CONFLICT OF REASONS & NIGHTMARES OF AGGRESSION

In the next few months it is likely that more action and prayer will be needed to help protect people’s lives. So we will keep giving out more information for Action in future weeks/months. The situation is also in rapid urgent flux. We will also include more information from our partner groups as well as from the SPEAK Network itself. Below is an article exploring wider issues and context of the conflict and suggestions for action from an anonymous SPEAK Network friend in the North London group.

As of early December 2023 there is an estimated 1.87 million of a total population of 2.3 million (footnote 1 &2) Palestinians displaced within the Gaza Strip. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza has issued casualty figures claiming that at least 15,523 Palestinians, including 6,600 children, have been killed by Israeli military action, with a further 41,316 injured since 7 October (footnote 3). It is thought that at least 6,800 people are missing, (footnote 4). Clearly the loss of life has been felt on both sides. The 7 October attack by Hamas inside Israel killed about 1,200 people (footnote 5).

It would be a mistake to approach this article with huge sweeping statements about the situation in Palestine and Israel. It is very difficult to properly gain perspective on what is the absolute truth in all things reported and documented, and it’s hard to know which sources to trust for unbiased information. This is a complex and multifaceted issue with deeply rooted historical, political, and social dimensions. What is very clear is that innocent people have lost their safety, wellbeing, homes, and for many, their lives through the use of force, and this didn’t suddenly begin on 7th October 2023.

UN recorded 2022 as the deadliest year on record for children (footnote 6). in the occupied West Bank but then 2023 numbers outgrew 2022 by September (footnote 7) UN figures show that up to 19 September 2023, 25 Israelis had been killed by Palestinians and 189 Palestinians were killed by Israelis - in both cases, the highest since data collection began in 2008 (footnote 8).

When we start to talk about recent history, we are pushed to look at events over the past few years in the hundred miles or so around Jerusalem, on all political sides. If we reflect on abuses of anyone's rights, on any ‘side’, of the last months, or the last 17 years we could then also look at the past 75 years and the years before that, in different regions of the world. We could also look at present political and commercial motivations worldwide; at whether a people concede to the way they are governed or whether it is imposed on them by force.

When we talk about hostages, we also need to talk about people, including children, held without trial. The United Nations Special Rapporteur has reported over 1 million Palestinian detainees, including tens of thousands of children, since 1967 (footnote 9).

Concerning freedom of movement, the UN has documented 645 Israeli movement obstacles within the West Bank (https://www.ochaopt.org/content/un-has-documented-645-israeli-movement-o...), (footnote 10) with many influential people relaying that the Gaza Strip is an open air prison.
When we talk about the agenda of political parties, we need to look at occupation of lands and sharing of resources. When we talk about lives, we need to remember that all life is sacred and each human life is equal.

Denying any people's access to resources to meet their basic needs, especially when those needs could readily be met, is an incursion upon their human rights. As a machination of war, it might be as effective in a localised region of “smoking out a problem” as it is in creating radicalisation of belief and opinion and more “problems” in surrounding regions and beyond into the future. Question: Where will this end?

Will the removal of Hamas from power bring peace to all Palestine and Israel? Or just Israel? Or to take the proposition of Hamas, for a brief second, would the removal of Israel make everything better for Palestine? Where would the Israeli people go? Do they have a right to exist? Do Palestinian people not have a right to exist? – and so on.
When we look at the weapons being used, we need to look at the lineage of development of weapons and the wars which took place to promote them to the form they hold now, and the profit motive intrinsic therein. We find politicised motivations that lead to fear of the other - over and over - and we find those who profit from this.

To pretend Hamas hasn't created a major threat to Israeli civilian safety is to deny the existence of the people who lost their lives on 7 October, and in prior attacks by the group. To pretend Israel's political and military powers haven't created an environment which would radicalise many people living there, is naive at best and divisive at worst. Division of land is of course in itself divisive. The almost constant push of power plays and corruption throughout documented history is exhausting and seems endless - but not as endless as the needless suffering of innocent people as a result of them.

Appeasing one side of a conflict while denying another is not a route to long term peace and success, because to deny someone’s existence is to infer that they don’t equally exist, when in actual fact they do, and should, simply because they are here. We know that new war crimes don't fix prior war crimes. They might simply displace them for a time, only to escalate in some other way along the line, or as witnessed recently, blow all things into catastrophe.

Can we find peace-inducing narratives that move beyond conflict dispositions, counter-positions, and paradoxical natures of militarised power plays?
Most civilian people have absolutely no interest in being at war / in conflict. People generally want a peaceful life but they also want solutions and removal of oppression and/or blocks to their lives, livelihoods and futures from both within and without where they live. We also know that wherever people are denigrated, maimed, blamed, erased, murdered, denied, or oppressed, trauma is created. We know that anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and cliché-driven racism against any people doesn't create a solution. We also know that we need to learn to share, which may mean not getting everything we want, but we can all get what we need – which is, primarily peace and a future!
Let’s just consider for a minute: we are, as a human species, militarised to a technological capability never before seen, purportedly to 'protect' us from the known and unknown 'threats of each other'. The power to control what happens next falls into the hands of a very few people who stand to gain profit and/or power, whether directly or indirectly, from the production and use of this same militarisation. Whatever the triggers to war, conflict, occupation, invasion, abduction, mass violence and cruelty - without a doubt the largest trigger of all is the very few people and companies who stand to profit from all the madness – and who are rarely in the line of fire themselves.
We need to understand who is funding the militarisation of Hamas, and who has been funding the militarisation of Israel and what they stand to gain from that. There is no clear resolve in one swoop. If you remove the means by which one party profits from another's fatal loss then surely in a commercially psychopathic system, another party would simply take its place. But we have seen time and again in the past century that when awareness and outrage reach a tipping point, situations can change.
Thus, the proposition here is that the only humane way forward is de-escalation, reduction and ceasing of violence and the means by which to promulgate it alongside peace talks, equal rights and reparations of land. So we need to understand who is promoting that within Israel, who is promoting that within Palestinian territories and what do those groups say they need from us in other nations.
The path to peace is challenging; lasting peace requires a genuine commitment from both sides, compromises, and a readiness to make difficult decisions. Promoting peace requires a long-term ongoing commitment and a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved. It is essential to approach the issue with empathy, patience, respect, and a willingness to listen to different perspectives in order to contribute to positive change. Also to foster a genuine desire to support initiatives that promote dialogue, cooperation, and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.

AT A NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVEL

Negotiations and Diplomacy
Engaging in direct negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian representatives is essential. This includes addressing core issues such as borders, settlements, the status of Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, and security arrangements.

Two-State Solution
The internationally endorsed two-state solution envisions the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel, based on the pre-1967 borders, with mutually agreed land swaps. This approach aims to provide self-determination and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Issues With Two State Solution
However there is added complexity in the semantics and some people claim manipulation of the two state solution. We need on-going collective reflection, clarification and public dialogue on both sides of what this solution would actually mean. This is given the way the social structures of nation states are working in this situation. We would need to see radical reform and more accountability for human rights (ending discrimination on racial grounds). However, this comes under much bigger questions of system change for the dominant social structures of our time; the nation state, the corporations and the un-transparent networks that influence both. The practical reality probably demands imperfect immediate solutions and limits to human rights violations while we work towards on-going dialogue and mutual understanding of long term options.

Security Measures and Arrangements
Ensuring the security of both Israelis and Palestinians is crucial for a sustainable peace. This may involve cooperative security arrangements, and measures to prevent violence by any party. Security Arrangements may involve the demilitarization, the prevention / reduction of arms trading, and the implementation of mechanisms to ensure the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.

Economic Development and Reconstruction
Investing in the economic development of the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian territories can help alleviate poverty, create job opportunities, and improve living conditions, supporting trade and infrastructure projects that promote sustainable growth and improve the livelihoods of the population. International support and investment can play a vital role in this regard. Also the lifting of controls imposed against Gaza to develop its own energy infrastructure and trade.

Humanitarian and Civilian Welfare
Addressing the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, including access to basic services, healthcare, and infrastructure, is crucial for stability and peace. Improving the living conditions of the population. International organisations and donors can play a significant role in supporting these efforts.

Confidence-Building Measures
Confidence-building measures can help build trust between the parties, such as prisoner releases, easing of restrictions on movement and access, and promoting people-to-people interactions.

International Support and Mediation
The involvement of international actors, such as the United Nations, regional organisations, and key stakeholders, can provide support, facilitate negotiations, and help mediate the peace process. Engaging in direct dialogue and negotiations between Israeli and Hamas representatives is essential. This can be facilitated by mediators or third-party facilitators who help bridge the gaps and build trust between the parties. International support, involvement, and oversight are essential to facilitate negotiations, monitor ceasefire agreements, and provide security guarantees. Regional and international actors, including neighbouring countries and the United Nations, can play a significant role in supporting the peace process. We acknowledge that Palestinians may find it easier to trust some of their neighbouring countries than the United Nations but we hope the international community can keep listening and providing the most helpful meditation and learn when things haven’t worked in the past.

Mutual Recognition
Governing factions of Israel and Palestine would need to acknowledge each other's existence and right to exist as sovereign entities. This recognition forms a foundation for any meaningful negotiations alongside adoption of peace process and adherence to it.

Ceasefire and De-escalation
A comprehensive and lasting ceasefire is crucial to halt the cycle of violence and create an environment conducive to peace talks. Both sides would need to commit to a cessation of hostilities and work towards de-escalation measures.

Reconciliation and Unity
Achieving internal Palestinian reconciliation between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank, would enhance the prospects for a comprehensive peace agreement. Reconciliation efforts should focus on establishing a unified Palestinian leadership that can negotiate on behalf of all Palestinians.

AT AN INDIVIDUAL OR SMALL GROUP LEVEL

Educate Yourself
Gain a deeper understanding of the historical, political, and social complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Read books, articles, and reports from different perspectives to develop a well-rounded understanding of issues.

Promote Dialogue and Understanding
Engage in respectful discussions with others, both online and offline, to promote dialogue and understanding. Encourage open conversations that consider diverse perspectives and foster empathy towards the experiences and narratives of both Israelis and Palestinians.

Support Peacebuilding Organisations
Contribute to organisations actively engaged in peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives in the region. These organisations work towards fostering understanding, promoting cooperation, and facilitating dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians. You can donate, volunteer, or advocate for their work.

Advocate for Diplomacy and Negotiations
Encourage diplomatic efforts and peaceful negotiations as the means to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Support initiatives that promote dialogue, peace talks, and mediation between the parties involved.

Engage in Grassroots Initiatives
Participate in grassroots initiatives that bring Israelis and Palestinians together for joint projects, cultural exchanges, and cooperation. These initiatives build bridges, foster mutual understanding, and promote peaceful coexistence.

Support Humanitarian Aid
Contribute to organisations providing humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the region. This can include supporting access to healthcare, education, and basic necessities.

Advocate for Humanitarian Access
Raise your voice to ensure humanitarian access and the protection of civilians in conflict-affected areas. Advocate for the removal of barriers and restrictions that impede the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need.

Advocate for Human Rights
Speak out against human rights abuses and violations, regardless of the party responsible. Advocate for the protection and promotion of human rights, equality, and justice for all individuals affected by the conflict.

Engage in Political Advocacy
Contact your elected representatives and express your concerns regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Encourage them to prioritise peaceful resolutions, support diplomatic efforts, and advocate for policies that promote dialogue and a just and lasting solution.

Engage in Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue
Foster connections and dialogue between religious and cultural communities from both sides of the conflict. This can help build bridges, promote understanding, and foster a sense of shared humanity.

Support Grassroots Peace Activists
Seek out and support grassroots peace activists and organisations working at the community level to promote peace and reconciliation. These individuals and groups often play a crucial role in bridging divides and fostering dialogue at the grassroots level.

Promote Youth Engagement
Support initiatives that empower and engage young people. Youth-led projects focused on peace education, leadership development, and dialogue can help shape a future generation committed to peaceful coexistence.

Support Economic Cooperation
Encourage and support economic initiatives that foster cooperation and mutual benefit between Israeli and Palestinian businesses. Supporting joint ventures, trade partnerships, and economic development projects can contribute to stability and positive interdependence.

Support Track II Diplomacy
Track II diplomacy refers to unofficial, non-governmental efforts to facilitate dialogue and build relationships between Israeli and Palestinian leaders, experts, and influential individuals. Support organisations and initiatives that engage in these diplomatic efforts outside of formal government channels.

Stay Engaged Politically
Stay informed about political developments related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and engage with your elected representatives. Voice your support for policies that promote peace, international law, human rights, and a just and lasting solution to the conflict.

Raise Awareness
Utilise various platforms, such as social media, blogs, or public speaking, to raise awareness about the importance of peaceful resolutions and things people can participate in with a view to balance and cooperation.

Vigils for peace

Example- https://togetherforhumanity.co.uk/- A coalition of charities, community organisations and faith groups formed as a growing movement standing against rising antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate amidst the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. Creating space for people to grieve for all civilians killed in the war — Israeli or Palestinian — and to share a vision of hope that people of different backgrounds and faiths can live in peace alongside each other, here in the UK and around the world.

They offer an info pack for anyone wanting to set up a peace vigil.

Support peace and justice groups working in Israel

Breaking the Silence is an organisation of veteran soldiers who have served in the Israeli military since the start of the Second Intifada and have taken it upon themselves to expose the public to the reality of everyday life in the Occupied Territories. They seek to stimulate public debate about the price paid for a reality in which young soldiers face a civilian population on a daily basis, and are engaged in the control of that population’s everyday life. Their work aims to bring an end to the occupation.

Breaking the Silence provided the following list of signatories to their call for an end to the most recent conflict. Please note that the author is not personally aware of all work / potential biases of any of the groups but trusts the authentic desire for peace from Breaking The Silence’s work and the humanitarian principles they are aiming towards. https://www.breakingthesilence.org.il/inside/a-joint-statement/

B’Tselem https://www.btselem.org/
Mothers Against Violence
Itach Ma’aki – Women Lawyers for Social Justice
Amnesty International Israel
BIMKOM – Planners for Planning Rights
Gisha
The Association for Civil Rights in Israel
Public Committee Against Torture in Israel
Parents Against Child Detention
Hamoked – Center for the Defence of the Individual
Zazim – Community Action
Haqel – In Defense of Human Rights
Yesh Din
Combatants for Peace
Mehazkim
Machsom Watch
Women Wage Peace
Akevot Institute for Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Research
Standing Together
Ir Amim
Emek Shaveh
The Parents Circle-Families Forum
Rabbis for Human Rights
Physicians for Human Rights–Israel
Breaking the Silence
Torat Tzedek
A Land for All – Two States One Homeland
Academia for Equality
Your Neighbor As Yourself
Kerem Navot
Other Voice

Also worth Checking out Na’amod:

www.naamod.org.uk.

Na’amod is a movement of British Jews against occupation, organised a powerful and emotional Jewish-led rally of 800 people calling for a ceasefire.
They gathered to demand, as they have on numerous occasions over the past six weeks, an immediate ceasefire, a hostage exchange and an end to the siege on Gaza.
The group is growing louder and stronger as they continue to make their voices heard. And by showing up, they made a statement that there are Jews standing together against antisemitism, Islamophobia and the brazen attempts to divide minority communities.

Support Palestinian civil society organisations

The author has not vetted the following organisations for political biases or for profiling each individual organisation of all past behaviours, but trusts the emphasis of the work towards justice forwarded by Al Haq as the supplying organisation of the list. Without question we need to bear in mind the atmosphere and environment in which Palestinian led groups are operating, including the challenges which they regularly face.

Al-Haq Law in the Service of Man (Al-Haq),
Addameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association (Addameer),
Al Mezan Centre for Human Rights (Al Mezan),
Al-Quds University ‘Community Action Center’ (CAC),
Jerusalem Legal Aid and Human Rights Center (JLAC),
Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH)
Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR)
Civic Coalition for Palestinian Rights in Jerusalem (CCPRJ)

PALESTINE: REPARATIONS FOR A DISPLACED PEOPLE

The question of reparations for the people of Palestine is a highly complex and politically sensitive issue. It is important to acknowledge that any discussion of reparations should take into account diverse perspectives and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While I can provide a general overview, it is crucial to note that specific details and negotiations would need to be determined through diplomatic and political processes. Here are some potential aspects to consider:

Land Restitution: One aspect of reparations could involve addressing the issue of land and property that has been confiscated or displaced during the conflict. This could involve returning lands to their original owners or providing compensation for lost property.

Compensation for Losses: Reparations may involve providing financial compensation to individuals or communities who have suffered losses, including property, livelihoods, and personal injuries, as a result of the conflict.

Infrastructure Development: Investing in the development of infrastructure, including housing, healthcare facilities, schools, and utilities, can help rebuild communities and improve living conditions for the people of Palestine.

Economic Development and Job Creation: Supporting economic development programmes, creating opportunities for employment, and promoting sustainable economic growth can contribute to the reconstruction and prosperity of the Palestinian economy.

Access to Resources and Services: Ensuring equitable access to resources, including water, electricity, and healthcare, is essential for the well-being and development of the Palestinian population.

Support for Refugees: Addressing the situation of Palestinian refugees and providing support for their rights, including the right of return or compensation for their displacement, is a significant aspect that would require careful consideration.

Reconciliation and Transitional Justice: Reparations efforts should be accompanied by efforts to foster reconciliation, promote truth and accountability, and address historical grievances. Establishing mechanisms for transitional justice, truth commissions, or reconciliation initiatives can contribute to healing and building trust between communities.

It is important to note that the specifics of reparations, including the scope, implementation, and funding mechanisms, would need to be determined through negotiations and agreements between the parties involved. The goal should be to address the historical injustices and work towards a just and sustainable resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ultimately, finding a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict requires political will, dialogue, and negotiation among all stakeholders involved, with the aim of achieving a just and equitable resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.

Get and Stay Educated

The Israeli-Hamas conflict is a highly contentious and complex issue, and it can be challenging to find sources of information that are entirely unbiased. It is important to consult a variety of reputable sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation and consider different perspectives. Here are some sources that are generally regarded as credible and provide valuable insights:

International News Agencies: News agencies such as Reuters and Associated Press (AP) often have extensive coverage of the Israeli-Hamas conflict. These agencies strive to report news in a balanced and objective manner, although biases can still exist in individual reports or perspectives presented.

Human Rights Organisations: Organisations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch monitor human rights violations and document incidents in the Israeli-Hamas conflict. While these organisations may have their own perspectives and biases, they provide valuable reports and analysis based on their investigations.

United Nations (UN) Reports: The United Nations, through various bodies such as the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the UN Human Rights Council, releases reports on the Israeli-Hamas conflict. These reports can provide insights into the situation on the ground, although they may also attract criticism and controversy due to political dynamics within the UN.

Academic Institutions and Think Tanks: Academic institutions and independent think tanks often produce research papers and analysis on the Israeli-Hamas conflict. It is important to consider the reputation and expertise of these institutions and ensure that their work is grounded in rigorous research and analysis.

Activist sources in support of Palestine may be biased towards Palestine but often include information that simply won’t be covered elsewhere. For example:

Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) - https://caat.org.uk/data/countries/israel/
B’Tselem - https://www.btselem.org/download/201406_47_year_long_temporary_occupatio...
War On Want - https://waronwant.org/about/importance-of-language#palestine
Adalah call for the dissolution of discriminatory laws - https://www.adalah.org/en/content/view/7771

Engaging with a diverse range of perspectives is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of conflict. Reading articles and opinions from various sources, including Israeli and Palestinian media outlets, can provide insights into different narratives and viewpoints. It is important to critically evaluate information from any source, considering potential biases and verifying facts through cross-referencing multiple sources. Combining information from different perspectives can help develop a more nuanced understanding of a crucial topic. This in turn can lead to solutions-based thinking which allows for all the parties to a conflict.

Call for de-armament/ suspension of arms trading

Campaign Against Arms Trade
Israel’s military sector is made up of over 200 public and private companies. It is dominated by Elbit Systems and three state-owned companies: Israel Aircraft Industries, Israel Military Industries and Rafael.
https://caat.org.uk/news/statement-on-uk-arms-exports-to-israel
https://caat.org.uk/app/uploads/2023/11/Fact-sheet-re-Gaza-2023-11-14.pdf
https://caat.org.uk/data/countries/israel/israels-arms-industry-its-link...

Human Rights Watch:
Allies of Israel and backers of Palestinian armed groups should suspend the transfer of arms to the warring parties in Israel and Gaza, given the real risk that they will be used to commit grave abuses. Providing weapons that knowingly and significantly would contribute to unlawful attacks can make those providing them complicit in war crimes. The United Kingdom has licensed the sale of £442 million GBP worth of arms ($539 million) to Israeli forces since 2015, including aircraft, bombs, and ammunition. Canada exported $47 million CDN ($33 million) in 2021 and 2022. Germany issued licenses for €862 million ($916 million) in arms sales to Israel between 2015 and 2019.
06/11/23 https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/11/06/suspend-arms-israel-palestinian-arme...

Boycott Divest Sanctions

Given that reports suggest Hamas funding comes from Iran, Qatar, Turkey and support from Algeria, Iran, Sudan and Tunisia , we could boycott all of these. Major supporters, investors and allies of Israel include United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Canada, Greece, Poland, Spain, Australia, France, Norway, Austria, and even the European Union as a collective entity.

To fully boycott all possible associations could prove a near impossible, if not extremely complex, task for the average modern person.

The following information is focussed on financiers, fossil fuels and military of Israel, given that the current impact to civilian life in Palestine is largely brought upon them by Israeli military action.

Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) is a Palestinian-led movement promoting boycotts, divestments, and economic sanctions against Israel. Its objective is to pressure Israel to meet what the BDS movement describes as Israel's obligations under international law, defined as withdrawal from the occupied territories, removal of the separation barrier in the West Bank, full equality for Arab-Palestinian citizens of Israel, and "respecting, protecting, and promoting the rights of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes and properties". The movement is organised and coordinated by the Palestinian BDS National Committee. BDS is modelled after the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Its proponents compare the Palestinians' plight to that of apartheid-era black South Africans.

The following extend beyond the list provided by BDS movement website:
Suggested companies to boycott include:
Barclays, HSBC, HP, JBC, BP, Puma
Israel offshore gas contract UK based awardees: Cairn, Pharos, Dana Petroleum, British Petroleum (BP)

https://bdsmovement.net/
https://bdsmovement.net/pacbi
https://palestinecampaign.org/hundreds-protest-at-barclays-links-to-isra...
https://palestinecampaign.org/campaigns/stop-arming-israel-3/
https://waronwant.org/news-analysis/barclays-dont-bank-apartheid
https://waronwant.org/sites/default/files/Final%20Web%20version%20Deadly...
https://palestinecampaign.org/hsbc-stop-arming-israel-take-action/

Support humanitarian aid to Gaza

Egyptian Red Crescent Society (ERCS) is the only organisation with access to the North Sinai, including the Rafah border crossing. It therefore coordinates all incoming humanitarian aid. The ERCS works with the United Nations, ICRC and PRCS to prioritise and provide aid to Gaza through the Rafah crossing.
Palestine Red Crescent Society - https://www.palestinercs.org/en
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
Doctors Without Borders
Mercy Without Limits
Medical Aid For Palestinians
Palestine Children's Relief Fund
Unicef
URNWA: The United Nations Relief and Workers Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East

Finally we asked a Jewish social justice lawyer who is the granddaughter of holocaust survivors from Nazi Germany for her best advice on supporting peace at this extremely challenging time. Her answer is as follows:

Attend the marches in support of a ceasefire
Wear the watermelon as a symbol of Palestinian resistance
Learn the Dabke
Seek out Palestinian owned business, shops, restaurants, enterprises, and support them
Know that supporting Palestine’s right to exist is not intrinsically anti-Semitic!
Contact your MP about calling for a ceasefire
Fly a Doves of Peace flag
Cover your car / house / raincoat with peace, love, CND, flower stickers

Footnotes and Sources

1/(https://app.powerbi.com/view?r=eyJrIjoiNzBlMWZkMzYtY2ZiYy00OTljLTk5NDMtO...),
2/https://www.ft.com/content/7b618433-ba5f-4e92-a3e0-d5d41d6d17f8
3/ (https://www.ochaopt.org/ - live UN figures so numbers may increase / https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2023/10/9/israel-hamas-war-in-ma... alternate source of live figures related to Hamas gov figures
4/ https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/11/27/we-want-permanent-ceasefir...) (https://peoplesdispatch.org/2023/11/27/media-outlets-call-for-an-end-to-...)(
5/1,200 people (https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/10/israel-palestinian-armed-...).
6/(https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/08/28/west-bank-spike-israeli-killings-pal...) (https://www.savethechildren.net/news/2022-becomes-deadliest-year-palesti...
7/https://reliefweb.int/report/occupied-palestinian-territory/2023-marks-d...
8/ https://news.sky.com/story/israel-hamas-war-how-attacks-by-settlers-on-p...
9/https://www.ohchr.org/en/news/2023/07/special-rapporteur-says-israels-un...
10/(https://www.ochaopt.org/content/un-has-documented-645-israeli-movement-o...),