Israeli conscientious objectors come to Oxford - Nov 2nd
(posted by richarddirecttv) | 25.10.2004 11:46 | Oxford
who were recently released from Israeli military prison after serving
more than 18 months each, have agreed to come and speak to an Oxford
audience. They will speak at the Chapel, Mansfield College, on Tuesday,
November 2nd, at 20:00.
The event is open to all members of the public.
Here is some background information on Matan and Adam and their
comrades.
Matan Kaminer and Adam Maor two young Israeli conscientious objectors,
resisted conscription to the Israeli Army because of their opposition
to Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories. They were
court-martialled with three others (Shimri Tzameret, Hagai Matar and
Noam Bahat). The 5 CO's have recently been released from prison. After
serving hundreds of days, Matan served a total of 646 days and Adam
served 553 days, all were subsequently discharged from the Israel army.
Though Adam's and Matan's detention cannot be compared to the detention of thousands of Palestinians who may be held without trial, Matan and Adam reflect an important voice in the Israeli society. Young Israelis are increasingly refusing to serve the Israeli
army and the occupation. Recently, many Israelis linking with Palestinians in a non-violent struggle against the Separation Wall and the demolitions.
In their testimony to the court Adam and Matan said:
'Terror affects our lives in every possible domain and causes the
deterioration of the Israeli society. The continuation and maintenance
of the Occupation are the continuation and maintenance of terror. Time and again I have
been deceived by Israeli leaders who promised us peace and did not keep
their word'. (Adam)
The right of every Palestinian, as a human being, to democracy, is
violated daily by Israeli military rule. The more brutal and oppressive
an occupation becomes, the more resistance it will meet. Occupation
turns people into things. Occupation is fertile soil for atrocity.
(Matan)
More on the 5 recently released, and to read their full trial
testimonies visit
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All are welcome to attend.
Elena
(posted by richarddirecttv)