of the state of Palestine in the international arena,” according to Al-Jazeera. “The sense of pride among the Palestinian people was overwhelming the day the world voted in favour of this landmark initiative,” president Mahmoud Abbas wrote in the Huffington Post.

343 UK academics boycott Israeli Universities

called for an academic boycott against Israeli academic institutions. This is the first time academics have signed their names and committed themselves to actively disengaging from Israel’s university institutions, while affirming their personal dedication to the liberation of Palestine.

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

GLOBAL NEWS 5

Netanyahu’s visit to the UK sparks protests

Hundreds of demonstrators stood outside Downing Street protesting Bejamin Natanyahu’s visit to the UK. His two-day visit in London included talks with David Cameron on foreign policy in the Middle East. Weeks before Netanyahu’s arrival, 107,000 citizens in the UK signed an online petition for his arrest after last year’s at-

tack on Gaza, also known as ‘Operation Protective Edge’, which resulted in the deaths of 2,139 Palestinians, including more than 500 children. Protestors demanded that Netanyahu be prosecuted for his war crimes during Operation Protective Edge. They left a very clear message that Netanyahu is not welcome in Britain.

Palestinian rights supporter wins leadership of UK party On Saturday 12 September, Jeremy Corbyn was elected as the head of the UK Labour Party. The leftwing lawmaker and outspoken supporter of Palestinian rights won almost 60 percent of the votes. In his victory speech, Corbyn spoke about social solidarity, working to eradicate poverty at home, and being a beacon of peace abroad. “Let us be a force for change in the world, a force for humanity in the world, a force for peace in the world,” the new leader said. Corbyn has visited Palestine nine times and supports a number of BDS initiatives. He is also a patron of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and is well known for his support for Palestinian rights. His victory highlights mainstream political support for Palestinian rights in the UK.

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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6 SPECIAL FEATURE

Attacks at the Sacred Al-Aqsa #HandsOffAlAqsa Top tweets:

Palestinians sweep up rock debris in al-Aqsa Mosque after clashes with Israeli police.

Attack on Al-Aqsa at Eid al-Adha

As Palestinians marked the final day of Eid al-Adha celebrations, Israeli soldiers continued to attack the AlAqsa compound. Witnesses say Israeli forces used stun grenades and rubber-coated steel bullets, targeting worshipers. The violent attacks follow a week of increased tensions and a number of confrontations at the compound, and wider violence against Palestinians throughout the West Bank. The cause of much of the tensions has been the regular trespass onto the site by extremist settler groups, who are escorted by fully armed soldiers/police who use brutal force against Palestinian worshippers in the area as these civilians defend their basic rights and property. Israel has imposed con-

stant restrictions on Muslim worshippers wishing to enter the site in recent weeks in an unprecedented move, which belies Israel’s intent to undermine Palestinian sovereignty over the site. In a newly established schedule, Israeli Jews have been permitted to tour the compound between the hours of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., during which Muslim entry is severely restricted. East Jerusalem, where the Al-Aqsa Mosque is located, was illegally seized by Israel during the 1967 SixDay war. The international community have never recognised Israel’s annexation of the area. Al-Aqsa is Islam’s holiest site in Jerusalem. The struggle to protect Al-Aqsa is coupled with the ongoing struggle to end the occupation.

Al-Aqsa Intifada anniversary amid escalating violence The Al-Aqsa intifada, or uprising against Israeli occupation began on 28th September 2000 and lasted until February 2005, resulting in the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians. It was sparked by a deliberately provocative incursion into the holy sanctuary by then Defence Minister Ariel Sharon, flanked by 1,000 security guards. The violence which followed was well-documented by the world’s media, and began with the killing of 12 year old Muhammad al-Durrah captured by a French television crew. Violence within Al-Aqsa has not abated in the years since, with the situation becoming catastrophic in recent weeks. Israeli army Incursions and settler violence has become a frequent occurrence and worshippers face attack and arrest as a matter of course. Israeli forces have used punitive force against Palestinians this has included the use of live ammunition and stun grenades. Israel has also used snipers on the roof of the mosque firing excessive rubber bullets at Palestinian worshippers. 10 years since the end of the Al-Aqsa intifada Palestinians are still resisting the violent Israeli occupation, with no sign of any peace agreements. The violence won’t end until the occupation ends.

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

SPECIAL FEATURE 7

Israeli police scuffle with Palestinians who were prevented from entering the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in the Old City of Jerusalem.

Israeli mob encourages execution of Palestinian teen in Jerusalem

In early October, Israeli forces executed 19-year-old Palestinian, Fadi Alloun outside of the Old City in Jerusalem. According to Israeli authorities Alloun was killed after the stabbing attack that wounded an Israeli teenager. However, no evidence was presented connecting Alloun to the stabbing. Videos have been circulating online showing a crowd of Israeli’s shouting, “shoot him!” Alloun is seen trying to escape from the mob. An Israeli police officer then shoots down Alloun while the Israeli mob

celebrates the murder, exclaiming “death to Arabs”. The Israeli police continue to block off the Muslim quarter of the Old City, severely restricting access to al-Aqsa. Palestinian homes and property have also faced attack. The PRCS is trying to provide desperately needed emergency services, yet the army has attacked its vehicles and medical staff 53 times. 37 emergency medical technicians have been wounded and up to 20 ambulances have been damaged.

Is the status quo of al-Aqsa changing? Jerusalem remains at the heart of the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis. The peace process has come to a complete standstill, which is buying Israel more time to further annex Palestinian land and change the status quo of al-Aqsa. Although Benjamin Netanyahu says that the status quo will not change, right-wing settler groups want that to change. According to the 1967 agreement Israeli authorities made after illegally occupying Jerusalem, all faiths are allowed to visit the compound but only Muslims are allowed to pray there, while Jewish prayer is allowed at the Western Wall. The situation at al-Aqsa is volatile with recent increased tensions around the area. Netanyahu says his government plans to broaden the mandate of Israel’s army following weeks of fighting with Palestinian protestors in the al-Aqsa compound. Palestinians have come under fierce attack as they try to prevent repeated violent assaults by Israeli occupation forces into Jerusalem’s al-Aqsa mosque compound. Ring-wing Israeli settler groups, who are adamant on replacing the mosque with a Jewish temple are proclaiming their presence in the compound ever more violently. Israeli forces storming of al-Aqsa mosque, which is becoming more frequent, is seen as part of a gradual settler colonial effort to take over al-Aqsa.

What can you do for Masjid al-Aqsa? 1. Join FOA’s campaign #handsoffalaqsa

2. Help raise awareness about the dangers Masjid alAqsa faces. 3. Write to your MP highlight the issue further, calling for an end to violence and destruction at the al-Aqsa mosque.

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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8 FOA UPDATES Branch Updates

A Message The events in Palestine during October 2015 have shocked even those who have become hardened to Israel’s human rights abuses. Teenagers of today who were born when the Second Intifada started in 2000 are seeing history repeat itself, and these children are the ones facing the brunt of the occupation soldier’s new policies. ‘Shoot to kill’ is now being employed against anyone thought to be a threat. Thus, young teenage girls at checkpoints are executed in cold blood, shot repeatedly at point blank range. Teenage boys who run for cover, are killed by police while crowds bray and scream their approval. This situation is the new reality that Israel is imposing on those whom it occupies. Israeli Politicians con-

Yorkshire

tinue with empty words of condemnation, failing to follow them up with arrests or imprisonment. The result is a culture of impunity which is creating a population of illegal settlers who are incapable of humanity when it comes to their Palestinian neighbours. And at the same time, a Palestinian, no matter how young or old, need only be suspected of a crime to be shot and killed. These Israeli actions are having a massive impact on global perceptions. The global movement for the boycott of Israel goes from strength to strength not because of the proPalestinian movement, but because the state of Israel has lost its moral compass. Ismail Patel

Follow on Twitter: @Ismailadampatel

Manchester

The Yorkshire braches of FOA took part in a sponsored walk in the picturesque Malham Cove located in the Yorkshire Dale National Park. The event was an excellent opportunity for families and children to have a great day out, visit one of the UK’s national treasures, interact with people of other faiths and nationalities, while be-

ing reminded about FOA’s work and how people can become involved. It was also an opportunity to initiate local fund raising projects. The overall objective of the event was to act as a ‘thank you’ day out for all participants who regularly show their support for FOA events locally and nationally.

Dewsbury and Batley

FOA Manchester is focussing on “Al-Aqsa in danger” and organised a hugely successful public event, addressing the escalation of violence at Al-Aqsa which started a few days before Eid al-Adha. The event was addressed by FOA chair, Ismail Patel, who highlighted the historical significance of the Al-

Aqsa Mosque and discussed the mounting dangers faced by Al-Aqsa today. The event helped to educate local communities about the occupation, especially regarding the changing status quo of AlAqsa and Jerusalem. To join the FOA Manchester branch, please contact Manchester@foa.org.uk

FOA Dewsbury and Batley are focussing on working closely with local MPs ensuring political engagement is taking place at the grassroots level. Dewsbury MP, Paula Sherriff recently visited Palestine with the Council for Arab-British Understanding. Ms. Sherriff has shown an interest in becoming an advocate of the Palestinian cause and said that her visit has deeply moved and

inspired her to do more for Palestine as her role as a MP. During her visit she witnessed a 10-year-old boy being unjustly arrested by 5 Israeli soldiers in the late evening. She was utterly appalled by the soldier’s actions. The experience has enabled her to gain a better understand of the conflict and what the Israeli occupation means for Palestinians.

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 58 | RAMADHAN 2015

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10 FOA LEICESTER UPDATE

SHOP ONLINE TODAY

FOA.ORG.UK/SHOP

MADE IN PALESTINE KEFFIYEH

AND MANY MORE PRODUCTS

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 55 | RAMADHAN 2014

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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12 FUN AND GAMES

COMPETITION!

Write a short poem on Palestine, you can talk about the following topics:

NATURE

HISTORY

AL-AQSA

CULTURE

The prize will be given to the most creative poem. Entries must be received by Friday 11th December E-mail your poem to: info@foa.org.uk (ask an adult to send your entry if you do not have an email address) Don’t forget to include your name and address! Good luck!

COLOUR THE PICTURE

SEE MORE AT https://latuffcartoons.wordpress.com/

If you are aged below 18, you can enter our competition!

CARTOON BY CARLOS LATUFF

WIN £20 Shopping voucher!

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

FUN AND GAMES 13

SUDOKU CAN YOU SOLVE THE PUZZLE?

WORDSEARCH

MAZE CAN YOU HELP ME FIND MY WAY TO THE PARK?

Jericho Jerusalem Gaza

Hebron Ramallah Jenin

Tulkarm Bethlehem

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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14 RECIPE

Herbs and Spices used in Palestinian cooking Manakish

Method

Ingredients For the flat bread dough: • 2 cups all-purpose-flour • 2 tsp dried yeast • 1/2 tsp salt • 1tsp sugar • 1 1/2 cup warm water For the filling: • 3/4 cup za’atar mix (pre-mixed dried thyme with sumac and sesame seeds) • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Divide dough into 8 por• To make the filling, mix tions and roll each portion za’atar and olive oil and set between your palms like a aside. ball shape. • To make the dough, sift the flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a bowl adding water gradually until the dough comes together leaving the sides of the bowl clean. Knead until it feels smooth and elastic. Cover with cling film and leave it in a warm place for about 2 hours, until it has doubled in size. • Pre-heat the oven to gas mark 7/220°C /425F/.

Za’atar is the Arabic word for thyme, it is also the word used for thyme spice mixture. The Palestinian za’atar that most are familiar with, contains ground thyme, ground sumac, toasted sesame seeds and salt. The wild thyme grows in the hills around Jerusalem and throughout Palestine. How Za’atar Is Used Fresh za’atar, has many uses in Palestinian cuisine. It is often chopped into a salad, dressed simply with lemon, olive oil and sumac.

• On a floured working surface, roll each ball flat using a rolling pin until even and about ¼ inch thick. • Spoon the za’atar mixture over the disk-shaped bread. • Slide your bread on a lightly greased baking sheet and cook for about 5 minutes or until the dough is crispy and brown. Serve warm.

It can also be chopped and mixed into bread dough. Za’atar can be used as Medicinal tea, Palestinians strongly believe in the healing powers of the herb thyme (za’atar) particularly if you have a cold, it is simply made from the steeped leaves of fresh or dried thyme. The most popular za’atar dish is called Manakish, a fragrant flat bread spread with a mixture of olive oil and za’atar.

Book Review

Huma’s Travel guide to Palestine

If you are thinking of visiting Palestine this is the travel guide for you. Huma’s Travel guide to Palestine is immersed in history, religious traditions and the sacrifice of its people. It is an essential book for every Muslim household as it covers in detail information on Jerusalem, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and historical Palestine. Each city is filled with important travel information from in-depth historical sites, accommodation and places to eat. The book also provides: • Useful maps • A language and culture guide • Fiqh of travel • Biographies of key Palestinian personalities

Written by: Ismail Adam Patel and Arwa Aburawa.

I come from there I come from there and I have memories Born as mortals are, I have a mother And a house with many windows, I have brothers, friends, And a prison cell with a cold window. Mine is the wave, snatched by sea-gulls, I have my own view, And an extra blade of grass. Mine is the moon at the far edge of the words, And the bounty of birds, And the immortal olive tree. I walked this land before the swords Turned its living body into a laden table. I come from there. I render the sky unto her mother When the sky weeps for her mother. And I weep to make myself known To a returning cloud. I learnt all the words worthy of the court of blood So that I could break the rule. I learnt all the words and broke them up To make a single word: Homeland..... Mahmoud Darwish

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CULTURE 15

The Fishermen of Gaza ‘The Fishermen of Gaza’ exhibition highlights the illegal sea blockade, and the brutality of the Israeli occupation against innocent Gaza fishermen, who simply want to work and live with dignity. Artists for Palestine are using photography as a medium to capture how the occupation impacts daily Palestinian life. Belgian photographer Asmaa Seba hopes

her new exhibition will honour and pay tribute to the brave fishermen of Gaza. Gaza fishermen are under a strict blockade and must keep within the 6 nautical mile radius, which is constantly policed by Israel. They often face harassment, boat seizures, the destroying of fishing nets and arrests. As a result, Gaza’s fishermen continue to face huge loss of

income, leading families to live in abject poverty. According to Seba, “The brutal Israeli occupation of land, sky and sea is destroying vital infrastructures and killing thousands of civilians. Today Gaza lies in ruins. Where once Gaza exported fish and other seafood, today it can’t even feed its own people.”

The Palestinian history tapestry project aims to tell the story of Palestinian heritage through traditional embroidery. By using the art of embroidery the project aims to preserve the heritage of Palestinian ancestry. What makes this project so unique

is that Palestinian women are using art as a means to reclaim their identity and share their history, but also to ensure that it is not lost. “The History Tapestry Project will empower Palestinian women, enabling them to engage in income generating activity whilst

telling the story of the villages and towns, the life and heritage of their ancestors and forebears, the indigenous people of Palestine, through beautiful skilled embroidery, and the Palestinian History Tapestry Project.” Jan Chalmers, co-founder of the project.

The $30 million Palestinian Museum is scheduled to open in the West Bank in spring 2016. The museum is located on the campus of Birzeit University in the West Bank and will be “dedicated to preserving and celebrating the culture, society, and history of Palestine over the past two centuries,” organisers explained. Several local and international donors have helped to fund the museum. The opening ceremony of the Palestinian Museum is set to take place on May 15, 2015. The

opening date is symbolic as it coincides with the Nakba or ‘catastrophe’. The Nakba refers to the day when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forced into exile as a result of the creation of Israel in 1948. The Palestinian Museum seeks to keep Palestine’s memory alive by incorporating historical narratives of Palestinians from across the occupied Palestinian territories (the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip, present-day Israel and the diaspora).

The Palestine history tapestry project

Palestinian Museum to open in the West Bank by 2016

Gaza monologues

The Gaza Monologues is a powerful play created by Ashtar Theatre, which was founded in Jerusalem in 1991. The play was used as a drama therapy initiative and is written by young Palestinians aged between 14-16. The stories reflect per-

sonal experiences giving the audience a snapshot of the lives of young Gazan’s living under conflict and occupation. The play is deeply moving and takes a look at the human impact of Israel’s bombardment in Gaza in 2008/9, also known as Op-

eration Cast Lead. The Gaza Monologues has been performed in cities around the world from Gaza, Ramallah, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Stockholm, Vancouver, Beijing, Sydney and many more, including the UN Headquarters in New York.

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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16 TRAVEL TO PALESTINE

Volunteer in Palestine VIP aims to provide people with the opportunity to visit Palestine and volunteer their skills to help underprivileged Palestinians.

Volunteers from a recent trip have been speaking about their experiences.

“

Visiting Palestine was so much more than just a volunteering opportunity. It was an experience of a life time. I got to see for myself, what life is like living under occupation. I got to meet with the friendly locals, and listen to many of their stories. I spent time meeting & getting to know the younger generation, going on day trips and seeing many beautiful places. I always thought I knew a lot about Palestine, but until you see it, and experience it for yourself, only then will you truly know everything about Palestine. I’ve been to many amazing places, but my visit to Palestine beats them all. I will be back, and next time I will bring my younger children with me. Insha’Allah.

“

Ann from Ireland

For me visiting Palestine was a chance to experience what life is really like for the Palestinian people. I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful the country was and how welcoming the people are. The trip provided by VIP gave an excellent insight to the real problem Palestine is facing as well as the experience of a full cultural submersion with the host family.

“

I always said Palestine was my home but now having been there I feel like a part of me is incomplete being back in Zimbabwe. I pray that I can go again and that all of you manage to visit it too. Palestine is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. It is so amazing and blessed. The people are incredible and so is the culture and history.

“

Tanzila from Zimbabwe

“

Palestine is one of the best places I’ve been to, without a doubt. There were so many unique memories and experiences that you will not encounter anywhere else on Earth. This includes the day tours to various cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Hebron as well as staying with a host family and trying traditional Palestinian food. If you have never been to Palestine I would strongly recommend you make it your next destination! You will not be disappointed!

“

Zohaib from Halifax

Zabeer from Birmingham

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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17 Israel bans Islamic Movement in Palestine 53% of Israelis support Israel has banned the Islamic Movement in Palestine accusing them of incitement at the Al-Aqsa mosque during weeks of unrest. “Any person who belongs to this organisation or who provides services to it or who acts within its framework is henceforth committing a criminal offence punishable by a prison sentence,” a government statement said. The Islamic Movement based in northern Israel has been at the forefront of defending the Al-Aqsa mosque,

one of the holiest and sacred sites to Muslims. The Al-Aqsa compound has often been a site of conflict with heavily armed Israeli soldiers storming the compound with ring-wing settlers. Although the government has denied plans to control the area, Israel has restricted access for Muslims to enter the mosque and frequently allows extremist settlers to enter the compound, most of whom want to see the destruction of the mosque.

extrajudicial killings A new poll by the Israel Democracy Institute shows that 53% of Israelis support extrajudicial killings against alleged Palestinian attackers. The study was carried out at the end of October where 600 adults were interviewed. According to the poll, the majority of Israelis (53%) agreed, “any Palestinian who has perpetrat-

ed a terror attack against Jews should be killed on the spot.” Including after the suspect is arrested and even when they “no longer posed a threat”. The results from the poll reflect an extremely hostile climate in the region, it is of grave concern that the majority of Israeli citizens have complete disregard for Palestinian lives.

wing Jewish Home Party. She is known for making extremists statements against Palestinians. The new legislation only targets Palestinians and similar measures are not imposed upon Israelis or illegal settlers. Israel’s culture

of impunity allows soldiers and settlers to get away with crimes including murder. Only 8% of settler attacks are ever investigated and prosecuted, yet the new legislation allows Israel to use disproportionate punitive measures against Palestinians.

Israeli Knesset approves 3-year jail sentence for Palestinian stone-throwers The Israeli Knesset has approved new legislation that will impose harsh penalties for Palestinian stonethrowers. A minimum of 3-years in prison is now the fate of many children who defiantly throw stones against an army which is

equipped with the most advanced military software in the world. A total of 51 Israeli lawyers voted in favour for the law while only 17 voted against it. The law was proposed by Justice minister Ayelet Shaked of the right-

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

18 RECIPE

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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20 SalaahTimes

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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American students face death threats over Palestine protest

Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) at the University of Illinois-Chicago organised a protest as part of international day of action for Palestine on October 14. Over a dozen students participated in

a 6-minute “die-in” silent protest remembering the lives of Palestinians killed during Israel’s brutal onslaught throughout October. Days after the protest SJP received a threatening email message, which

stated: “If there is one more demonstration in the quad from your petty organisation, consider it to be your real bodies falling next time. What you did was downright anti-Semitism. Don’t underestimate the Jewish

presence on campus. #jewhater.” Despite the threats SJP students stated that they will continue organising protesting in the future.

‘Welcome to Palestine’

Passengers on an Iberia flight from Madrid to Tel Aviv were upset when they heard the pilot announcing “welcome to Palestine” as the plane was landing. Passengers said they were

“shocked” and that it was “unacceptable.” One passenger wrote a letter to Iberia airlines complaining about the incident. Since then, Iberia have apologised for any misunderstandings.

There has been outrage against Amazon following the sale of Israeli soldier costumes for Halloween. During the month of October alone, Israeli soldiers use lethal force against Palestinians,

which has resulted in 77 deaths and over 2,000 injuries. Protestors called the sale of Israeli soldier outfits to children as being ‘utterly appalling.’

Amazon sells children’s ‘Israeli soldier’ costumes

Netanyahu blames Palestinians – not Nazis – for Holocaust In an absurd statement which has been widely ridiculed, Benjamin Netanyahu blamed the extermination of millions of Jews during the holocaust on the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin alHusseini, who died in 1974. Netanyahu provided no evidence for this dubious allegation, and there is certainly no historic evidence to substantiate such a claim. This is not the first time Netanyahu has attacked Husseini, despite the mass rejection by historians of any such conspiracy. Netanyahu’s comments serve only to whitewash Hitler and are no doubt intended to justify the continued persecution of Palestinians by the state of Israel. The claim that Palestinians are responsible for the holocaust is nothing but propaganda, highlighting the depths to which this Israeli prime minister is willing to go to continue his own war against a race of people.

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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22 BOYCOTT CAMPAIGNS

BDS victory in Iceland’s capital

The city council in Reykjavík voted by a 9-5 majority banning Israeli products from official purchases as long as Israel continues its occupation in the Palestinian territories. According to Iceland Magazine, the boycott is intended to show the city of Reykjavík’s support for the right of Palestinians inde-

pendence, while condemning “the Israeli policy of apartheid” in the occupied Palestinian territories. Councilwoman Björk Vilhelmsdóttir who proposed the resolution stated, “I believe that the city is sending a clear message that it will not purchase products from Israel while Israel oppresses another people on the basis

By Rana Baker Campaigners at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, are celebrating a big victory for the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement after a referendum to endorse an academic boycott of Israel passed by a landslide majority. The results showed that an overwhelming 73 percent of more than two thousand voters backed the boycott. Those eligible to vote on whether SOAS should cut all ties with Israeli academic institutions included students, faculty and contract staff. Although other university communities, student unions and academic bodies in several countries have

backed the boycott in referendums, the all-inclusive nature of the SOAS vote is precedent setting. Following the announcement of the results, the SOAS “Yes” Campaign issued a statement emphasising that the victory “has demonstrated the popular appeal of BDS as a powerful form of protest and resistance…by voting in favour of the academic boycott, the SOAS community has confirmed its unwavering commitment to freedom, equality and justice for all Palestinians and has reasserted its call for an end to Israeli apartheid, oppressive occupation, and settler-colonialism.” Originally published in: Electronic Intifada

London’s SOAS backs Israel boycott in referendum landslide

of ethnicity and race, and continues having the wall inside Palestine.” This is not the first time we are seeing city councils around the world boycotting commercial goods. Similar resolutions were made during the 1970s and 1980s during the South African apartheid. Boycotting goods has helped to raise aware-

ness and is a stand in solidarity with the native people against brutal apartheid regimes. Reykjavík’s boycott vote is a symbolic victory and shows how the international community are supporting Palestinian rights in the mainstream.

Hundreds unhappy with American singer Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams has been criticised by Palestinian groups for his promotional deal with Woolworths, which stocks Israeli products. Protestors gathered outside GrandWest casino before US singer Pharrell William’s concert in Cape Town, South Africa. Around 500 people demonstrated against William’s support for Israel. The Congress of South African Stu-

dents wrote an open letter to Williams stating, “Woolworths is an apartheidIsrael supporter. By trading with apartheid Israel, Woolworths is raising their capital so that apartheid Israel can continue to buy weapons of mass destruction to threaten, harass and kill even more Palestinians, including many Palestinian children, every day.”

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AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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23 Palestinians reject Boris Johnson visit after ‘foolish’ boycott comments

Boris Johnson has voiced his opposition to the boycott movement during his recent trip to Israel. Responding to the recent pledge for academic boycott by hundreds of university lecturers, he stated “the supporters of this so-called boycott are a bunch of corduroy-jacketed lefty academics.” Johnson also called the BDS movement against Israel

“foolish” as Israel “is the only democracy in the region.” In reality, Israel stands accused of being a brutal occupying power with a merciless army which rules Palestinians using violence and brute force. Extrajudicial executions and Apartheid policies are well documented, making many refute Israel’s claim of being a democracy.

Israeli gunmen disguised as Palestinians executed a young Palestinian man in the al-Ahli hospital in Hebron. This attack has generated shock and fear amongst Palestinians, as nowhere seems to be safe anymore. A dozen Israeli gunmen disguised themselves as Palestinians and invaded the al-Ahli hospital. The gunmen kidnapped 20-yearold Azzam Izzat Shaban al-Shalalda, a patient in the hospital and shot dead his 28-year-old cousin Abdallah Azzam Shaban al-Shalalda. Palestinian witnesses reported that Abdallah was shot in cold blood. “It was around 3am and I was asleep when a large number of undercover soldiers arrived. They put the other patients in the corner and tied my hands with a belt. When Abdallah came out of the bathroom where he was washing his hands in preparation for morning prayers they shot him and left him to bleed on the floor.” Reported, Bilal al-Shalalda, a relative of Abdallah.

Doctors Without Borders have condemned the raid and were “very concerned” about the safety of patients in hospitals. Philip Luther, Middle East program director for Amnesty International said, “The fact that Abdullah al-Shalalda was

#Black&PalestinianLivesMatter

A new solidarity video has been released called ‘when I see them I see us.’ The video includes over 60 leading Black and Palestinian artists and activists from the US to Palestine, including LaurynHill, DAM, Omar Barghouti, Alice Walker, An-

Israeli gunmen execute Palestinian in hospital

gela Davis, Dr. Cornel West and many others. Noura Erakat is a Palestinian assistant professor at George Mason University and human rights attorney. She had the idea for the video during the summer of 2014, when Gaza was being

bombed and protests erupted in Ferguson after the police killing of unarmed teen Michael Brown. According to Erakat “The point is not to compare oppression, Blacks the world over have suffered from a legacy of racism much deeper than

the contemporary Palestinian struggle. The point here is that solidarity is a political decision on how to resist and how to survive in our respected fights for freedom.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is at risk of arrest if he enters Spain. A Spanish judge has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu and six other individuals over the 2010 Gaza flotilla attack. In 2010, six ships were on their way to the Gaza

Strip to provide humanitarian aid and construction materials. 500 passengers were on the boats and the IDF mercilessly stormed and raided the Mavi Marmara ship and killed 10 human rights activists. The other men included in the arrest warrant are for-

mer defence minister Ehud Barak, former foreign minister Avigdor Leiberman, former minister of strategic affairs Moshe Yaalon, former interior minister Eli Yishai, minister without portfolio Benny Begin and vice admiral maron Eliezer, who was in charge of the operation.

Spain ‘issues arrest warrant’ for Benjamin Netanyahu

shot in the head and upper body suggests this was an extrajudicial execution, adding to a disturbing pattern of similar recent incidents by Israeli forces in the West Bank which warrant urgent investigation.”

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015

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24 Palestine vs. Saudi Arabia football match goes ahead

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Palestine is set to host Saudi Arabia in a World Cup qualifier in Al-Ram, after FIFA approved security guarantees from the Palestinian authorities. The two teams were meant to play each other in Ramallah on October 13

but the match was rescheduled after Saudi Arabia’s concern over travelling into Palestine. The former FIFA president Sepp Blatter spoke to the team’s chiefs and the match is set to take place in early November.

UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond spoke at a Conservative Friends of Israel meeting in October emphasising his party’s undeniable support for Israel. During Hammond’s speech he comforted supporters of Israel, reinforcing the government’s “unshakeable commitment” to the county. Hammond stated that “During the Gaza conflict last summer, the prime minster, I, and the chancellor made a clear decision that we would stand behind Israel and defend what Israel was doing… we took a bit of flack for it and we are proud of that, and we will stand behind Is-

rael again when it is defending its right to exist and its right to defend itself against attacks.” These words are deeply shocking for anyone who recalls the horror of Israel’s attack on the Gaza Strip where dozens of war crimes were committed including the attacks on schools, the murder of 4 little boys playing football on a Gaza beach, the shelling of hospitals and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians. 2,200 were killed in the attacks, many of whom were women and children. These are the crimes that our foreign secretary is ‘proud’ to support.

Foreign Secretary ‘proud’ to support Israel

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