For Benjamin Netanyahu

AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa

Boycott Campaigns BDS victory in Iceland’s capital AQSAFriends of Al-Aqsa newspaperNEWS since 1997 Page 22

Israeli soldiers attack Egypt floods Gaza’s tunnels Palestinian rights supporter journalists in the West Bank 2 with seawater 3 wins leadership of UK party 5 Tensions mount in Jerusalem Fears of third intifada in Palestine

In recent weeks, ten- excessive force against sions have been rapidly Palestinians, including a increasing in Jerusalem, the number of extrajudicial West Bank and Gaza. Vio- killings. During October, lent confrontations at Al- over 60 Palestinians were Aqsa, sparked by the daily killed and over 2,000 were trespass by extremist Is- injured by live ammuni- raeli settlers accompanied tion and rubber-coated by fully armed soldiers and steel bullets. Many of those police have created an ex- killed posed no threat, and tremely volatile situation. much of the injured were During Eid al-Adha, Pal- protesting against Israeli estinians were restricted violations. from worshipping at Al- Social media has been Aqsa, and Israel has been pivotal in capturing what is limiting access to Muslim happening on the ground. worshippers allowing only Graphic images and vid- males over 50 and women eos have been circulating to enter the mosque. online, which have left Numerous scenes of con- many wondering if we are frontations and attacks on witnessing the 3rd intifada Palestinians outside the unfold, with Palestinians mosque walls have been no longer able to suppress posted up on social media. themselves against contin- Since the end of Sep- ued attack. tember, Israel has used

News News Special Feature Recipe Culture Travel to Palestine Harsher punishments Netanyahu’s visit to Attacks at the Sacred Manakish Palestinian Museum Volunteer in Palestine for Palestinian stone the UK sparks Al-Aqsa to open in the West throwers protests Bank by 2016

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NEW FRIENDS OF AL-AQSA WEBSITE COMING SOON AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 2 INSIDE PALESTINE Israeli soldiers attacks journalists in the West Bank

New video footage shot ian journalist, was forcefully Furik near Nablus to cover by Palmedia shows Israe- thrown to the ground and a demonstration after the li soldiers attacking two stabbed in the side with a funeral of a Palestinian who Agence France-Presse (AFP) weapon, according to AFP. had died after being shot by journalists. The soldiers Bernardi suffered bruised Israeli security forces. were seen smashing and de- ribs and an injury beneath AFP has protested to the stroying equipment during a his eye and received hospital Israeli military over the un- demonstration in the West treatment after the attack. provoked attack and intends Bank. The two journalists had - Andrea Bernardi, an Ital- arrived in the village of Beit plaint. on filing an official com ‘Price-tag’ attacks The impunity of extremist illegal Israeli settlers

Hebron 21-year-old Diyaa Abdul from Israeli soldiers, does human rights organisation, Halim Talahmah was shot not stand up to scrutiny. B’tselem, have accused the by Israeli forces in Hebron Palestinian eyewitnesses army of whitewashing the in September during pro- said the soldiers shot Diyaa, murders of hundreds of in- tests in Hebron which were - nocent Palestinian civilians. violently quelled by Israeli Israel’s failure to investigate forces. whichhis body. was Thisverified has by led medi to a such crimes has led to a The Israeli army claimed calgreat officials deal of whoanger examined amongst great deal of anger amongst that Diyaa died while throw- the local people. the Palestinian population, ing an improvised explosive who are continuously de- device that exploded pre- time that false reports nied recourse to justice. On Friday 31 July, Ali estinians by these extrem- ness testimonies. The lack of maturely. This account, like haveThis been is made not by the Israeli first Dawabsha, an 18-month- ists spreading terror in the arrest and prosecution of ex- many other testimonies old Palestinian infant, was West Bank. The so-called tremist settlers has resulted burnt to death by extremist ‘price tag’ attacks are carried in an increase in violence army officials. The Israeli Israeli settlers who attacked out by illegal settlers who against Palestinians. The his home as his family slept. have no respect for any law, Molotov cocktail thrown into Amnesty labels killing of Hadeel While the world grappled whether Israeli or interna- the Dawabsha family home with this atrocious crime, for tional. They include murder; at 1.30am at night was an- al-Hashlamon an ‘extrajudicial execution’ Palestinians this represent- physical assaults ranging other act of extreme violence ed yet another attack which from serious injury to spit- against Palestinians, with no In the latest act of sense- doctors were unable to save stated the killing of 18-year had gone unpunished. ting in the faces of babies; regard for the obvious harm less violence, Israeli forces her. old Hadeel al-Hashlamoun Palestinian president, uprooting hundreds of fruit that would be caused. in Hebron repeatedly shot by Israeli soldiers was an Mahmoud Abbas, denounced trees and burning entire or- The murder of Ali Dawab- a 17-year old girl, Hadeel al- that Hadeel attempted to “extrajudicial execution.” the murder as a “war crime”, chards. sha is not an isolated case, Hashlamon at a check point. stab a solider using a knife Hadeel’s murder is not and blamed Israel. Why The settlers in the West but rather a manifestation of Israeli officials claimed Eyewitnesses reported that and this led to her being an isolated case, and Israeli blame a state for the actions Bank are often armed and Israel’s apartheid and racist the soldiers then prevented shot in the legs. However, soldiers continue to act of a few extremist citizens? can be extremely violent; system. As long as Israel con- medics from reaching her, Youth Against Settlements with impunity. Calls are be- The simple answer is that yet they are protected by the tinues to support and fund leaving Hadeel to bleed group released photos ing made for this crime to Israel has for years allowed heavily armed IDF. Palestin- its illegal settlement activity from her wounds. This is showing Hadeel posed no be properly investigated. settler violence against Pal- ians facing settler violence in the West Bank, and fails - threat to the soldiers con- However, past precedent estinians to go unpunished on the other hand, do not re- to prosecute settlers for the graphic evidence which has - suggests no one will be despite the nature of the ceive IDF protection despite since emerged. When she counts were deliberate lies. charged for the death of this atrocious attacks, and the soldiers often watching the Palestinians, the greater the verified by video and photo eventually reached hospital, firmingAmnesty that theInternational Israeli ac Palestinian teen. misery brought upon Pal- attacks according to eye wit- dailyviolence violence becomes. they inflict on /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 INSIDE PALESTINE 3 Harsher punishments for Palestinian stone throwers

Israel has passed new 4-years in prison for minors. proved laws that impose up laws allowing dispropor- imposed on Palestinian chil- Israeli soldiers have also to 20 years in prison for Pal- force which is suppressing tionate use of force and “significantdren who throw fines” stones would and be estinians throwing rocks at fiance against an occupation childrenminors were with shot live bullets.and killed measures against Palestin- use live ammunition against moving vehicles. In 2014, 12 Palestinian- ians stone throwers. their parents. The measures beenPalestinian given stone permission throwers. to Palestinian children theirmodern rights democracy to life, freedom in the tests in the West Bank. Netanyahu announced otherwill impose objects, a asminimum well as forof Israel has previously ap- throw stones as an act of de- and liberty at every level. No by Israeli forces during pro

world responds to defiant Egypt floods Gaza’s tunnels with seawater

Egyptian military have reports estimate Gaza will - nean Sea water to the Rafah 2020. The international been transferring Mediterra- becommunity made uninhabitable has failed to re by- spond to this grim forecast. border in order to fill a new - ly-builtdestruction crude of canal. Gaza’s This lifeline has ing from a shortage of clean resulted in the flooding and waterGaza leading has also to been long-term suffer Egypt. tunnels,There connecting are currently Gaza 1.8 to problems.that the Sea Mayor water is of causing Rafah, who use these tunnels for Subhidamage Radwanand destruction confirmed and million people living in Gaza, is leaking into Gaza’s aqui- fer. He is concerned that the the basic essentials denied water shortage could lead to toresulted them byin the unprecedented 9-year Israeli the forced migration of the blockade.poverty in TheGaza. blockade Recent hasUN local population. AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 4 GLOBAL NEWS Palestine’s first professional basketball player

Sani Sakakini is Pales- Palestine flag flies - tine’s first professional bas at UN headquarters ketball player and hopes to become the first Palestinian to play in the NBA. “I am trying to prove to people in my country that I am trying to build something from nothing,” Sani Sakakini says. Sakakini grew up in the occupied West Bank in- the city of Ramallah. At the young age of 26 he has al ready played three seasons- in China, which helped him fund his trip to the Unit ed States to impress NBA scouts. Jerry Settle, Palestine’s basketball coach states, ““He is interested in doing what is the best for everyone. He hasn’t run off and left his people. He knows where he’s - from. He’s been trying to - - - help the people of Palestine - and teach them the game. 119 of 193 UN member Palestinian representa states voted yes at the gener tive to the UN, Riyad Man He’s trying to change a cul - - ture.” al assembly in favour of fly sour, responded to the vote, ing the Palestine flag at the- saying, “It is a symbolic From Gaza to Oxford: UN. The resolution is a mo- thing, but another step to so- mentous step towards inter lidify the pillars of the state national recognition of Pal of Palestine in the interna estine’s national aspirations tional arena,” according to Persistence triumphs over tyranny as well as their existence and- Al-Jazeera. - right to self-determination. “The sense of pride “It’s a step to the recog among the Palestinian peo - nition of Palestine as a full ple was overwhelming the member state at the United- As I prepare to leave the over whether it was going Gaza. I wondered, “should I believed that some dreams day the world voted in favour Nations,” stated Palestinian UK to return to Gaza, my to come true. In the month keep trying to get out of Gaza do come true. I couldn’t be of this landmark initiative,” prime minister Rami Ham mind is a jumble of thoughts. before I finally arrived on when it seems impossible, or lieve I would actually have- president Mahmoud Abbas dallah. When I originally filed my June 18, I was fed up and just give up my dream?” the chance to visit and train- wrote in the Huffington Post. visa application so that - I exhausted as I completed It was two years ago that at one of the greatest uni could study in the UK, my applications and tried to I was accepted into a clinical versities in the world. Eve- 343 UK academics boycott mind was a mess. I was chas follow the right procedures training program at Oxford ryone told me I didn’t have ing a dream and agonising to get permission to leave University. Until then, I never the slightest chance of be Israeli Universities ing accepted, so when I was, I couldn’t believe it. I was- among just 50 students from- all over the world to be se lected for this training at Ox ford. It is only a two-month- course, but let’s face it, it was a once-in-a-lifetime oppor tunity. I succeeded in getting my chance to study at Oxford. However, others failed and many others are still trying. In my university class there were about 18 students who- were supposed to travel and take similar courses in Ma laysia, Turkey, Jordan and Germany. But because of the border closings and eight- year blockade, they all lost their chance and are still in Gaza after years or months of trying for the opportunity to study outside. Being a Palestinian means an endless process of - suffering. If you’re a Gazan, - your suffering will even be 343 UK academics have- called for an academic boy worse. Will it ever cease? No pledged to boycott Israeli ac- cott against Israeli academic one knows. ademic institutions. The de institutions. This is the first cision calls for an end to Isra time academics have signed- el’s human rights violations their names and committed- By Said Al-Yacoubi and its illegal occupation of themselves to actively disen- Source: We Are not Numbers Palestinian lands. Last year, gaging from Israel’s universi the Palestinian Campaign for ty institutions, while affirm the Cultural and Academic ing their personal dedication Boycott of Israel (PACBI) to the liberation of Palestine. /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 GLOBAL NEWS 5 Netanyahu’s visit to the UK sparks protests

Hundreds of demon- tack on Gaza, also known strators stood outside as ‘Operation Protective Downing Street protesting Edge’, which resulted in the Bejamin Natanyahu’s visit deaths of 2,139 Palestin- to the UK. His two-day visit ians, including more than in London included talks 500 children. with David Cameron on Protestors demanded foreign policy in the Middle that Netanyahu be pros- East. ecuted for his war crimes Weeks before Netan- during Operation Protec- yahu’s arrival, 107,000 tive Edge. They left a very citizens in the UK signed clear message that Net- an online petition for his anyahu is not welcome in arrest after last year’s at- Britain. Palestinian rights supporter wins leadership of UK party On Saturday 12 Sep- tember, Jeremy Corbyn was elected as the head of the UK Labour Party. The left- wing lawmaker and outspo- ken supporter of Palestinian rights won almost 60 percent of the votes. In his victory speech, Corbyn spoke about social solidarity, working to eradi- cate poverty at home, and being a beacon of peace abroad. “Let us be a force for change in the world, a force for humanity in the world, a force for peace in the world,” the new leader said. Corbyn has visited Pales- tine nine times and supports a number of BDS initiatives. He is also a patron of the Pal- estine Solidarity Campaign and is well known for his support for Palestinian rights. His victory highlights mainstream political support for Palestinian rights in the UK. AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 6 SPECIAL FEATURE Attacks at the Sacred Al-Aqsa

#HandsOffAlAqsa

Top tweets:

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

Attack on Al-Aqsa at Eid al-Adha Al-Aqsa Intifada anniversary amid escalating violence

The Al-Aqsa intifada, or uprising against Israeli occupation began on 28th September 2000 and lasted until February 2005, resulting in the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians. It was sparked by a deliberately provoc- ative incursion into the holy sanctuary by then Defence Minister Ariel Sharon, flanked by 1,000 security guards. The violence which followed was well-documented by As Palestinians marked the world’s media, and began with the killing of 12 year old Muhammad al-Durrah captured by a French televi- sion crew. stant restrictions on Muslim Violence within Al-Aqsa has not abated in the years the final day of Eid al-Adha worshippers wishing to en- since, with the situation becoming catastrophic in recent celebrations, Israeli soldiers ter the site in recent weeks weeks. Israeli army Incursions and settler violence has continued to attack the Al- in an unprecedented move, become a frequent occurrence and worshippers face at- Aqsa compound. Witnesses which belies Israel’s intent tack and arrest as a matter of course. Israeli forces have say Israeli forces used stun to undermine Palestinian used punitive force against Palestinians this has included grenades and rubber-coated sovereignty over the site. In the use of live ammunition and stun grenades. Israel has steel bullets, targeting wor- a newly established sched- also used snipers on the roof of the mosque firing exces- shipers. ule, Israeli Jews have been sive rubber bullets at Palestinian worshippers. The violent attacks fol- permitted to tour the com- 10 years since the end of the Al-Aqsa intifada Palestin- low a week of increased pound between the hours ians are still resisting the violent Israeli occupation, with tensions and a number of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., during no sign of any peace agreements. The violence won’t end oflence confrontations against Palestinians at the which Muslim entry is se- until the occupation ends. compound, and wider vio- verely restricted. East Jerusalem, where throughout the West Bank. the Al-Aqsa Mosque is lo- The cause of much of the ten- cated, was illegally seized by sions has been the regular Israel during the 1967 Six- trespass onto the site by ex- Day war. The international tremist settler groups, who community have never rec- are escorted by fully armed ognised Israel’s annexation soldiers/police who use bru- of the area. Al-Aqsa is Islam’s tal force against Palestinian holiest site in Jerusalem. The worshippers in the area as struggle to protect Al-Aqsa these civilians defend their is coupled with the ongoing basic rights and property. struggle to end the occupa- Israel has imposed con- tion. /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 SPECIAL FEATURE 7

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

Israeli mob encourages execution of Is the status quo of al-Aqsa Palestinian teen in Jerusalem changing?

Palestinians and Israelis. The peace process has come to a completeJerusalem standstill, remains atwhich the heart is buying of the Israel conflict more between time to further annex Palestinian land and change the status quo of al-Aqsa. Although Benjamin Netanyahu says that the status quo will not change, right-wing settler groups want that to change. According to the 1967 agreement Israeli authorities made after illegally occupying Jerusalem, all faiths are allowed to visit the compound but only Muslims are allowed to pray there, while Jewish prayer is allowed at the Western Wall. The situation at al-Aqsa is volatile with recent increased tensions around the area. Netanyahu says his government plans to broaden the mandate of Israel’s - testors in the al-Aqsa compound. Palestinians have come army following weeks of fighting with Palestinian pro- lent assaults by Israeli occupation forces into Jerusalem’s In early October, Israeli celebrates the murder, ex- underal-Aqsa fierce mosque attack compound. as they try Ring-wing to prevent Israelirepeated settler vio forces executed 19-year-old claiming “death to Arabs”. groups, who are adamant on replacing the mosque with a Palestinian, Fadi Alloun out- The Israeli police con- Jewish temple are proclaiming their presence in the com- side of the Old City in Jeru- tinue to block off the Muslim pound ever more violently. salem. According to Israeli quarter of the Old City, se- Israeli forces storming of al-Aqsa mosque, which is authorities Alloun was killed verely restricting access to becoming more frequent, is seen as part of a gradual set- What can you do for Masjid after the stabbing attack that al-Aqsa. Palestinian homes tler colonial effort to take over al-Aqsa. wounded an Israeli teenager. and property have also faced al-Aqsa? However, no evidence was attack. The PRCS is trying to presented connecting Al- provide desperately needed 1. Join FOA’s campaign #handsoffalaqsa loun to the stabbing. Videos emergency services, yet the have been circulating online army has attacked its ve- 2. Help raise awareness about the dangers Masjid al- showing a crowd of Israeli’s hicles and medical staff 53 Aqsa faces. shouting, “shoot him!” Al- times. 37 emergency medi- loun is seen trying to escape cal technicians have been 3. Write to your MP highlight the issue further, calling from the mob. An Israeli po- wounded and up to 20 am- for an end to violence and destruction at the al-Aqsa bulances have been dam- mosque. Alloun while the Israeli mob aged. lice officer then shoots down AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 8 FOA UPDATES

A Message Branch Updates

The events in Palestine tinue with empty words of during October 2015 have condemnation, failing to Yorkshire shocked even those who follow them up with arrests have become hardened to or imprisonment. The re- Israel’s human rights abus- sult is a culture of impunity es. Teenagers of today who which is creating a popula- were born when the Second tion of illegal settlers who Intifada started in 2000 are are incapable of humanity seeing history repeat itself, when it comes to their Pal- and these children are the estinian neighbours. And at ones facing the brunt of the the same time, a Palestini- occupation soldier’s new an, no matter how young or policies. old, need only be suspected ‘Shoot to kill’ is now be- of a crime to be shot and ing employed against any- killed. one thought to be a threat. These Israeli actions Thus, young teenage girls are having a massive im- at checkpoints are executed pact on global perceptions. in cold blood, shot repeat- The global movement for edly at point blank range. the boycott of Israel goes Teenage boys who run for from strength to strength cover, are killed by police not because of the pro- while crowds bray and Palestinian movement, but scream their approval. This because the state of Israel situation is the new reality has lost its moral compass. that Israel is imposing on those whom it occupies. Ismail Patel Israeli Politicians con-

Follow on Twitter: @Ismailadampatel

The Yorkshire braches of ing reminded about FOA’s Manchester FOA took part in a sponsored work and how people can walk in the picturesque become involved. Malham Cove located in It was also an opportu- the Yorkshire Dale National nity to initiate local fund Park. raising projects. The overall The event was an excel- objective of the event was lent opportunity for families to act as a ‘thank you’ day and children to have a great out for all participants who day out, visit one of the UK’s regularly show their support national treasures, interact for FOA events locally and with people of other faiths nationally. and nationalities, while be-

Dewsbury and Batley

FOA Dewsbury and Bat- inspired her to do more ley are focussing on work- for Palestine as her role as ing closely with local MPs a MP. During her visit she ensuring political engage- witnessed a 10-year-old FOA Manchester is fo- Aqsa Mosque and discussed ment is taking place at the boy being unjustly arrested cussing on “Al-Aqsa in dan- the mounting dangers faced grassroots level. Dewsbury by 5 Israeli soldiers in the ger” and organised a hugely by Al-Aqsa today. The event MP, Paula Sherriff recently late evening. She was utter- successful public event, ad- helped to educate local com- visited Palestine with the ly appalled by the soldier’s dressing the escalation of munities about the occupa- Council for Arab-British actions. The experience has violence at Al-Aqsa which tion, especially regarding the Understanding. enabled her to gain a better started a few days before Eid changing status quo of Al- Ms. Sherriff has shown al-Adha. Aqsa and Jerusalem. an interest in becoming an and what the Israeli occu- The event was addressed To join the FOA Manches- advocate of the Palestin- understandpation means of for the Palestin conflict- by FOA chair, Ismail Patel, ter branch, please contact ian cause and said that her ians. who highlighted the his- [email protected] visit has deeply moved and torical significance of the Al- /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 9 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 58 | RAMADHAN 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 10 FOA LEICESTER UPDATE SHOP ONLINE TODAY

FOA.ORG.UK/SHOP

MADE IN PALESTINE KEFFIYEH AND MANY MORE PRODUCTS /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 55 | RAMADHAN 2014 MERCHANDISE 11

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WIN £20 Shopping voucher!

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

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

AL-AQSA CULTURE The prize will be given to the most creative poem.

Entries must be received by Friday 11th December E-mail your poem to: [email protected] (ask an adult to send your entry if you do not have an email address)

Don’t forget to include your name and address! Good luck!

COLOUR THE PICTURE CARTOON BY CARLOS LATUFF https://latuffcartoons.wordpress.com/ SEE MORE AT /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 FUN AND GAMES 13 SUDOKU CAN YOU SOLVE THE PUZZLE?

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

Jericho Hebron Tulkarm Jerusalem Ramallah Bethlehem Gaza Jenin AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 14 RECIPE Herbs and Spices used in Palestinian cooking

Manakish Method • Divide dough into 8 por- Ingredients • To make the filling, mix tions and roll each portion For the flat bread dough: za’atar and olive oil and set between your palms like a • 2 cups all-purpose-flour aside. ball shape. • 2 tsp dried yeast • 1/2 tsp salt • To make the dough, sift • On a floured working sur- • 1tsp sugar the flour, yeast, sugar and face, roll each ball flat us- • 1 1/2 cup warm water salt in a bowl adding water ing a rolling pin until even gradually until the dough and about ¼ inch thick. For the filling: comes together leaving the • 3/4 cup za’atar mix sides of the bowl clean. • Spoon the za’atar mix- (pre-mixed dried thyme Knead until it feels smooth ture over the disk-shaped with sumac and sesame and elastic. Cover with bread. seeds) cling film and leave it in • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil a warm place for about 2 • Slide your bread on a hours, until it has doubled lightly greased baking in size. sheet and cook for about 5 minutes or until the dough • Pre-heat the oven to gas is crispy and brown. Serve mark 7/220°C /425F/. warm. Za’atar is the Arabic word It can also be chopped for thyme, it is also the and mixed into bread word used for thyme spice dough. mixture. The Palestinian za’atar that most are Za’atar can be used familiar with, contains as Medicinal tea, ground thyme, ground Palestinians strongly sumac, toasted sesame believe in the healing seeds and salt. powers of the herb thyme (za’atar) particularly if you The wild thyme grows in have a cold, it is simply the hills around Jerusalem made from the steeped and throughout Palestine. leaves of fresh or dried thyme. How Za’atar Is Used The most popular za’atar Fresh za’atar, has many dish is called Manakish, a uses in Palestinian cuisine. fragrant flat bread spread It is often chopped into a with a mixture of olive oil salad, dressed simply with and za’atar. lemon, olive oil and sumac. Book Review Huma’s Travel guide to Palestine I come from there

I come from there and I have memories Born as mortals are, I have a mother And a house with many windows, I have brothers, friends, And a prison cell with a cold window. Mine is the wave, snatched by sea-gulls, I have my own view, And an extra blade of grass. Mine is the moon at the far edge of the words, And the bounty of birds, And the immortal olive tree. I walked this land before the swords Turned its living body into a laden table. I come from there. I render the sky unto her mother When the sky weeps for her mother. If you are thinking of visiting Palestine this is the travel guide for you. Huma’s Travel guide And I weep to make myself known to Palestine is immersed in history, religious traditions and the sacrifice of its people. It is an To a returning cloud. essential book for every Muslim household as it covers in detail information on Jerusalem, I learnt all the words worthy of the court of blood the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and historical Palestine. Each city is filled with important travel information from in-depth historical sites, accommodation and places to eat. So that I could break the rule. I learnt all the words and broke them up The book also provides: To make a single word: Homeland..... • Useful maps • A language and culture guide • Fiqh of travel Mahmoud Darwish • Biographies of key Palestinian personalities

Written by: Ismail Adam Patel and Arwa Aburawa. /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 CULTURE 15 The Fishermen of Gaza

‘The Fishermen of Gaza’ her new exhibition will hon- income, leading families to exhibition highlights the il- our and pay tribute to the live in abject poverty. legal sea blockade, and the According to Seba, “The brutality of the Israeli occu- - brutal Israeli occupation of pation against innocent Gaza braveder a fishermenstrict blockade of Gaza. and land, sky and sea is destroy- mustGaza keep fishermen within the are 6 nau un- ing vital infrastructures and to work and live with dignity. tical mile radius, which is killing thousands of civilians. fishermen,Artists forwho Palestine simply want are constantly policed by Israel. Today Gaza lies in ruins. using photography as a me- They often face harassment, Where once Gaza exported dium to capture how the boat seizures, the destroying - occupation impacts daily day it can’t even feed its own Palestinian life. Belgian pho- fishpeople.” and other seafood, to tographer Asmaa Seba hopes ofcontinue fishing to nets face andhuge arrests. loss of As a result, Gaza’s fishermen The Palestine history Gaza monologues tapestry project

The Palestinian history is that Palestinian women telling the story of the vil- tapestry project aims to tell are using art as a means to lages and towns, the life and The Gaza Monologues sonal experiences giving the eration Cast Lead. the story of Palestinian her- reclaim their identity and heritage of their ancestors is a powerful play created audience a snapshot of the The Gaza Monologues itage through traditional em- share their history, but also and forebears, the indig- by Ashtar Theatre, which lives of young Gazan’s liv- has been performed in cities broidery. to ensure that it is not lost. enous people of Palestine, was founded in Jerusalem in - around the world from Gaza, By using the art of em- “The History Tapestry through beautiful skilled em- 1991. The play was used as a cupation. The play is deeply Ramallah, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, broidery the project aims Project will empower Pal- broidery, and the Palestinian drama therapy initiative and ingmoving under and conflict takes a andlook ocat Stockholm, Vancouver, Bei- to preserve the heritage of estinian women, enabling History Tapestry Project.” - is written by young Palestin- the human impact of Israel’s jing, Sydney and many more, Palestinian ancestry. What them to engage in income Jan Chalmers, co-founder of ians aged between 14-16. bombardment in Gaza in including the UN Headquar- makes this project so unique generating activity whilst the project. - 2008/9, also known as Op- ters in New York. Palestinian Museum The stories reflect per to open in the West Bank by 2016 The $30 million Pales- opening date is symbolic as tinian Museum is scheduled it coincides with the Nakba to open in the West Bank in or ‘catastrophe’. The Nakba spring 2016. The museum refers to the day when hun- is located on the campus dreds of thousands of Pales- of Birzeit University in the tinians were forced into exile West Bank and will be “dedi- as a result of the creation of cated to preserving and cel- Israel in 1948. ebrating the culture, society, The Palestinian Museum and history of Palestine over seeks to keep Palestine’s the past two centuries,” or- memory alive by incorporat- ganisers explained. ing historical narratives of Several local and interna- Palestinians from across the tional donors have helped to occupied Palestinian territo- fund the museum. The open- ries (the West Bank, including ceremony of the Pales- ing East Jerusalem, the Gaza tinian Museum is set to take Strip, present-day Israel and place on May 15, 2015. The the diaspora). AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 16 TRAVEL TO PALESTINE Volunteer in Palestine

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

Volunteers from a recent trip have been speaking about their experiences. Visiting Palestine was “so much more than just a volunteering opportunity. It was an experience of a life time. I got to see for myself, what life is like living under occupation. I got to meet with the friendly locals, and listen to many of their stories. I spent time meeting & getting to know the younger generation, going on day trips and seeing many beautiful places. I always thought I knew a lot about Palestine, but until you see it, and experience it for

yourself, only then will you truly know everything about

Palestine. I’ve been to many amazing places, but my visit to Palestine beats them all. I will be“ back, and next time I will bring my younger children with me. Insha’Allah. I always said Palestine was “my home but now having been there I feel like a part of me is incomplete being back in

Ann from Ireland Zimbabwe. I pray that I can go again and that all of you

manage to visit it too. Palestine is the most beautiful place I For me visiting Palestine was“ a chance to experience what have ever seen. It is so amazing “ and blessed. The people are life is really like for the Palestinian people. I was incredible and so is the culture and history. pleasantly surprised by how beautiful the country was and

how welcoming the people are. The trip provided by VIP

gave an excellent insight to the real problem Palestine is Tanzila from Zimbabwe facing as well as the experience“ of a full cultural submersion with the host family.

Zohaib from Halifax

Palestine is one of the best“ places I’ve been to, without a doubt. There were so many unique memories and experiences that you will not encounter anywhere else on Earth. This includes the day tours to various cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Hebron as well as staying with

a host family and trying traditional Palestinian food. If you

have never been to Palestine I would strongly recommend Join us February 2016 to experience Palestine. Our trips you make it your next“ destination! You will not be disappointed! include volunteering work, sightseeing tours and educational talks. Contact us for more details.

Volunteer in Palestine - [email protected] Zabeer from Birmingham /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 17

Israel bans Islamic Movement in Palestine 53% of Israelis support Israel has banned the Is- one of the holiest and sacred lamic Movement in Palestine sites to Muslims. The Al-Aqsa extrajudicial killings accusing them of incitement compound has often been at the Al-Aqsa mosque dur- - A new poll by the Israel ed a terror attack against ing weeks of unrest. ily armed Israeli soldiers Democracy Institute shows Jews should be killed on “Any person who belongs storminga site of conflictthe withcompound heav that 53% of Israelis sup- the spot.” Including after to this organisation or who with ring-wing settlers. Al- port extrajudicial killings the suspect is arrested and provides services to it or who though the government has against alleged Palestinian even when they “no longer acts within its framework denied plans to control the attackers. The study was posed a threat”. The results is henceforth committing a area, Israel has restricted carried out at the end of criminal offence punishable access for Muslims to enter October where 600 adults extremely hostile climate by a prison sentence,” a gov- the mosque and frequently were interviewed. fromin the theregion, poll it is reflect of grave an ernment statement said. allows extremist settlers to According to the poll, concern that the major- The Islamic Movement enter the compound, most the majority of Israelis ity of Israeli citizens have based in northern Israel has of whom want to see the de- (53%) agreed, “any Pales- complete disregard for Pal- been at the forefront of destruction of the mosque. tinian who has perpetrat- estinian lives. fending the Al-Aqsa mosque, Israeli Knesset approves 3-year jail sentence for Palestinian stone-throwers The Israeli Knesset has equipped with the most ad- wing Jewish Home Party. She of impunity allows soldiers approved new legislation vanced military software in is known for making extrem- and settlers to get away with that will impose harsh pen- the world. ists statements against Pal- crimes including murder. alties for Palestinian stone- A total of 51 Israeli law- estinians. Only 8% of settler attacks are throwers. A minimum of yers voted in favour for the The new legislation only ever investigated and prose- 3-years in prison is now law while only 17 voted targets Palestinians and cuted, yet the new legislation the fate of many children against it. The law was pro- similar measures are not allows Israel to use dispro- posed by Justice minister imposed upon Israelis or il- portionate punitive meas- against an army which is Ayelet Shaked of the right- legal settlers. Israel’s culture ures against Palestinians. who defiantly throw stones AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 18 RECIPE /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 19 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 20

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Connect with us SCAN ME on social media for daily updates Sign up to FOA newsletters at www.foa.org.uk SalaahTimesLeicester.co.uk Stay in the loop with campaigns, news and actions alerts! /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 21

American students face death ‘Welcome to Palestine’ threats over Palestine protest

Passengers on an Ibe- “shocked” and that it was “unacceptable.” One passen- Aviv were upset when they ger wrote a letter to Iberia riaheard flight the from pilot Madrid announc to Tel- airlines complaining about ing “welcome to Palestine” the incident. Since then, Ibe- as the plane was landing. ria have apologised for any Passengers said they were misunderstandings. Students for Justice in a 6-minute “die-in” silent stated: “If there is one more presence on campus. #jew- Palestine (SJP) at the Uni- protest remembering the demonstration in the quad hater.” Despite the threats versity of Illinois-Chicago lives of Palestinians killed from your petty organisa- SJP students stated that organised a protest as part during Israel’s brutal on- tion, consider it to be your they will continue organis- of international day of ac- slaught throughout Octo- real bodies falling next time. ing protesting in the future. Amazon sells children’s tion for Palestine on Oc- ber. Days after the protest What you did was down- tober 14. Over a dozen SJP received a threaten- right anti-Semitism. Don’t ‘Israeli soldier’ costumes students participated in ing email message, which underestimate the Jewish Netanyahu blames Palestinians – not Nazis – for Holocaust

In an absurd statement which has been widely ridi- culed, Benjamin Netanyahu blamed the extermination of millions of Jews during the - ti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin al- holocaustHusseini, who on the died Grand in 1974. Muf Netanyahu provided no evidence for this dubious allegation, and there is cer- tainly no historic evidence to substantiate such a claim.

Netanyahu has attacked Husseini,This is despitenot the thefirst masstime rejection by historians of any such conspiracy. Netanyahu’s comments serve only to whitewash Hit- ler and are no doubt intend- ed to justify the continued persecution of Palestinians by the state of Israel. The claim that Palestinians are responsible for the holocaust There has been outrage which has resulted in 77 is nothing but propaganda, against Amazon following deaths and over 2,000 in- highlighting the depths to the sale of Israeli soldier cos- juries. Protestors called the which this Israeli prime min- tumes for Halloween. During ister is willing to go to con- the month of October alone, to children as being ‘utterly tinue his own war against a Israeli soldiers use lethal saleappalling.’ of Israeli soldier outfits race of people. force against Palestinians, AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 22 BOYCOTT CAMPAIGNS BDS victory in Iceland’s capital Hundreds unhappy with American singer Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams has dents wrote an open letter been criticised by Palestin- to Williams stating, “Wool- The city council in Rey- pendence, while condemn- of ethnicity and race, and ness and is a stand in soli- ian groups for his promo- worths is an apartheid- kjavík voted by a 9-5 major- ing “the Israeli policy of continues having the wall in- darity with the native people tional deal with Woolworths, Israel supporter. By trad- ity banning Israeli products apartheid” in the occupied side Palestine.” against brutal apartheid re- which stocks Israeli prod- ing with apartheid Israel, Palestinian territories. gimes. ucts. Protestors gathered Woolworths is raising their long as Israel continues its Councilwoman Björk Vil- we are seeing city councils Reykjavík’s boycott vote outside GrandWest casino capital so that apartheid fromoccupation official in the purchases Palestinian as helmsdóttir who proposed aroundThis theis not world the firstboycott time- is a symbolic victory and before US singer Pharrell Israel can continue to buy territories. the resolution stated, “I being commercial goods. Simi- shows how the international William’s concert in Cape weapons of mass destruc- According to Iceland lieve that the city is sending lar resolutions were made community are support- Town, South Africa. tion to threaten, harass and Magazine, the boycott is in- a clear message that it will during the 1970s and 1980s ing Palestinian rights in the Around 500 people dem- kill even more Palestinians, tended to show the city of not purchase products from during the South African mainstream. onstrated against William’s including many Palestinian Reykjavík’s support for the Israel while Israel oppresses apartheid. Boycotting goods support for Israel. The Con- children, every day.” right of Palestinians inde- another people on the basis has helped to raise aware- gress of South African Stu- London’s SOAS backs Israel boycott in referendum landslide

By Rana Baker backed the boycott in refer- Campaigners at the endums, the all-inclusive na- School of Oriental and Af- ture of the SOAS vote is prec- rican Studies (SOAS), Uni- edent setting. versity of London, are cel- Following the announce- ebrating a big victory for ment of the results, the SOAS the boycott, divestment and “Yes” Campaign issued a sanctions (BDS) movement statement emphasising that after a referendum to en- the victory “has demonstrat- dorse an academic boycott of ed the popular appeal of BDS Israel passed by a landslide as a powerful form of protest majority. and resistance…by voting in The results showed that favour of the academic boy- an overwhelming 73 percent cott, the SOAS community of more than two thousand - voters backed the boycott. ing commitment to freedom, Those eligible to vote on hasequality confirmed and justice its unwaver for all whether SOAS should cut all Palestinians and has reas- ties with Israeli academic in- serted its call for an end to stitutions included students, Israeli apartheid, oppressive faculty and contract staff. occupation, and settler-colo- Although other univer- nialism.” sity communities, student Originally published in: unions and academic bod- Electronic Intifada ies in several countries have /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 23

Palestinians reject Boris Johnson visit after ‘foolish’ #Black&PalestinianLivesMatter boycott comments

Boris Johnson has voiced “foolish” as Israel “is the only his opposition to the boycott democracy in the region.” In movement during his recent reality, Israel stands accused trip to Israel. Responding to of being a brutal occupying A new solidarity video gela Davis, Dr. Cornel West bombed and protests erupt- the contemporary Palestin- the recent pledge for aca- power with a merciless army has been released called and many others. ed in Ferguson after the po- ian struggle. The point here demic boycott by hundreds which rules Palestinians us- ‘when I see them I see us.’ Noura Erakat is a Pales- lice killing of unarmed teen is that solidarity is a politi- of university lecturers, he ing violence and brute force. The video includes over 60 tinian assistant professor Michael Brown. According cal decision on how to resist stated “the supporters of Extrajudicial executions and leading Black and Palestin- at George Mason University to Erakat “The point is not and how to survive in our this so-called boycott are a Apartheid policies are well ian artists and activists from and human rights attorney. to compare oppression, - bunch of corduroy-jacketed documented, making many the US to Palestine, includ- She had the idea for the Blacks the world over have dom.” lefty academics.” refute Israel’s claim of being ing LaurynHill, DAM, Omar video during the summer of suffered from a legacy of respected fights for free Johnson also called the a democracy. Barghouti, Alice Walker, An- 2014, when Gaza was being racism much deeper than BDS movement against Israel Israeli gunmen execute Spain ‘issues arrest warrant’ Palestinian in hospital for Benjamin Netanyahu Israeli gunmen disguised Doctors Without Borders shot in the head and upper as Palestinians executed a have condemned the raid body suggests this was an young Palestinian man in the and were “very concerned” extrajudicial execution, add- al-Ahli hospital in Hebron. about the safety of patients ing to a disturbing pattern This attack has generated in hospitals. Philip Luther, of similar recent incidents shock and fear amongst Pal- Middle East program direc- by Israeli forces in the West estinians, as nowhere seems tor for Amnesty Interna- Bank which warrant urgent to be safe anymore. tional said, “The fact that investigation.” A dozen Israeli gunmen Abdullah al-Shalalda was disguised themselves as Pal- estinians and invaded the al-Ahli hospital. The gunmen kidnapped 20-year- old Azzam Izzat Shaban al-Shalalda, a patient in the hospital and shot dead his 28-year-old cousin Abdallah Azzam Shaban al-Shalalda. Palestinian witnesses reported that Abdallah was shot in cold blood. “It was around 3am and I was asleep when a large number of undercover soldiers arrived. They put the other patients in the corner Israeli Prime Minister Strip to provide humanitar- mer defence minister Ehud and tied my hands with a Benjamin Netanyahu is at ian aid and construction Barak, former foreign min- belt. When Abdallah came risk of arrest if he enters materials. 500 passengers ister Avigdor Leiberman, out of the bathroom where Spain. A Spanish judge has were on the boats and the former minister of strategic he was washing his hands issued an arrest warrant for IDF mercilessly stormed and affairs Moshe Yaalon, former in preparation for morning Netanyahu and six other in- raided the Mavi Marmara interior minister Eli Yishai, prayers they shot him and dividuals over the 2010 Gaza ship and killed 10 human minister without portfolio rights activists. Benny Begin and vice admi- Reported, Bilal al-Shalalda, a In 2010, six ships were The other men included ral maron Eliezer, who was leftrelative him toof bleedAbdallah. on the floor.” flotillaon their attack. way to the Gaza in the arrest warrant are for- in charge of the operation. AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 59 | NOVEMBER 2015 /foapeaceinpalestine @friendsofalaqsa @friendsofalaqsa 24

Palestine vs. Saudi Arabia football match goes ahead

JOIN US FOR A WALK ACROSS LONDON AT NIGHT

Palestine is set to host but the match was resched- Saudi Arabia in a World Cup uled after Saudi Arabia’s concern over travelling into FIFA approved security guar- Palestine. The former FIFA qualifierantees from in the Al-Ram, Palestinian after president Sepp Blatter spoke authorities. The two teams to the team’s chiefs and the were meant to play each oth- match is set to take place in early November. er in RamallahForeign on October 13 Secretary ‘proud’ to support Israel

UK foreign secretary rael again when it is defend- Philip Hammond spoke at ing its right to exist and its a Conservative Friends of right to defend itself against Israel meeting in October attacks.” emphasising his party’s un- These words are deeply deniable support for Israel. shocking for anyone who re- During Hammond’s speech calls the horror of Israel’s at- he comforted supporters of tack on the Gaza Strip where Israel, reinforcing the gov- dozens of war crimes were ernment’s “unshakeable committed including the at- commitment” to the county. tacks on schools, the mur- Hammond stated that der of 4 little boys playing football on a Gaza beach, the summer, the prime minster, shelling of hospitals and the “DuringI, and the the chancellor Gaza conflict made last a displacement of hundreds of clear decision that we would thousands of civilians. 2,200 stand behind Israel and de- were killed in the attacks, fend what Israel was doing… many of whom were women and children. These are the and we are proud of that, crimes that our foreign sec- weand tookwe will a bit stand of flackbehind for Is it- retary is ‘proud’ to support.