Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Huwaida Arraf: Israel's policy has nothing to do with security...

DN! Israel Threatens Free Gaza Aid Ship in International Waters:


This news clip is a bit outdated since Israel has already attacked the ship, taken it and its crew and people aboard as hostages. See news below.

"Israel Threatens Free Gaza Aid Ship in International Waters

Meanwhile, a ship trying to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza from Cyprus has been threatened by Israeli violence in international waters. The sailing is the Free Gaza movements first since it aborted an attempt in January after the Israeli navy threatened to shoot the civilian passengers on board. That sailing had come just weeks after an Israeli navy vessel deliberately rammed another of its boats, almost forcing it to sink. Before it left Cyprus on Monday, Free Gaza movement founder Huwaida Arraf said her group is undeterred. Huwaida Arraf: We do not constitute any threat to Israels security, and that we just want to get to the people of Gaza. And so, if they attack us..."



ISRAEL ATTACKS JUSTICE BOAT; KIDNAPS HUMAN RIGHTS WORKERS; CONFISCATES MEDICINE, TOYS AND OLIVE TREES

from FreeGaza2 by Free Gaza Team

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
30 June 2009

For more information contact:
Greta Berlin (English)
tel: +357 99 081 767 / friends@freegaza.org

Caoimhe Butterly (Arabic/English/Spanish):
tel: +357 99 077 820 / sahara78@hotmail.co.uk
www.FreeGaza.org

[23 miles off the coast of Gaza, 15:30pm] - Today Israeli Occupation Forces attacked and boarded the Free Gaza Movement boat, the SPIRIT OF HUMANITY, abducting 21 human rights workers from 11 countries, including Noble laureate Mairead Maguire and former U.S. Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney (see below for a complete list of passengers). The passengers and crew are being forcibly dragged toward Israel.

"This is an outrageous violation of international law against us. Our boat was not in Israeli waters, and we were on a human rights mission to the Gaza Strip," said Cynthia McKinney, a former U.S. Congresswoman and presidential candidate. "President Obama just told Israel to let in humanitarian and reconstruction supplies, and that's exactly what we tried to do. We're asking the international community to demand our release so we can resume our journey."

According to an International Committee of the Red Cross report released yesterday, the Palestinians living in Gaza are "trapped in despair." Thousands of Gazans whose homes were destroyed earlier during Israel's December/January massacre are still without shelter despite pledges of almost $4.5 billion in aid, because Israel refuses to allow cement and other building material into the Gaza Strip. The report also notes that hospitals are struggling to meet the needs of their patients due to Israel's disruption of medical supplies.

"The aid we were carrying is a symbol of hope for the people of Gaza, hope that the sea route would open for them, and they would be able to transport their own materials to begin to reconstruct the schools, hospitals and thousands of homes destroyed during the onslaught of "Cast Lead". Our mission is a gesture to the people of Gaza that we stand by them and that they are not alone" said fellow passenger Mairead Maguire, winner of a Noble Peace Prize for her work in Northern Ireland.

Just before being kidnapped by Israel, Huwaida Arraf, Free Gaza Movement chairperson and delegation co-coordinator on this voyage, stated that: "No one could possibly believe that our small boat constitutes any sort of threat to Israel. We carry medical and reconstruction supplies, and children's toys. Our passengers include a Nobel peace prize laureate and a former U.S. congressperson. Our boat was searched and received a security clearance by Cypriot Port Authorities before we departed, and at no time did we ever approach Israeli waters."

Arraf continued, "Israel's deliberate and premeditated attack on our unarmed boat is a clear violation of international law and we demand our immediate and unconditional release."
###
WHAT YOU CAN DO!

CONTACT the Israeli Ministry of Justice
tel: +972 2646 6666 or +972 2646 6340
fax: +972 2646 6357

CONTACT the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs
tel: +972 2530 3111
fax: +972 2530 3367

CONTACT Mark Regev in the Prime Minister's office at:
tel: +972 5 0620 3264 or +972 2670 5354
mark.regev@it.pmo.gov.il

CONTACT the International Committee of the Red Cross to ask for their assistance in establishing the wellbeing of the kidnapped human rights workers and help in securing their immediate release!

Red Cross Israel
tel: +972 3524 5286
fax: +972 3527 0370
tel_aviv.tel@icrc.org

Red Cross Switzerland:
tel: +41 22 730 3443
fax: +41 22 734 8280

Red Cross USA:
tel: +1 212 599 6021
fax: +1 212 599 6009
###

Kidnapped Passengers from the Spirit of Humanity include:

Khalad Abdelkader, Bahrain
Khalad is an engineer representing the Islamic Charitable Association of Bahrain.

Othman Abufalah, Jordan
Othman is a world-renowned journalist with al-Jazeera TV.

Khaled Al-Shenoo, Bahrain
Khaled is a lecturer with the University of Bahrain.

Mansour Al-Abi, Yemen
Mansour is a cameraman with Al-Jazeera TV.

Fatima Al-Attawi, Bahrain
Fatima is a relief worker and community activist from Bahrain.

Juhaina Alqaed, Bahrain
Juhaina is a journalist & human rights activist.

Huwaida Arraf, US
Huwaida is the Chair of the Free Gaza Movement and delegation co-coordinator for this voyage.

Ishmahil Blagrove, UK
Ishmahil is a Jamaican-born journalist, documentary film maker and founder of the Rice & Peas film production company. His documentaries focus on international struggles for social justice.

Kaltham Ghloom, Bahrain
Kaltham is a community activist.

Derek Graham, Ireland
Derek Graham is an electrician, Free Gaza organizer, and first mate aboard the Spirit of Humanity.

Alex Harrison, UK
Alex is a solidarity worker from Britain. She is traveling to Gaza to do long-term human rights monitoring.

Denis Healey, UK
Denis is Captain of the Spirit of Humanity. This will be his fifth voyage to Gaza.

Fathi Jaouadi, UK
Fathi is a British journalist, Free Gaza organizer, and delegation co-coordinator for this voyage.

Mairead Maguire, Ireland
Mairead is a Nobel laureate and renowned peace activist.

Lubna Masarwa, Palestine/Israel
Lubna is a Palestinian human rights activist and Free Gaza organizer.

Theresa McDermott, Scotland
Theresa is a solidarity worker from Scotland. She is traveling to Gaza to do long-term human rights monitoring.

Cynthia McKinney, US
Cynthia McKinney is an outspoken advocate for human rights and social justice issues, as well as a former U.S. congressperson and presidential candidate.

Adnan Mormesh, UK
Adnan is a solidarity worker from Britain. He is traveling to Gaza to do long-term human rights monitoring.

Adam Qvist, Denmark
Adam is a solidarity worker from Denmark. He is traveling to Gaza to do human rights monitoring.

Adam Shapiro, US
Adam is an American documentary film maker and human rights activist.

Kathy Sheetz, US
Kathy is a nurse and film maker, traveling to Gaza to do human rights monitoring.
###

Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

DN! Israel Annexes New West Bank Land, Announces New Settlement Construction

DN! Israel Annexes New West Bank Land, Announces New Settlement Construction:

"Ahead of US Meeting, Israel Annexes New West Bank Land, Announces New Settlement Construction

The Israeli government has announced plans to expropriate a new swath of the occupied West Bank. Israel says it will take fifty-four square miles of Palestinian land, including shoreline near the Dead Sea. Palestinians will have forty-five days to contest the seizure in an Israeli court. A Palestinian cabinet minister called the move Israels single largest land takeover since it occupied the West Bank and Gaza in the 1967 war. The Israeli government, meanwhile, has authorized the construction of new homes in the West Bank settlement of Adam. The building plans are the latest in Israels rejection of President Obamas call to stop settlement expansion. They come on the eve of Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Baraks visit to Washington for talks with US officials. Obama has so far refused to apply any meaningful pressure on Israel, including the suspension of billions of dollars in annual US aid."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Inside Story - Collateral damage? - 30 June 09

Inside Story - Collateral damage? - 30 June 09:
See HRW report below
"Human rights watch group says Israeli spy drones killed Palestinian civilians during Gaza war."



Israel: Misuse of Drones Killed Civilians in Gaza
Israel Should Release Camera Footage of Deadly Attacks
June 30, 2009

(Jerusalem) - Israeli attacks with guided missiles fired from aerial drones killed civilians during the recent Gaza fighting in violation of the laws of war, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. The attacks with one of the most precise weapons in Israel's arsenal killed civilians who were not taking part in hostilities and were far from any fighting.

The 39-page report, "Precisely Wrong: Gaza Civilians Killed by Israeli Drone-Launched Missiles," details six incidents resulting in 29 civilian deaths, among them eight children. Human Rights Watch found that Israeli forces failed to take all feasible precautions to verify that these targets were combatants, as required by the laws of war, or that they failed to distinguish between combatants and civilians. Israeli and Palestinian human rights groups have reported a total of 42 drone attacks that killed civilians, 87 in all, during the fighting in December 2008 and January 2009.

"Drone operators can clearly see their targets on the ground and also divert their missiles after launch," said Marc Garlasco, senior military analyst at Human Rights Watch and co-author of the report. "Given these capabilities, Israel needs to explain why these civilian deaths took place."

"Precisely Wrong" is based on field research in Gaza, where Human Rights Watch researchers interviewed victims and witnesses, examined attack sites, collected missile debris for testing, and reviewed medical records. The Israel Defense Forces turned down repeated Human Rights Watch requests for a meeting and did not respond to questions submitted in writing.

Military experts have extolled armed drones, or Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles, and their precision-guided missiles as weapons that can minimize civilian casualties. Their use is rapidly expanding - for example by the United States in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

"When used properly, drones and their precision missiles can help a military minimize civilian casualties," Garlasco said. "But drones are only as good at sparing civilians as the people who command and operate them."

In the six cases documented in the report, Human Rights Watch found no evidence that Palestinian fighters were present in the immediate area of the attack at the time. None of the civilians who were killed were moving quickly or fleeing the area, so the drone operators would have had time to determine whether they were observing civilians or combatants, and to hold fire if they were unable to tell the difference.

In three of the cases, drones fired missiles at children playing on rooftops in residential neighborhoods, far from any ground fighting at the time. Human Rights Watch found no evidence to suggest that the children were acting as spotters, relaying Israeli troop locations, or trying to launch a rocket from the roof.

On December 27, 2008, the first day of the Israeli offensive called "Operation Cast Lead," a drone-launched missile hit a group of university students as they waited for a bus on a crowded residential street in central Gaza City, killing 12 civilians. The Israeli military has failed to explain why it targeted the group on a crowded downtown street with no known military activity in the area at the time.

On December 29, the Israeli military struck a truck that it said was transporting Grad rockets, killing nine civilians. The military released video footage of the attack to support its case, but the video raises serious doubts that the target constituted a military objective - doubts that should have guided the drone operator to hold fire. The alleged rockets, the military later admitted, proved to be oxygen canisters.

The technological capabilities of drones and drone-launched missiles make these violations even more egregious, Human Rights Watch said. Drones carry an array of advanced sensors, often combining radars, electro-optical cameras, infrared cameras, and lasers. These sensors can provide a clear image in real time of individuals on the ground during day and night, with the ability to distinguish between children and adults.

One Israeli drone operator who flew missions in Gaza during the recent fighting told an Israeli military journal that he was able to detect clothing colors, a large radio, and a weapon.

The missile launched from a drone carries its own cameras that allow the operator to observe the target from the moment of firing to impact. If doubts arise about a target, the drone operator can redirect the weapon elsewhere.

The drones deployed by the Israeli military - the Israeli-produced Hermes and Heron drones - have video-recording devices so that everything viewed by the operator is recorded. Every Israeli drone missile strike during Operation Cast Lead would therefore be registered on video.

The Israeli government is obligated under international law to investigate serious violations of the laws of war. Israeli military or civilian personnel found responsible for committing or ordering unlawful drone attacks should be disciplined or prosecuted as appropriate, Human Rights Watch said. Individuals who have committed serious violations of the laws of war with criminal intent - that is, intentionally or recklessly - are responsible for war crimes.

Israel has failed to conduct credible investigations into its actions during Operation Cast Lead. On April 22, the military released the results of an internal investigation, which concluded that its forces "operated in accordance with international law" throughout the fighting and that "a very small number" of "unavoidable" incidents occurred due to "intelligence or operational errors."

A fact-finding team from the United Nations Human Rights Council headed by the respected international jurist Richard Goldstone is currently investigating alleged violations of the laws of war by both Israel and Hamas. Israel has said it will not cooperate with the investigation because the Human Rights Council is biased against Israel. Hamas has said it will cooperate.

Human Rights Watch called on Israel and Hamas to cooperate fully with the Goldstone investigation. Regarding drone-launched missiles, Israel should provide the recorded video footage and other documentation of its attacks in which civilians were wounded or killed.


Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israel Defies the US on Settlement Expansion

Israel has approved the building of 50 new houses:

Just hours before Israeli Aggression Minister, Ehud Barak left for the US, his ministry said it had approved construction of 50 new settlement units in an Occupied West Bank settlement as part of a plan for 1,450 such units. an expansion that defies a US call for a settlement freeze.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

UN human rights probe wraps up public hearings in Gaza

UN human rights probe wraps up public hearings in Gaza:

UN News Centre

"29 June 2009 – The United Nations fact-finding mission on the recent Gaza conflict, mandated by the Human Rights Council, today completed its first round of public hearings in Gaza City during which it heard testimony from witnesses, victims and experts.

“As fellow human beings we would like to put on record how deeply moved we were by many of the accounts of profound suffering and grief,” said Justice Richard Goldstone, who leads the four-member team of investigators examining allegations of human rights violations during the fighting between 27 December and 18 January.

The team heard accounts from people who had been badly injured in attacks and from victims who had lost many members of their families, as well as from people who had lost their livelihoods, according to a news release issued today.

In addition, experts gave testimonies on the psycho-social effects, in particular on health, children and education, and on women.

Justice Goldstone noted that appearing at the public hearings had not been without cost to the victims. “Every re-telling of their ordeals and tragedies carries a heavy emotional toll as well as personal security risk. We are fully aware of this.

“We express our deep gratitude for their willingness to share their painful testimonies with us as we endeavour to identify the truth of allegations of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law,” he said.

The mission also wanted to hold hearings in the West Bank and in southern Israel, where the population had been on the receiving end of rocket attacks launched from Gaza, but that has not been possible since the Israeli Government is so far not cooperating with the mission.

Therefore, additional public hearings will be held in Geneva, on 6 and 7 July, to hear from victims from Israel and the West Bank.

Justice Goldstone noted that he and his team will consider all information received by the mission, both during the public hearings and as part of the continuing investigations, before compiling its report in August."
End.

here is a Press TV report from Gaza
The U-N has held a public hearing in the Gaza Strip:

Witnesses described how their relatives were killed or wounded in Israeli raids. PressTV's Ashraf Shannon reports from Gaza.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Monday, June 29, 2009

29th June 2009 Video Free Gaza SPECIAL EDITION DEPARTING

29th June 2009 Video Free Gaza SPECIAL EDITION DEPARTING:

"The Spirit of Humanity left Cyprus on the 29th June at 7:30am. Will arrive in Gaza on 30th afternoon.
You can see their latest position by clicking on the following link :
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&h...,33.8294&ll=33.3474,33.8294&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

update at 8.30pm 29th June:

From aboard the Spirit, Free Gaza organizer Lubna Masarwa stated that,
"We're intent and unworried - we're sailing on. We will go to Gaza, in
solidarity with the people. We want to break the Israeli siege in a
practical way, and not just with words. Our message to Gaza - from all the
Palestinians in '48 and in the West Bank, and from all the good people in
the world is - You are not alone!"

Images by Greta Berlin
the song "Free Gaza" by Anis Hamadeh
"


This was Posted at the Free Gaza Movement site a few hours ago:
URGENT ALERT - Israeli Navy surrounding SPIRIT and threatening to open fire

by Free Gaza Team
At 1:40 am [local time], the Israeli Navy surrounded the SPIRIT while it is on its way to the Gaza Strip. We got a call from the boat saying that they were being threatened, told to turn back or they would be fired on.

Huwaida Arraf, one of the delegation leaders, was on the phone with the Israeli gunboats, and we could hear her saying, "You Cannot Open Fire on Unarmed Civilians" several times. At this writing, they are surrounded by several ships shining bright lights into the SPIRIT.

CALL or FAX Major Liebovitz from the Israeli Navy at:
Tel + 972 5 781 86248 or +972 3737 7777 or +972 3737 6242
Fax +972 3737 6123 or +972 3737 7175

CALL Mark Regev in the Prime Minister's office at:
Tel +972 2670 5354 or +972 5 0620 3264
mark.regev@it.pmo.gov.il

CALL Shlomo Dror in the Ministry of Defence at:
Tel +972 3697 5339 or +972 50629 8148
mediasar@mod.gov.il .


Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Naomi Klein in Bil'in - 26-6-09

Naomi Klein in Bil'in - 26-6-09:

"Prior to the demonstration a press conference took place, where a representative of the village's popular committee, a member of the Palestinian Boycott National Committee and world renowned Canadian journalist and author Naomi Klein spoke of the local struggle, of the village's new court case in Canada against Canadian companies building the new neighborhoods on Bil'in land, on the boycott, and of the inability to detach art and politics."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israel approves 50 settler homes hours before Barak leaves for Washington | Video | Reuters.com

Israel approves 50 settler homes | Video | Reuters.com:

"Jun 29 - Israel approves construction plans for 50 new Jewish homes in the occupied West Bank, defying U.S. demands that it stop all settlement activity there.

Helen Long reports."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Inside Story- Russia's military deal with Israel - 28 June09

Inside Story- Russia's military deal with Israel - 28 June09:

"As Russia will soon be acquiring advanced Israeli military technology, a question is raised: How strong is Russia? And what implications, if any, would a Russian-Israeli military cooperation have on Moscow's role in the Middle East?"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

FGM: Leaving today

Leaving today:

"(LARNACA, 29 June 2009) - The Free Gaza boat the 'Spirit of Humanity' departed Cyprus at 7:30am on Monday, 29 July. Twenty-one human rights and solidarity workers representing eleven different countries were aboard.

The passengers include Nobel laureate Mairead Maguire and former U.S. congresswoman Cynthia McKinney. The ship also carries three tons of medical aid, children's toys, and rehabilitation and reconstruction kits for twenty family homes.

For more information, please contact:
Greta Berlin (English/French) or Caoimhe Butterly (Arabic/English/Spanish)
tel: +357 99 081 767 / email: friends@freegaza.org"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Gaza war victims testify to UN panel - 28 June 09

Gaza war victims testify to UN panel - 28 June 09:

"Though it is a story he has told several times before, Wael Samouni does not mind retelling what he says Israeli soldiers did to his family during the Gaza war.

To highlight his story, Samouni is prepared to present photos of the 27 members of his family who were killed in the war to a UN hearing set up to investigate allegations of human rights violations during the conflict.

Al Jazeera's Sherine Tadros reports from the hearing in Gaza City."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Let the Farmers Work their Land! - Saffa June 27, 2009

Saffa June 27, 2009 Mohammed Prt 1:

26 Activists Detained, Scores Beaten as Soldiers Prevent Farmers From Accessing Their Land in Saffa
from Palestine Solidarity Project by PSP

June 27, 2009–As has been done since the beginning of April when the Israeli military began actively preventing members of the Soleiby family of Beit Ommar from accessing their agricultural land near Bat ‘Ayn settlement with a series of “Closed military zone” orders, Israeli and international activists joined the family in an attempt to pick fruit on their land. This week, however, the military went to extreme measures to prevent the activists and farmers from getting anywhere near their land.

In the last four weeks, 13 Israelis and 3 Internationals have been arrested while accompanying the farmers to their land, though settlers who have attacked the farmers and activists, throwing stones at them, have been allowed to enter and leave the area without any intervention by the military or police. This week 35 Israelis and 10 Internationals went along with scores of women and men from three extended families towards their land. Just past the houses, however, nearly 20 Israeli soldiers confronted the group, insisting that if the Palestinians had their ID’s they would have been allowed to work if there were no Israeli or Internationals present. This was grounds, therefore, for them to viciously attack the group. For over an hour, the soldiers, soon supported by dozens of border police and observed from high-ranking military officials, beat and arrested 14 Israeli and 2 international activists.

Soldiers seriously injured a reuters photographer, an Israeli activist was taken to a hospital and treated for a potential broken hand that was injured from a soldier twisting it behind her back. An Palestinian coordinator from PSP was also severely injured in the leg. Even with Palestinian medics present to evacuate him, soldiers first attempted to arrest him, placing him in the back of a military jeep. Eventually, they were convinced to turn him over to the ambulance, when he was taken to a hospital in Hebron.

The group was then pushed back into the village, and when remaining Israeli activists, in their rented vans, attempted to leave the village, the ID’s of the drivers were taken and the entire group, 10 additional people, were also arrested. One group of Israelis were attacked by the border police on the way to the police station, beaten with batons while handcuffed in the back of a jeep.

After being taken to the police station in Gush Etzion, only 1 of the 26 detainees was interrogated, and after a few hours the entire group was released without charge, but with a fair amount of bruises.



Israeli soldiers gang up on one of the Palestinian farmers and break his leg.




Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israel: Rise of the Right - 28 June 09 - (4 parts)

Israel: Rise of the Right - 28 June 09 - Part 1`:

"Ilan Mizrahi has spent 16 years photographing and filming right wing Israeli settlers in the West Bank city of Hebron. His film, Israel: Rise of the Right, looks at the followers of Rabbi Meir Kahane, an American-born rabbi and politician who proposed the mass expulsion of Arabs [Palestinians] from Israel before he was assassinated in 1990."

Part 1/4


Part 2/4


Part 3/4


Part 4/4

Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Bil'in 26 6 09 the 227th demo against the wall

Bil'in 26 6 09 the 227th demo against the wall:

"Some 250 Palestinians, Israelis and Internationals demonstrated today in the West Bank village of Bil'in against the Apartheid Wall and the settlements built on Palestinian land.
demonstrators marched towards the illegal fences build on the village's agricultural lands, and were met with an unprovoked tear-gas attack by the Israeli Occupation Forces. The demonstration went on for about an hour, facing levels of violence"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Free Gaza Boats still in Cyprus, determined to sail to Gaza - 27th June 2009

27th June Video Free Gaza SPECIAL EDITION:

"Boats still in Cyprus, determined to sail to Gaza.
Video by Adam Shapiro"

Related News:
Free Gaza boat convoy delayed in Cyprus
Saturday June 27, 2009 04:44 by Saed Bannoura - IMEMC News

The Free Gaza Movement was ready to set sail yesterday from Larnaca Cyprus on their eighth mission, bringing Human rights workers, dignitaries and construction materials to help rebuild the devastated region of Gaza, but their ships were not given permission to leave due to concerns about their welfare and safety.

The group stated on their website that “Our friends in Cyprus tell us that the voyage to Gaza is too dangerous, and they are worried we will be harmed at sea.”

The most recent post on their web site states “Monday, maybe Tuesday, we have satisfied all requests. No reason to be held. Most passengers staying. Permission for 20. We will go.”

Two of their boats, the Free Gaza and the Spirit of Humanity are standing ready proudly displaying flags from sixteen nations who are determined not to forget the horror of an occupation by Israel that has lasted over forty years.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Egypt opens Rafah crossing for 3 days

Egypt opens Rafah crossing for 3 days:

"Egypt has decided to re-open the Rafah border crossing temporarily for 3 days as of Saturday for stranded Palestinians at both sides to travel across the border.
Some 5,000 Palestinians have signed up to leave the Gaza Strip via the Rafah border terminal over the next three days.
Among those who have been given permission to pass through are students and Palestinians need medical treatment
On the Egyptian side, 700 people and 10 trucks with medical aid from Arab countries were waiting to enter."

Related News:
Haneyya asks Egypt to permanently open Rafah crossing
[ 27/06/2009 - 10:54 AM ]
Source: PIC

GAZA, (PIC)-- PA premier Ismail Haneyya on Saturday asked Egypt to completely and permanently open the Rafah border crossing between Gaza Strip and Egypt to alleviate the suffering of the Gaza inhabitants.

Haneyya was inspecting the terminal's traffic after the interior ministry announced that it would be open for passengers for three days starting Saturday.

The premier thanked the terminal's employees and security men for their efforts in preserving security and in facilitating the travel of the citizens.

The ministry declared earlier today that two busses loaded with passengers mostly sick citizens traveling for treatment abroad, students and stranded citizens had passed through to the Egyptian side of the borders on Saturday morning.

It added that the travel procedures were proceeding normally, hoping that all those who registered their names with the ministry would be able to travel.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Israeli incursion in Faraheen (Part 1: Invading Gaza Strip)

Israeli incursion in Faraheen (Part 1: Invading Gaza Strip):

http://farmingunderfire.blo...

Israeli Tanks and Jeeps accompanied by four bulldozers razed farmland, knocking down trees and clearing plants (destroying top soil in the process) in Al Faraheen area, Gaza Strip.



Israeli incursion in Faraheen (Part 2: exchange of fire)



Israeli incursion in Faraheen (Part 3: the second incursion)


Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israeli Occupation Forces Attack & Arrest Activists in the West Bank

IDF Clash with Israelis in the Village of Safa 27 June 2009:

"West Bank village of Safa. Several people were injured, one with a broken leg, and 30 Israelis arrested Israeli soldiers blocked peace activists accompanying Palestinians to agricultural fields. For more info ibnezra.wordpress.com"

Related News:
Israeli forces arrest Israeli and international activists in Safa
Posted on: June 27, 2009
Source: ISM
For Immediate Release

27 June 2009: Israeli forces arrest 24 solidarity activists and 2 hired Palestinian Israeli drivers in the West Bank village of Saffa.

At 7.30am, 35 Israeli and 10 international solidarity activists joined 3 Palestinian families from Beit Ummar to harvest their land. As the group tried to go down to their lands, 50 soldiers and border policemen stopped them.

Before reaching the land, Israeli forces arrested 10 Israeli and international activists, under the premise that Saffa was under a Closed Military Zone*. The army was aggressive towards the group and used violence against them.

After pushing the group, border policemen arrested another 9 activists.

Yousef Abu Maria from the Palestine Solidarity Project, had his leg broken from the use of excessive force. Israeli soldiers tried to arrest him, but the solidarity activists negotiated for the soldiers to release him and allow him to be taken by an ambulance from the Palestinian Red Crescent. He is currently being treated at a Hebron hospital.

A female Israeli activist from Tayyoush was also injured and is currently at an Israeli hospital seeking treatment for a potentially broken hand.

As 2 cars with hired drivers were leaving the area with other activists, Israeli forces stopped them and arrested 5 more activists and the 2 Palestinian Israeli drivers.

The arrested were taken to the Israeli prison in the illegal settlement of Gush Etzion.

The activists are members from Palestine Solidarity Project, Tayyoush, Anarchists Against the Wall, and the International Solidarity Movement. They have been accompanying Palestinian farmers to document and deter violence from Israeli forces as the farmers harvest their land.

Last Saturday, 8 Israeli activists were arrested as they accompanied Palestinian farmers.

*Israeli forces have declared the area in Saffa a Closed Military Zone (CMZ), in direct violation of an Israeli Supreme Court decision. The Israeli Supreme Court determined that Closed Military Zones cannot be issued on Palestinian agricultural land, cutting off Palestinian farmers, or prolonged periods of time. However, Israeli forces have been regularly declaring a Closed Military Zone on farm land in Saffa since 2 April 2009.

UPDATE: 1pm, 27 June 2009, All the activists and drivers have been released.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

CodePink delegation hears testimony of 15-year-old boy shot by Israeli Army

A 15 years old boy "Salah Abu Musallam" who was wounded by Israeli Offensive Forces:

"Salah Abu Musallam is one of the Palestinians who had been injured by Israeli soldiers in Gaza Strip (Janurary 2009).
CODEPINK delegation to Gaza met Salah at Almaghazi Refugee Camp." CodePink



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Friday, June 26, 2009

Palestinians in Gaza mark International Day against Torture

Gazans mark International Day against Torture - 26th June:

"Press TV Gaza"

Related news:
Report finds Israel still torturing Palestinians
Mel Frykberg, The Electronic Intifada, 26 June 2009

RAMALLAH, occupied West Bank (IPS) - The Public Committee Against Torture in Israel has accused the Israeli security forces of deliberately shackling Palestinian prisoners in a painful and dangerous manner, amounting to a form of torture. The report, "Shackling as a Form of Torture and Abuse," based on the evidence of over 500 prisoners, was released in advance of the UN International Day in Support of Torture Victims Friday, 26 June. (more)



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israeli Military also attacked the Bil'in Weekly Demo

bilin demo 27 6 9 by haitham al katib:

The Israeli military attacks Bil'in weekly protest
Source: IMEMC
Friday June 26, 2009 16:47

Dozens suffered from gas inhalation when Israeli troops attacked the weekly protest in Bil'in village near the central West Bank city of Ramallah on Friday.

International and Israeli supporters joined the villagers of Bil'in and marched from the village center after the Friday midday prayers.

Joining the protest on Friday was the the Canadian writer and Journalist Naomi Klein.

The protesters demanded the halt of the Israeli illegal settlements and the construction of the wall.

As the protesters arrived at the wall, Israeli troops stationed at its gate fired a barrage of sound bombs, tear gas and rubber-coated bullets.

Dozens were treated for the effects of tear gas inhalation. This week the Israeli military attacked the village on a number of occasions and kidnapped six people among them two children.

Also read:
In Bil'in, Author Naomi Klein Calls for Boycott of Israel
by Agence France Presse
Published on Friday, June 26, 2009

Bestselling author Naomi Klein on Friday took her call for a boycott of Israel to the occupied West Bank village of Bilin, where she witnessed Israeli forces clashing with protesters. "It's a boycott of Israeli institutions, it's a boycott of the Israeli economy," the Canadian writer told journalists as she joined a weekly demonstration against Israel's controversial separation wall.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israeli soldiers attack the Ni'lin weekly Protest 26.6.2009

Ni'ilin 26.6.2009:

Protest at Ni'ilin Friday June 26 2009 against theft of their land and against the apartheid wall.

Related News:
Scores treated for the effects of tear gas inhalation as Israeli soldiers attack the Nil'in's weekly
Source: IMEMC
Date: Friday June 26, 2009 16:36

Israeli soldiers attacked Palestinian villagers along with their international and Israeli peace supporters during the weekly non-violent protest against the wall in Ni'lin village, west of the central West Bank city of Ramallah, on Friday.

Villagers and their supporters held the midday prayers near the construction site of the Israeli Wall, then they marched towards the bulldozers building the wall.

As soon as the crowd reached the location and started to dismantle part of the wall, troops attacked them with tear gas. Scores were treated for the effects of tear gas inhalation.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

ICRC - Gaza: paying the price

Gaza: paying the price:

"ICRC - from the field. Civilians are counting the cost of the 3 week conflict in January 2009, which claimed more than a thousand lives and dealt a heavy blow to the economy of Gaza, a territory already shattered by decades of conflict and deprivation. The international community pledged billions of dollars in aid, but restrictions on essential raw materials going into Gaza will have to be lifted if Palestinians are to rebuild their lives."

*ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross) is an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of war and other situations of violence.

also see the ICRC report: Gaza: 1.5 million people trapped in despair



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Thursday, June 25, 2009

25th June 2009 Video Free Gaza Special Edition Departing to Gaza

25th June 2009 Video Free Gaza Special Edition Departing to Gaza:


"Boats have not left today due to Israeli pressure on the Free Gaza Movement. We try again tomorrow.
More on public advisory on www.freegaza.org
(25 June 2009, LARNACA) - This is not the statement we in the Free Gaza Movement intended to release today. We had hoped to announce that our two ships, the Free Gaza and the Spirit of Humanity, departed from Larnaca Port on a 30-hour voyage to besieged Gaza, carrying human rights activists who have travelled to Cyprus from all across the world for this journey, 3 tons of medical supplies, and 15 tons of badly needed concrete and reconstruction supplies.
(...)

Instead, our ships were not given permission to leave today due to concerns about our welfare and safety. Our friends in Cyprus tell us that the voyage to Gaza is too dangerous, and they are worried we will be harmed at sea.
(...)
The risks we take on these trips are tiny compared to the risks imposed every day upon the people of Gaza.
The purpose of nonviolent direct action and civil resistance is to take risks - to put ourselves "in the way" of injustice. We take these risks well aware of what the possible consequences may be. We do so because the consequences of doing nothing are so much worse. Anytime we allow ourselves to be bullied, every time we pass by an evil and ignore it - we lower our standards and allow our world to be made that much harsher and unjust for us all.
In addition to the concerns expressed by our Cypriot friends today, the American consulate in Nicosia warned us not to go to Gaza, stating that:
"...[T]he Israeli Foreign Ministry informed U.S. officials at the American Embassy in Tel Aviv that Israel still considers Gaza an area of conflict and that any Free Gaza boats attempting to sail to the Gaza Strip will "not be permitted" to reach its destination."
Former U.S. Congresswoman & presidential candidate Cynthia McKinney responded to this warning by pointing out that, "The White House says that cement and medical supplies should get into Gaza and that's exactly what we are attempting to take to Gaza."
"Instead of quoting Israel policy to us," McKinney continued, "...the U.S. should send a message to Israel reiterating the reported White House position that the blockade of Gaza should be eased, that medical supplies and building materials, including cement, should be allowed in. The Free Gaza boats should be allowed to reach their destination, traveling from Cyprus territorial waters, through international waters, and straight into Gaza territorial waters."
"The State Department has chosen to advise us to take the Israeli notification seriously. Our question is, Can we take President Obama seriously?' Will he stand by his own words and allow us to provide relief for Gaza or will he back down?"
Tomorrow we will deliver a waiver, signed by all going to Gaza, that we absolve Cyprus of all responsibility for our safety. We would like to tell our friends here in Cyprus that though we understand and appreciate their concerns, we will not back down to Israel's threats and intimidation.

This video has been realized while all the above was going on.
Footage by : Alex (Free Gaza)
Footage by : Dianne Lee
Footage by Amed Badwan
Footage by : Intenational Solidarity Movement activists in Gaza
Photo by : Sameh A. Habeeb
Music by : Plastilina Luminosa"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

DN! Arab League: Peace Offer Conditioned on Israeli Withdrawal

DN! Arab League: Peace Offer Conditioned on Israeli Withdrawal:

"Arab League: Peace Offer Conditioned on Israeli Withdrawal

Arab foreign ministers have rejected President Obamas call to normalize their relations with Israel even though Israel has refused to stop expanding Israeli settlements. A seven-year-old Arab League peace plan offers Israel a comprehensive peace deal in return for its complete withdrawal from the Occupied Territories and the creation of a Palestinian state there. Despite his pledge to seek peace, President Obama has refused to fully endorse the Arab offer—only its provision regarding Arab recognition of Israel. On Wednesday, Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa said the settlements remain the key issue. Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa: Regarding the settlements, we disagree 100 percent with whomever claims that settlements do not undermine peace. Settlements destroy peace. Settlements prevent negotiations. Settlements stop peace efforts if they are underway."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

UN Fact-finding Mission: Public hearings to begin in Gaza

UN Fact-finding Mission: Public hearings to begin in Gaza:

"United Nations, New York, 25 June 2009 - Noon briefing by the spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Members of the independent fact-finding mission set up by the United Nations Human Rights Council will hold public hearings in Gaza next week as part of its investigations into violations committed during the recent conflict in the Strip, allowing those affected to tell their stories to the world.

The hearings will enable victims from all sides in the conflict and experts on its consequences and impacts to speak directly to the international community of their experiences, according to a statement issued in Geneva.

The public hearings will be held on 28 and 29 June, 2009 in Gaza City. Further hearings will be held on 6 and 7 July, 2009 in Geneva."

News story:
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp...




Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Locked Out on Capitol Hill

Locked Out on Capitol Hill:

"The US Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation went to Capitol Hill to see the Appropriations Committee 'mark-up' the FY2010 budget, which includes a recommended $2.775 billion in military aid to Israel. See just how transparent Congress operates in this video."

For further info, please read: Willy Wonka Goes to Washington at the US Campaign to end the Israeli Occupation blog



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

More night-raids in Bil'in by the Israeli Occupation Forces 25 6 09

bilin 25 6 9 by haitham al katib:

To show their contempt during the raid, the Israeli Occupation Forces tore up the memorial billboard picture of Bassam Abu Rahmeh.
In April, peaceful protester, Bassam Abu Rahmeh died after he was hit in the chest by a teargas canister, fired directly at him and at close range, by an Israeli soldier.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

CodePink action - Ahava does not mean love, Ahava means hate!

Ahava Action Rae And Medea:

Ahava does not mean love, Ahava means hate! Ahava does not mean beauty, Ahava is ugly!
Boycott Ahava, a product made in an illegal Israeli settlement with stolen Palestinian resources. For More Info visit www.stolenbeauty.org



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

MK Said Naffaa on Israel's Right-Wing Government and the Prospect for Peace

VIDEO: Israel's Right-Wing Government and the Prospect for Peace:

[The Palestine Center, Washington, DC]

Said Naffa is a member of the Knesset, Israel's parliamentary body. He is a member of National Democratic Assembly."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Holy Land Grab - 24 June 09 - (2 Parts)

Holy Land Grab - 24 June 09 - Pt 1:

"Behind Israel's plan to use eviction and archaeology to weld Jerusalem together."
Comment: Please add the following at the end of the above description: "for dominance of one ethnicity over another". Yes, you got it. For apartheid purposes!

Part 1


Part 2


Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Nahr al-Bared Camp: Two Years under Siege + a Sip of Coffee - (4 Parts)

Nahr al-Bared Camp: Two Years under Siege:

"Two years after the outbreak of the war in Nahr al-Bared, the camp's fate remains unclear. The reconstruction of the official camp might start soon, but the army keeps its tight grip on the camp. Several checkpoints, barbed wire and military posts cut Nahr al-Bared off from its surroundings.

Nahr al-Bared Camp used to be a thriving marketplace in the northern Lebanese region of Akkar and about half its costumers were Lebanese. During the war, the Lebanese army has not only defeated the militant group Fatah al-Islam, but also completely destroyed the refugee camp. Its businesses were looted, smashed and burnt, even after the war had ended. The camp's once flourishing economy was physically eliminated.

Two years later, about half the camp's population has returned to its adjacent area. Hundreds of businesses have re-opened, but economic recovery is seriously hampered by the tight siege imposed by the Lebanese army. Thus, suspicions have risen that the war's actual target wasn't Fatah al-Islam, but Nahr al-Bared's economic life.

In this 10-minute film, the co-owner of an ice cream factory, the president of the local Trader's Committee and the Imam of the al-Quds Mosque speak out on the siege and its economic consequences.

The film can be downloaded here:
http://a-films.blogspot.com/2009/06/2...

Please visit our website for background information and further videos on Nahr al-Bared:
http://a-films.blogspot.com/search/la..."



Nahr al-Bared Camp: A Sip of Coffee (Part 1):

"In May 2007, the battle between Fatah al-Islam and the Lebanese army broke out in Nahr al-Bared Refugee Camp in northern Lebanon. Amidst heavy fighting, the Lebanese army had systematically destroyed the entire camp by September 2007. Two years later, nearly all the rubble has been cleared from the 'old camp', the core of Nahr al-Bared. However, though the displaced residents grow increasingly desperate, reconstruction has yet to begin.

Not only does the Lebanese army keep people away from the old camp, but it also controls movement in and out of the surrounding area known as the 'new camp. Anyone entering the new camp requires a valid permit issued by the army. Refugees and NGOs working to revitalize the once robust economy of the camp face crippling isolation, as the marketplace of Nahr al-Bared is totally cut off from the surrounding villages. A flailing economy and soaring unemployment are only a few of the consequences of the destruction and ongoing siege of the camp.

This 26-minute film follows a father and his son as they attempt to deal with their unemployment. The two have been living in metal barracks for more than a year, waiting to return to their camp. By documenting issues of reconstruction, temporary housing, economy, unemployment and despair, the film touches on the daily experience of life in Nahr al-Bared Camp.

The film can be downloaded here: http://a-films.blogspot.com/2009/06/1...

Please visit our website for background information and further videos on Nahr al-Bared: http://a-films.blogspot.com
"

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3


Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Green Eenergy hope in Ramallah - 24 Jun 09

Ramallah pilot raises green energy hope - 24 Jun 09:

"While the world is still powered by oil and gas, the race is on to find alternative energy sources.

In the Middle East, many countries are pursuing nuclear options, which is both expensive and controversial.

Al Jazeeza's Nour Odeh reports from the West Bank where one young entrepreneur has shown that there's a natural alternative - using energy from the earth."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israel demolishing Palestinians' homes - 24 Jun 09

Israel demolishing Palestinians' homes - 24 Jun 09:

"In the area surrounding the Old City of East Jerusalem, Palestinians are being handed eviction notices on a daily basis.

Nowhere is this more evident than in al-Bustan neighbourhood in the village of Silwan.

Al Jazeera's Jacky Rowland meets people whose homes are threatened with demolition."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Doctors Demand WMA Head Resign as Ethics Chief over Israeli Torture

Doctors Demand WMA Head Resign Over Torture:

"More than 700 doctors from 43 countries have written a letter of protest to their governing ethical body, the World Medical Association, alleging that its recently appointed Israeli president has turned a blind eye to the involvement of medical staff in torture, and calling for his removal."

See Related News Item
700 doctors demand Israeli head of WMA resign over torture
Source: The Guardian
Date: 21 June 2009



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israel Keeps Mossad Chief for Iran Shadow War

Israel Keeps Mossad Chief for Iran Shadow War:

"Reuters reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has extended the tenure of the Mossad spy agency chief to an eighth year, a testament to the spymaster's perceived success in waging shadow wars against Iran and its allies. Meir Dagan, a former commando and retired general, took over Mossad in 2002 with what security sources described as a mandate to monitor and sabotage the Iranian nuclear program ahead of any decision by Israel to launch full-scale preemptive strikes."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Bikini-clad CODEPINKers Protest Tel Aviv Beach Cover-Up of Gaza Attacks

Bikini-clad CODEPINKers Protest Tel Aviv Beach Cover-Up of Gaza Attacks:

"CODEPINK activists demonstrated inside the staged Israeli beach event in Central Park, NYC, on Sunday, June 21. For more info visit www.stolenbeauty.org"

Educating the Public
Source: www.stolenbeauty.org

On the sands of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism's Tel Aviv Beach, bikini-clad CODEPINK activists covered themselves in mud to expose Israel's dirty occupation of Palestine. The beach event aims to boost U.S. tourism to Israel and clean up Israel’s image just months after its devastating 22-day assault on Gaza that killed more than 1,400 Gazans, injured 5,300, destroyed approximately 4,000 homes and displaced 50,000 people into temporary U.N. shelters.

The bikini-clad CODEPINK women distributed info exposing Israeli Dead Sea cosmetics company AHAVA, which uses mud illegally extracted from and packaged in the Occupied Territories. "Despite its name, (Ahava means "love" in Hebrew), there is nothing loving about a company that profits from stolen resources and oppressed people,” says CODEPINK coodinator Rae Abileah who organized a protest of AHAVA in Tel Aviv last week.“We will paint ourselves with mud to expose the dirty practices of AHAVA and the Israeli government.”

For more Info:
AHAVA: Stolen Beauty



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Aid Agencies Slam Gaza Blockade

Aid Agencies Slam Gaza Blockade:

"Forty international aid agencies and NGOs have released a joint statement condemning Israel's blockade of Gaza, to mark the second anniversary of the coastal territory being hermetically sealed off from the outside world."



PRESS RELEASE
17 June 2009

Statement by Humanitarian Organisations, NGOs and UN Organisations
On the Second Anniversary of the Gaza Blockade


Jerusalem, 17 June, 2009: We, United Nations and non-governmental humanitarian organisations, express deepening concern over Israel’s continued blockade of the Gaza Strip which has now been in force for two years.

These indiscriminate sanctions are affecting the entire 1.5 million population of Gaza and ordinary women, children and the elderly are the first victims.

The amount of goods allowed into Gaza under the blockade is one quarter of the pre- blockade flow. Eight out of every ten truckloads contains food but even that is restricted to a mere 18 food items. Seedlings and calves are not allowed so Gaza's farmers cannot make up the nutritional shortfall. Even clothes and shoes, toys and school books are routinely prohibited.

Furthermore the suffocation of Gaza's economy has led to unprecedented unemployment and poverty rates and almost total aid dependency. While Gazans are being kept alive through humanitarian aid, ordinary civilians have lost all quality of life as they fight to survive.

The consequences of Israel's recent military operation remain widespread as early recovery materials have been prevented from entering Gaza. Thousands of people are living with holes in their walls, broken windows and no running water.

We call for free and uninhibited access for all humanitarian assistance in accordance with the international agreements and in accordance with universally recognised international human rights and humanitarian law standards. We also call for a return to normalized trade to enable the poverty and unemployment rates to decrease.

The blockade of the Gaza Strip is creating an atmosphere of deprivation in Gaza that can only deepen the sense of hopelessness and despair among people. The people of Gaza need to be shown an alternative of hope and dignity. Allowing human development and prosperity to take hold is an essential first step towards the establishment of lasting peace.

Signed By:

Action Against Hunger
Acted
Acsur-Las Segovias
American Friends of UNRWA
American Near East Refugee Aid
Asamblea de Cooperacion Por la Paz
Austcare
Biladi
CARE International West Bank and Gaza.
Centre on Housing Rights and Evictions
DanChurchAid
Defense for Children International
Enfants du Monde-Droits de l’Homme
International Relief Fund for the Afflicted and Needy - Canada
Japan International Volunteer Centre
Life Source
Medecins du Monde France
Medecins du Monde Spain
Medecins du Monde Switzerland
Medical Aid for Palestinians
Movement for Peace
Mujeres por la Paz y Acción Solidaria de Palestina
Norwegian People’s Aid
Norwegian Refugee Council
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Oxfam International
Paz Ahora
Peace and Solidarity Haydée Santamaría, Cultural Asociation
Premiere Urgence
Relief International
Spanish Committee of UNHCR
Spanish Committee of UNRWA
Swedish Organization for Individual Relief
Terre des Hommes Italy
United Nations Development Fund for Women
United Nations Relief and Works Agency
War Child Holland
World Vision International.

Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Gaza Reality - Living in graves

Living in graves:

"www.anera.org continues 'Gaza Reality' series. A close-up look at life in Gaza today. ANERA delivers donated medicine and medical supplies, shoes for children, fortified milk and biscuits for pre-schoolers and much more to help people struggling to survive in Gaza."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Gaza Reality - Living in tents again

Living in tents again:

"www.anera.org continues 'Gaza Reality' series. A close-up look at life in Gaza today. Families in Gaza need our help. ANERA delivers donated medicine, medical supplies, shoes for children..."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Fatenah', Palestine's first 3D animated feature film

Animation in Palestine:

"'Fatenah', Palestine's first 3D animated feature film, is inspired by a true story about a Palestinian woman living in the Gaza Strip who discovers a lump in her breast.

Director, Ahmad Habash and Producer, Saed Andoni, talk about the craft of making an animated feature, challenges of filmmaking in Palestine, and their motivations in making 'Fatenah'.

July 1, 2009
Local premiere for the animation film 'Fatenah'
7 - 9 pm, Al-Kasaba theater and cinematheque"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Jewish settlers 'want all of Jerusalem' - 24 Jun 09

Jewish settlers 'want all of Jerusalem' - 24 Jun 09:

"Israeli settlements have been springing up across occupied East Jerusalem as Palestinian houses are being torn down.

A multi-million dollar plan is underway to brand the historic basin around the Old City as Jewish.

In the second part of our series on Israel's takeover of East Jerusalem, Al Jazeera's Jacky Rowland joins a settler on his mission to seize land."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Disabled Palestinian man builds his own car | Video | Reuters.com

Disabled man builds his own car | Video | Reuters.com:

"June 22. - A disabled Palestinian man who couldn't afford the cost of transport by taxis has made his own electric car.

Joanna Partridge, Reuters

SOUNDBITE:
# Mahmoud Mujahed, Palestinian inventor"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Inside Story - Palestinian homes for sale - 23 June 09

Inside Story - Palestinian homes for sale - 23 June 09:

"Will Palestinians driven out in 1948 ever have the right to return to their homes?"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Druze in Israel Protest Against Discrimination

Israel and its minorities:

[LinkTV/Mosaic]
"Druze in Israel Protest Against Discrimination
Al Jazeera TV, Qatar

Political Prisoners' Families Complain of Mistreatement
Palestine TV, Ramallah"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

"Natural growth" of Israeli settlements

"Natural growth" of Israeli settlements:

"More at http://therealnews.com/t/in...

Israeli settlement construction, including 'natural growth' hampers advancement of two-state solution"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

What are these Israeli bulldozers doing?

Middle East Blog - Bulldozers:

"Sky News' Dominic Waghorn in East Jerusalem investigates Israeli bulldozers."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Israeli Occupation Forces invade Bil'in, kidnap civilians - 23 6 09

bilin 23 6 9:

Related News:
The Israeli military invades Bil'in village and kidnap four civilians
Source: IMEMC
Tuesday June 23, 2009 15:19

Israeli troops kidnapped two children and two adults during an invasion targeting the village of Bil'in in the central West Bank on Monday night and Tuesday morning.

Local sources said that Israeli troops stormed the village on Tuesday at dawn searched a number of homes then kidnapped Khalil Yassen, 15, and Kamel Al Kahteeb. Both children were taken to unknown detention camps, their families reported.

Earlier on Monday night, two men, Hissen Mansour and Kifah Mansour, were going from their land located behind the wall that cuts the village off from its lands. Troops stopped the two men and kidnapped them, local sources reported.

Bil'in has been the scene of weekly nonviolent protests against the Israeli wall for over four years. The Israeli court gave the famers the right to reach their lands behind the wall and ordered the army to remove the wall. The Israeli army still refuses to dismantle the Wall.



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Protesters crash the Tel Aviv Beach celebration of murder and ethnic cleansing in NY Central Park

Protest Tel Aviv Beach celebration of murder and ethnic cleansing in New Yorks Central Park!:

"CODEPINK crashes Israel Beach party in Central Park--Stop Ahava Dead Sea products campaign"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Safa: Another Day in the Occupied Territories

Safa: Another Day in the Occupied Territories:

"Today in the village of Safa near Hebron in the southern West Bank. Settlers from the nearby Bat Ayin settlement pelted us with stones and the IDF arrested 7 activists. Please see ibnezra.wordpress.com for more information"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Palestinians fight illegal Israeli construction - 22 June 09

Palestinians fight illegal Israeli construction - 22 June 09:

"Though international law considers Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land illegal, construction companies continue to cash in on unprecedented settlement expansion.

Now, some Palestinians in the West Bank town of Bil'in are taking matters into their own hands, by going to court to sue international construction companies.

Al Jazeera's Nour Odeh reports."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Monday, June 22, 2009

Interview with activist & folksinger David Rovics + his song "Palestine"

Interview with David Rovics #1:

Last Video is his song Palestine

"The Struggle interviews activist & folksinger David Rovics in April 2009. Hear him play his new song 'Pirates of Somalia' and discussing his career and visits to Gaza and the West Bank. He is an advocate of artists uploading their music on the internet for free.

Visit his website @ http://www.davidrovics.com"

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3


David Rovics song Palestine lyrics and video below

"lyrics of The song Palestine:David Rovics 2003
All Rights Reserved
Author: David Rovics

My daddy was an Arab from Beersheva
A situation so unkind
My momma was a refugee from Ramallah
Had to leave her land behind
I grew up in this refugee camp
In this sunwelcome land
In this little parcel of Lebanon
We were dealt a losing hand

Then one day the soldiers came
A tired old refrain
I'll try to tell you what happened next
But there's no way to explain
The soldiers raped my mother
Then they killed her dead
Along with the rest of the Shatila Camp
While I hid beneath my bed

(Chorus)
Now I'm a-wanderin', I'm a-wanderin'
No place to call my home
Palestine, Palestine
All around the world I roam

My aunt came over from Jordan
Brought me there to live
And together we've moved to half the world
Oh for peace what I would give
In Beirut, Greece and New York town
I've watched the world churn
But my home is Palestine
Someday I will return

(Chorus)

This is my situation here
In the Heart of the empire
That sends the 'copters and bulldozers
That turned Ramallah into a funeral pyre
Well you've heard my story
And time will not allow
Soon my visa will expire
What will you do now

(Chorus)
-------
Created November, 2002
Copyright David Rovics 2002, all rights reserved"



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog

Saffa Grape Vines Destroyed by Settlers June 22, 2009

Saffa Grape Vines Destroyed by Settlers June 22, 2009:

"Saffa--Hebron District. Settlers from the right-wing settlement Bat 'Ain destroyed more than 125 grapevines and fruit trees belonging to Hamad Soleiby, a resident of Beit Ommar. International and Israeli solidarity activists had been accompanying Hamad and his family to pick grape leaves for the past two months in the face of growing settler attacks and military violence. The trees represent a huge portion of Soleiby's livelihood."



Palestine Video - A Palestine Vlog