September 2014

4-8 Ambassador Lars Faaborg- Andersen: a view on the Israeli – Palestinian conflict

10-13 H.Е. José João Manuel the first Ambassador of Angola to

18-23 Jews and the West AN OPINION OF A POLITOLOGIST

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Editor Eveline Erfolg Dear friends, All things change, and the only constant in spectrum of Arab and Muslim opinions, Writers Anthony J. Dennis the Middle East is a sudden and dramatic just as there is a spectrum of Jewish Patricia e Hemricourt, Israel change. opinions. Ira Moskowitz, Israel The Middle East is a very eventful region, As one of the most talented diplomats in Bernard Marks, Israel where history is written every day. Here history of diplomacy, Henry Kissinger Christopher Barder, UK you can witness this by yourself. It could said: “It is not a matter of what is true that Ilan Berman, USA be during, before or after a war – between counts, but a matter of what is perceived wars. South – North, North – South, to be true.” war – truce, truce – war, enemy – friend, Reporters Ksenia Svetlov Diplomacy, as opposed to war, facilitates Eveline Erfolg friend – enemy… Sometimes, these words (or sometimes hinders) conflict prevention Rhodes become very similar here. and resolution, before armed conflict Neill Sandler “A la guerre comme à la guerre” and begins. Diplomacy is a primary form of the biggest losers in this instability are politics among nations. Only diplomacy Advertising Tel: 972-3-56.220.61/2 the ordinary people, the civilians on offers various effective instruments of [email protected] both sides. In a fight between a state and statecraft, not only for the “weak,” but also non-state players there are no rules, and for the “strong” nations. Layout Yanka Studio sometimes responsibilities do not matter. For the upcoming Jewish New Year, www.yankastudio.ccom In his book How to Achieve World Peace, I would like to wish you peace – peace of Jim Des Rocher claims that: “The ideology mind and peace in general. I wish to all of Accounting Gabriel Elnathan of peace and freedom will always win the us that all of our conflicts will be resolved battles with the evil ideologies, because all in a diplomatic fashion. Legal Support Mati Simchowitz the strong minded, good willed people in Law Office this world believe in, and will fight for Sincerely, peace and freedom.” Hopefully, these Cover Illustrated Porcelaine people from across the world will look Julia Verdel Pomgarnates at the decision-making of Israel and ask Editor-in-Chief by Yanka themselves whether the country is doing all it can to bring peace and tranquility to its region. Hamas and ISIS are theocratic fascist cults The Diplomatic Club Magazine committed to the obliteration of Israel and, Printed Monthly as it looks now, the rest of the world as well. However, they absolutely do not Tel: 972-3-562.20.61/2 represent all Muslims. Polls suggest that Fax: 972-3-562.02.12 Hamas may very well not represent all [email protected] of the Palestinians in Gaza. There is a www.diplomacy-club.com 184/242ממוקם בתוך210/270

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Ambassador Lars Faaborg-Andersen: a view on the Israeli – Palestinian conflict

By Eveline Erfolg he EU and Israel share a long upon the successful completion of the children. It is imperative that both common history characterized negotiations between Israel and the parties immediately take steps to by increasing interdependence Palestinians. deescalate the situation and agree to a T ceasefire. Beyond that, there is a need and cooperation. Both share the DC: What is your opinion on the same values ​​of democracy, respect to devise a sustainable solution to the current war between Hamas and for freedom and the rule of law, problem, which will, among other Israel? and both are committed to an open things, include demilitarization of international economic system LFA: I am deeply disturbed by Gaza and normalization of life there based on market principles. Last the current violence over the Gaza through full opening of the crossings, year, 28 foreign ministers of the EU conflict. The indiscriminate firing reconstruction and so forth. suggested granting Israel the status of rockets against innocent Israeli Let me be 100% clear: the EU of a special privileged partner. The civilians is unacceptable and utterly considers Hamas a terrorist proposal included the expansion of condemnable and Israel is right to organization, we’ve put them on our trade and cultural relations, as well as act in self-defense. At the same time terror list, and they will remain on that deepening of the political and security I am appalled by the death and injury list until they give up terrorism as an dialogue. The proposal is conditional of so many Palestinians including instrument to achieve political gains. 4 Interview

So we have not welcomed anything drain the trust out of the negotiations, with Hamas. What we welcomed was The EU considers because they make the Palestinians the idea of reconciling the Palestinian doubt whether Israel is negotiating people in Gaza with the Palestinian Hamas a terrorist in good faith. As the negotiations people in the , which we organization, we’ve put are on-going, Israel keeps building think is the only long term solution settlements on land that is actually to the issue of the two-state solution them on our terror list, the subject of negotiations and the as well. Unless Gaza is part of the and they will remain drawing of final borders. equation, what are we talking about? Other issues where we have given A three-state solution? This is also on that list until they Israel advice which it does not a question of ensuring that Israel give up terrorism as an always follow include the spike in has a strong, united and credible Israeli demolitions of Palestinian partner that can really deliver a peace instrument to achieve homes, both in East Jerusalem, but agreement, once the modalities are political gains also in the so-called Area C. This agreed upon. is something that we are also quite critical of. In general, we want to see DC: The EU has had a political this money keeps flowing. Also, a stabilization of the situation on the impact on the Middle East Peace frankly, from Israel’s viewpoint as ground and therefore anything that process through its bilateral well, because if that money were works contrary to that is something cooperation with Israel and not forthcoming, it would have to we advise Israel not to do. Equally, Palestine in 1990s. Does the EU come from somewhere else, including we are also advising the Palestinians have direct political input and from Israel. I think we have a strong not to do some of the things they impact on the Middle East Peace dialogue with both parties, and we are do, including engaging in hateful process today? trying to provide our advice regarding the best way to move forward with the incitement campaigns against Israel, LFA: Yes, I think so. It has often aim of achieving a resolution to the we condemn any rocket attacks that been claimed that the EU is a Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Sometimes come out of Gaza, indiscriminate payer, but not a player, and that in Israel does not necessarily appreciate attacks against civilians. We oppose the Middle East we have a kind of particular proposals made by the EU, and condemn any kind of violence. division between the EU and the US, but we feel it is an important part where the US is close to Israel and the of being a good friend and a close DC: At the beginning of the 21st EU is close to the Palestinians. I don’t partner to somebody, that you’re also century, when Denmark held the think that either of those assertions able to tell them when they do things presidency of the EU, you served is correct, particularly not in recent that are not necessarily in their best as the Foreign Ministry’s Head of years as the EU has developed a very interests. Department for the Middle East close relationship with Israel, as well and Latin American Affairs, in as with Palestine. DC: Can you give an example of Copenhagen, and were a co-author of the ’s “Roadmap to As you know, already back in the a proposal made by the EU? a Permanent Two-State Solution Venice Declaration in 1980, the EU LFA: It’s well known, for example, to the Israeli-Palestinian Crisis.” was the first entity that proposed a that the EU finds the expansion of More than 10 years after this two-state solution after 1967. We have Israeli settlements in Palestinian document was adopted by the UN been working ever since on defining territories to be a very problematic Security Council, do you still hold the parameters for what we think a development. First of all, because its positions? two-state solution should look like. the settlements are illegal under Those parameters were to a large international law as we see it, but LFA: The Road Map is part of the extent also the point of departure also because they make a two- body of agreements that make-up for the recent nine month cycle of state solution more difficult. They the Middle East peace process. Of negotiations. Over and above that, we are carving the West Bank up into course, I still support it. When it was are the main funder of the PA, which a patchwork of isolated islands issued in 2003 there was a five-year obviously gives us a key role, because that makes it difficult to create a time frame, in which there are stages it is essential to the Palestinians that contiguous state. Secondly, they that have obviously lapsed, so it’s not 5 Interview

something you can be guided by in believe that many elements in the Road but nevertheless more sorely needed your daily work. On the other hand, Map are still very relevant and some now than ever before. it did introduce an important approach of them remain unfulfilled, and I think DC: Negotiations with the that was the idea of parallel and that they should certainly be fulfilled. Palestinian Authority have failed. reciprocal steps between the parties The concept behind the Road Map, As reaction to this, 29 members in order to achieve a sufficient level the idea of proceeding to a phase of of the EU Parliament called for of confidence, and also to stabilize the declaration of the Palestinian State an action to boycott Israel over developments on the ground. That with provisional borders, is a concept its settlement activities in the was a bigger challenge when the that is perhaps not as appealing as occupied Palestinian territories. Road Map was prepared, because it was at that time. I think that the Your comments, please. it happened during the Second Palestinian side feels that this has Intifada when there was a very high been tried and they are currently LFA: We have a critical policy that level of violence. It was focused very much against any kind of the is against the building of settlements. on establishing security cooperation so-called interim solutions. In that We have taken several practical steps between the Israeli and the Palestinian sense, I think that maybe there is less on the subject. For example, in 2004 security authorities, which was enthusiasm for that particular element and 2005 we introduced a system actually accomplished during those of the Road Map. However, I think where products that are coming years. In addition, there were a lot of that the general objectives of the Road from settlements are welcome on other elements, including a ban on Map, including the third phase where the European market, but since we establishing settlement outposts and final negotiations on the parameters don’t consider them part of Israel, other things as well, which were not for establishing the Palestinian State they don’t get into the internal market as successful in implementation. I should take place, remain unfulfilled, at preferential customs rates, as 6 Interview

opposed to the goods that are coming LFA: Well, this month an from Israel. We have an agreement There is no boycott; association, and a deep and with Israel that all products, with comprehensive trade agreement the exception of some agricultural we are just not extending will be signed between the EU and products, are coming to the European the same privileges to the Ukraine, plus a whole lot of macro- internal market without Israel having economic assistance to try and help to pay any duties, which is a huge settlements, as we extend stabilize the country and also bring it advantage. According to the figures to Israel, in accordance closer to the EU, in terms of values, we have, there are €250-300 million respect for minorities, and so on. That euro worth of settlement products per with an internationally process is on-going, and the next year, and this is a small fraction of recognized policy big point will be the signing of that the €30 billion trade that the EU has agreement in the month of July. That with Israel is the good part of the story. due to the reputational costs that It’s true that in there is a What has been going on in Ukraine could be involved. Moreover, growing skepticism about products is of great concern to the EU. This is there are some legal uncertainties coming from settlements. There are perhaps the biggest potential change that pertain to settlements because certain consumers – private consumers in the region since the fall of the they are in a disputed area. Some and consumer groups – that have Berlin Wall. We have a number of countries have also initiated labeling started boycotting them. It has nothing member states that are bordering requirements that say that products to do with the EU, the European Union this area and are adamant, as is the made in settlements cannot be labeled is on record and this is important to EU itself that we will not accept that as ‘Made in Israel’ because there are underline, that we are against Boycott, has a right to intervene in those legal requirements about not willfully Divestment and Sanctions campaign, border countries, where they perceive misleading consumers. we are against the isolation of Israel a threat to Russian minorities, like and we don’t support that. On the other There is no boycott; we are just not the illegal annexation of Crimea. We hand, we live in a free society where extending the same privileges to the find the referendum and everything people can have their own opinions settlements, as we extend to Israel, that went on there to be contrary to and we have no way to control this and in accordance with an internationally international law. recognized policy. It is something no wish to do so either. We also have the question of eastern that is targeted at settlements and In addition, we have implemented the Ukraine and I think what we have not Israeli business in general, and Guidelines that state that European managed to impress on the Russians, this is something we are underlining. taxpayers’ money cannot be spent and also on the government of Of course, there are companies in settlements, or in entities that are Ukraine, is that they have to sit that are saying ‘This is getting to operating or located in settlements. down and negotiate on these issues. I complicated to find out who in This was implemented with the don’t know what the solution will be, Israel is engaged, be it banks, be it Horizon 2020 science and research maybe it will be a greater degree of engineering companies and so on, too program. Again, the effect, the real regional autonomy, but the important complicated for us to distinguish who effect, is almost nil, because there thing is that any solution needs to are engaged in settlements,’ so they never were any applications from be negotiated, and not under threat choose to cut their relations altogether. settlements to participate in these of military action. This is why we This has happened with some pension programs, with the exception of one: have insisted that Russian troops funds, engineering companies, some Ahava Dead Sea products. be pulled out of the border area. Dutch and Scandinavian companies, We also impress on the Ukrainian The latest thing is that a number of but these are private decisions, taken government the need to secure member-states, which are in charge of presumably on a business basis. This the rights of minorities, including advising their companies and citizens is something we can do nothing in eastern Ukraine. It’s quite clear as to where it’s dangerous to travel about, but it is not something we are that there is a sort of bifurcation in or to do business, have published a encouraging. statement discouraging or warning Ukraine, economically and in their private companies from investing DC: What do you think about the attitudes towards Europe. We are not and doing business in settlements, future of EU-Ukraine relations? denying that there was a real division 7 Interview

Ambassador Faaborg-Andersen enjoying an off-duty moment with his daughter

within Ukraine on this question. What permanent representative to the UN LFA: Most of it for the better and we are saying is that this should not be in New York and from 2008 to 2013, I think it really is quite amazing and settled by military force and outside I was Ambassador at the Danish I have great admiration for what intervention. It should be settled by permanent representation to the EU Israel has achieved during those years. the Ukrainians themselves. Now Council’s Political and Security I’m working every day to strengthen they have elected with a substantial Committee. In 2013 I was appointed the understanding and cooperation majority a new government and we ambassador to Israel for the EU. between Israel and Europe. I think need to deal with that government I’m married and I have a daughter, that there is a lot of fertile ground that seems, at least at this time, to be who had the good fortune of being for that. We have our disagreements, quite pro-European. able to spend a great year in Israel. but what many people tend to forget, Basically I want to say that I’m very sometimes because it is taken almost DC: Please, tell us about yourself. as a given, is the very close-knit web pleased with my assignment here. It is of relations we have, in everything LFA: I joined the Danish Foreign something that I’ve been wishing for. relating to trade, travel, science Ministry in 1984. In the 1990s I I’ve been dealing with the Mid East and technology, which are bonding served as Deputy Head of Mission for over 15 years, yet I’ve never had us together and should serve as a of the Danish embassy in Pretoria, the chance to live here for an extended backbone when we have issues on South Africa and as Deputy Head of period of time, except for a short time which we disagree. I consider it a the Foreign Ministry’s Department in the 1970s at a kibbutz in the north. for Asian affairs. From 2000 to 2003 great privilege to be able to work I headed the ministry’s Middle East DC: A lot has changed here since here. department. Between 2003–2008 then. Do you think it’s for the I served as Denmark’s deputy better? 8 september 12, 2014 Invitation Plaza Hotel-nazareth The legal status Conference Schedule: of the Arab Community Conference schedule: The Legal Conference Schedule: 9:30-10:00 Reception and Registration 15:00-17:00 2 simultaneous Panels “legal tools for facing hate crimes, Greeting and opening remarks: 10:00-10:30Status discrimination, harassment in the work mr. Lars Faaborg – Andersen, head of del- The Legal place and restriction on political Rights”. of the Arabegation communityof the european union to israel Adv. Ahmad ghazawi, mossawa Center Mediator: Adv. nidal othman, director of Status the Coalition against racism and Advocate Board Member at the mossawa Center mr. Ali salam, mayor of nazareth of the Arab community mr. mazen ghanaim, mayor of sakhnin and speakers: mr. masoud ghanaim, mK in ra’am-ta’al the chair of the national Committee for the This Project is suported by : heads of the Arab Local Authorities in israel party Date: September 12, 2014 Adv. orna Lin, specialist in Labor law 10:30-12:30 First session: Adv. eitay mack, specialist in human rights Plaza Hotel-Naza“The legal statusreth of the Arab community: studies and representative of hate crime in light of the Increase in hate crimes and victims the war on Gaza”. For more information please conAdv.tact Msawsanossawa zaher, at director of Adalah’s This ProjectMediator: is suported mr. zoher by :bahalul, Journalist,04-8555901 el or [email protected], economic and education rights unit shams radio Adv. Awnee bana, head of the Arab minority speakers: rights department at ACri mr. mohammad barakeh, mK and head of Adv. ruth Carmi, Advocate in the Legal and hadash party public policy department of irAC and CAr For more informmr.ati osheikhn pleas ibrahime contac sarsour,t Mossaw mKa a tfor ra’am- Adv. ghadeer nicola, director of “Kav 04-8555901 orta’al [email protected] party Laoved”- the workers hotline in nazareth dr. Jamal zahalka mK and head of balad Adv. hossin manaa, volunteer party representative for arrested political activists prof. Asaad ghanem, Lecturer of political “the Arab Community: poverty, boycott and science at the university of economic potential”. dr. hala Khoury- bisharat, Lecturer of Law mediator: ms. muna omari, Journalist at Carmel Academic College and tel Aviv speakers: university mr. basel ghattas ,mK in balad party mr. Jafar Farah, director of the mossawa prof. Aziz heidar, Lecturer of sociology at Center david Yellin College and research Fellow at 12:30-14:30 second session the truman institute, hebrew university “Restrictions on freedom of expression: Adv. rawyah handaklow- Kayan Feminist legal and political aspects”. organization mediator: Advocate sameh iraqi, director ms. Khawla rihani- director of economic of Legal and socio-economic unit at the empowerment for women organization mossawa Center ms. huda Abu obaid, director of “Yasmeen speakers: el-naqab”, organization for women’s and dr. Ahmed tibi, mK and head of ta’al party family health. dr. hana sweid, mK for hadash party mr. Amir Fakhoury, researcher of political mr. gideon Levy, political writer and and social sciences at university of haifa journalist at haaretz mr. mtannes shihadeh, research Adv. Avigdor Feldman, specialist in criminal Coordinator at the mada el Carmel Center law Adv. reda Jabber, “Aman Center” – the prof. Amal Jamal, Lecturer at the political Arab Center for a safe society science mr. eyad snunu, economist at the mossawa department at tel Aviv university and Center director of i’lam media Center dr. ilan saban, Lecturer at the Faculty of Law at the university of haifa 14:30-15:00 light lunch Interview

implementation of the national reconciliation process. Second, it focused both the available human and financial resources, initiating a huge process that is still ongoing, towards national reconstruction of infrastructure destroyed by the war. In other words – to implement an ambitious development program. In short, nowadays the Angolan government is working hard on maintaining peace and strengthening the democracy, as well as the processes of reconstruction and development of infrastructures, while devoting more resources to improve the social conditions of citizens following the slogan: ‘Growing More and Distributing Better.’ DC: With a population of approximately 18 million people, Angola has been blessed by an abundance of natural resources: oil in the sea, fishing on the coasts, fertile land and mineral reserves. How is Angola utilizing these treasures? HIS EXCELLENCY JJM In May 2014, Angola held its first major general census of population and housing. Only after José João Manuel– the results disclosed we will know exactly how many we are, but the first Ambassador certainly the current population of Angola is around 20 million. On the other hand, the geographical size of of Angola to Israel Angola is 1,246,700 km2, which is something like 60 times bigger than DC: Peace has become a reality in Regarding the question, as you can Israel. All revenues that the country Angola since 2002, when the civil imagine a 27-year civil war left gets from our natural resources are war that lasted 27 years ended. the country in a deeply difficult being channeled to the programs of What is the main focus of Angola situation in practically all sectors, reconstruction and development and today? severely affecting the economy. With training of human resources. The JJM: First of all, allow me to the achievement of peace in 2002, education and health sectors are the thank you for your kindness to let us the Angolan government quickly major beneficiaries. By the way, I share with you, and through you to focused its efforts on two lines of would like to emphasize that health share also with your readers, some action. First, it directed its efforts and education are free in Angola. information about my country, the in creating the conditions for an By its geographical size and Republic of Angola. Thank you effective transition and stabilization number of population, it is easily Diplomatic Magazine. of democratic mechanisms, and understandable that in Angola there is 10 Interview

a great demand for financial resources level of relations. The training of for the construction of thousands Nowadays the Angolan Angolans technicians in Israel and of kilometers of roads, bridges, government is working the presence of Israeli experts in hospitals, schools and homes. To Angola with know-how in the sectors have an idea, with the achievement hard on maintaining peace of agriculture, telecommunications, of peace, the government decided, and strengthening the trade, water, etc. is already as one its priority, the rehabilitation considerable. As an example of the of the Benguela railway that is a democracy, as well as the good relations, allow me to say that railway line that connects the Atlantic processes of reconstruction currently we are registering a monthly coast of Angola to the east border average of 100 requesting visa with the neighboring countries of and development of and traveling to Angola. Also, recently Democratic Republic of Congo and infrastructures there has been an enhancement of Zambia. The length of the railway is cooperation in the cultural field with more than 3000 kilometers. For your of Angola were $33.20 billion. To very satisfactory results. information, Angola is the second counter the strong dependence on the largest oil producer in Africa with oil sector, the Angolan government DC: You are one of the longest- 1 million 800 thousand barrels per has set priorities for non-oil economy, serving ambassadors in Israel; day and the forecast is to reach 2 giving a greater role to the mining, you’ve witnessed many changes million barrels per day in 2015. In real estate, agriculture, manufacturing, here. What do you think of Israel? the diamond sector, Angola is among etc. JJM: Angola and Israel established the five largest diamond producers in diplomatic relations in 1992. Angola DC: Are there any private foreign the world by the value, and among opened its Embassy in Tel Aviv in investments? the ten largest producers in quantity, 2000 and since January 2001 I am and in 2012 registered a production JJM: Angola is a country in serving, with pleasure, as Ambassador of 8 million carats, which provided peace and with various business of Angola to Israel. In fact, from 2001 an income of $1.17 billion. opportunities. The Angolan till today, Israel has undergone several market remains open to all foreign political moments that I was lucky DC: In 2007 the International investors wishing to participate in enough to witness. I consider Israel Monetary Fund predicted that the development programs of the an economically active and politically Angola will reach 31.4% annual country, mainly in the construction vibrant democratic country. growth of its GDP, placing the of infrastructure, because the law country in the position of the promotes private investments in DC: What is your opinion on the fastest growing economy in the the Angolan market, opening it to Israeli-Palestinian situation? world. Did this prediction come businessmen from other countries I personally understand that true? JJM: with money to invest, protects the the situation of the Israeli-Palestinian JJM: That prediction was not investment and allows the repatriation conflict is very complicated and achieved in the numbers that you of profits. Thank God we are difficult to solve. Therefore, both the mentioned because, as you know, experiencing an increasingly growing Israeli and Palestinian authorities will in 2008, the world began to face presence of foreign businessmen in have to be very courageous because an economic and financial crisis. the country, among them also Israeli they have to make decisions that Angola, being part of this global citizens and businesses. According to will not be pleasant to many of their village, logically saw the level of the institution that regulates private citizens, but that may be the key growth of its economy reduced. investment, in 2013 investment to solving the problem. It will take Still, Angola continues to be among projects reached the amount of $ both parties to engage seriously in the first on the list of the countries 7.3billion. a very continuous and constructive with growing economies. In 2007, dialogue until they gain the trust of DC: What is the nature of Angola’s economy grew 23.3%, in one another. When this time comes, Angola-Israel relations? 2008 the growth was 13.80%, in they will also reach peace. In this 2012 – 5.2%, in 2013 – 5.1%, and the The relations with Israel are very respect, Angola joins the stance of forecast for 2014 is 7.9%. Earlier this good. The economic and financial the international community, led year the gross international reserves sectors have been key to the current by the UN, which advocates that 11 Interview

my eldest son was 16 years old and dialogue is the only way of resolving I consider Israel the youngest 4. Virtually all grew the conflict following the formula two up here and today they see Israel as people – two states living side-by-side an economically active their second native land, because it peacefully. and politically vibrant was here that they began to discover DC: Please, tell us about yourself, democratic country the good things that life offers them. your career and your family. Actually, all their friends are here and active due to the local dynamics, all what they have learned directly or JJM: I arrived in Israel in 2001 as on the other, in addition to having indirectly is connected with Israel. At the first Ambassador of my country, made many friends, I have had the the time of departure it will resonate to open the Embassy, in a complicated opportunity to visit, when I want, arguably in their lives. My wife and time, because of the ongoing Second important historical sites of the Holy I also made a lot of friends and met Intifada and there were bombs Land. The fact that I came to Israel, many wonderful people. So for all that going off in various cities of Israel, changed completely the family Israel represents for us as Christians, including Tel Aviv. Interestingly, I situation – wife and 5 kids – because Israel is surely a country that we will came from a country which also lived in Angola for reasons of war, I was always have the pleasure of returning through a devastating war and had absent. That situation wouldn’t let to and visiting our many friends and just arrived in another completely me follow closely the education and enjoying the beauty of the sacred different one, also living through a development of my children. Coming places of the Holy Land. conflict. For this reason the conflict to Israel allowed me to finally reunite situation here did not affect me much, the family and share daily with my and despite all this I adapted quickly wife the challenges of education and and started to develop my work, while raising of our children and be with trying to understand Israeli society, its them a little bit more. Rachel Witzman BLACK MAGIC WOMAN dynamics of politics and diplomacy. Today, after 13 years in Israel, we Photo origin: Eritrea I like to be here because, if on the can say that we are living a great Mixed media on canvas one hand, I find myself constantly experience. When we arrived here, 12

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ISRAEL WELCOMES NEW AMBASSADORS

H.E. Ambassador Vivian H.E. Ambassador Bercovici of Pajo Avirovikj of Macedonia Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird issued the following This is the second statement announcing the ap- time that Am- pointment of Vivian Bercovici bassador Pajo as Canada’s new ambassador to Avirovikj was ap- the State of Israel: pointed to Israel. Previously, in May 2011 he was appointed Per- “Canada and Israel share a strong and multi-faceted relationship manent Representative of the Former Yugoslav based on shared values, common interests and strong political, Republic of Macedonia to the United Nations. economic, cultural and social ties.” Until that appointment, Mr. Avirovikj was his “Having lived in Israel and written extensively on the region, country’s Ambassador to Israel from September Ms. Bercovici has an excellent understanding of the challenges 2009, prior to which he served as Charge d’Af- facing the country and deep insight into the opportunities faires at the Embassy from June 2008. From May provided by the strong links between our two countries.” to June 2008, he was Head of the Embassy’s Having studied at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem from Liaison Office. 1981 to 1982 and written a monthly column for the Between June 2006 and May 2008, Mr. Avirovikj Star on Israel and issues in the Middle East since January held the position of State Counselor and Director 2013, Vivian Bercovici has maintained a strong interest in and for Public Diplomacy in the Ministry of Foreign knowledge of Israel. She holds a BA (with honors) in English Affairs, having served as Head of Sector for Bi- and Political Science from York University, a Diploma in In- lateral Relations with European Countries from ternational Relations from the London School of Economics January to May 2006. He was Deputy Head of and Political Science, and a degree in Law from the University Sector for the coordination of the Minister’s Cab- of Toronto.From 1990 to 1995, Ms. Bercovici practiced law at inet Affairs between May 2005 and January 2006. Paterson MacDougall, focusing on media defense work. From In addition to serving as Minister Counselor at his 1995 to 1997, she was a policy adviser to Ontario’s minister of country’s Embassy in Paris from February 2001 finance. She joined the Dominion of Canada General Insurance to April 2005, Mr. Avirovikj was Director of the Company as a legal executive in 1998 and was promoted shortly Department for European Countries between1998 afterwards to vice-president, general counsel and corporate and 2001, and Head of the Division for Western secretary, a position she held until 2006. From 2007 to 2013, Europe from 1997 to 1998. she was a partner with Heenan Blaikie LLP. An award-winning author and journalist, Mr. Recently, Ms. Bercovici was a partner at Dickinson Wright Avirovikj studied at the École Nationale d’Ad- LLP. She practiced in the areas of regulatory insurance, risk ministration in Paris, , and holds a master’s management, corporate governance, privacy, Aboriginal and degree in Oriental Philology from the University First Nations law, public policy and legislative advice. of Belgrade in Serbia, having earned his bach- Ms. Bercovici has been a member of the boards of CBC/ elor’s degree from the University of Sarajevo in Radio-Canada and the Canadian Journalism Foundation. In Bosnia and Herzegovina. addition, she has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto in the Faculty of Law.

14 News

ISRAEL WELCOMES NEW AMBASSADORS

H.E. Ambassador Tamara H.E. Ambassador Mugoša of Montenegro Richard Laus Angualia of Montenegro appointed Tamara Uganda Mugoša as its first ambassador to Israel. She will represent Uganda appointed Montenegro on a non-resident Mr. Richard Laus basis with a seat in Podgorica. Angualia as its The former President Peres noted that the two countries’ ambassador to Israel. relations are very good, with a pronounced potential for their He will represent Uganda on a non-resident basis, further improvement, and he especially emphasized the need with a seat in Cairo. for the two countries to cooperate in the area of research. As the new Ambassador presented his Letters of Ms. Mugoša agreed that the two countries have excellent Credence to former President Peres, he thanked possibilities for further development of relations. She spoke him and said: “Uganda and Israel have enjoyed about the further activities and perspective for cooperation, very good relations for many years, and we expect especially in the areas of agriculture and tourism, and to strengthen them in the coming years. We thank highlighted the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme, in which you, Mr. President, for your important role in both countries participate and which opens room for joint these relations. I wish to congratulate you for the projects in the area of science and innovation. democratic elections for the presidency, which brought great honor to the State of Israel, and it is Ms. Mugoša also underlined that Montenegro values greatly a privilege for me to have experienced the election Mr Peres’ efforts to reach a lasting peace between Israel and process”. the PA through negotiation and building of trust. She voiced Montenegro’s readiness to support the actions of the Peres President Peres welcomed Mr. Angualia and the Peace Centre, where the former President will resume his other Ambassadors, and stressed that the State activities, by implementing activities that could provide of Israel will help them broaden the mutual incentive for an improvement in the Israeli-Arab dialogue. cooperation as much as possible, and said: “This house is open for you – please feel at home. You Looking back at Montenegro’s efforts in cherishing and will discover that the State of Israel and its citizens developing harmonious multi-ethnic and religious relations, appreciate you very much. Our relations are very she noted that the Jewish community in Montenegro is good, and it is important for us to keep them as such playing an important role in that respect. and strengthen them. We will help you and stand Between 2007 and 2010, Ms. Mugoša held the position of by you in everything you need.” First Counselor in the Embassy of Montenegro to the Holy In 2012 Mr. Angualia was appointed as ambassador See and to the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Prior to of Uganda to Egypt; prior to that he served in that she served as Advisor to the Mayor of the capital city the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala. Mr. of Podgorica. Angualia is also a former assistant commissioner She holds a B.A. in Law (with honors) from the Podgorica in the ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Law School. Development in Uganda. He studied at the Makerere University of Kampala, Uganda.

15 Events

Celebration of Moldova in Israel

n August 27, 1991 the ago will soon be reinforced by the Bulba, as well as representatives of Parliament of the Republic prosperity and the rule of law entailed the Soldiers-Veterans Union. Oof Moldova adopted the by the European integration. The ceremony was also attended Declaration of Independence. The Embassy of the Republic of by ambassadors and diplomats Moldova became a sovereign state Moldova noted this remarkable day from Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Proclaiming its independence in on the evening of August 24th in the Romania, Nepal, Slovenia, Serbia, Sri 1991 was just one step in a long and Einav cultural center in Tel Aviv. Lanka, Nigeria, and other countries, difficult journey. Only in 2009 the The ceremony was attended by the as well as by Patriarch Theophilos III Republic of Moldova became Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor of Jerusalem and the archimandrite able to embrace and promote EU Lieberman, Minister of Tourism Uzi Timotei Aioanei. accession ambitions. Having Landau, Minister of Immigration The Ambassador of Moldova to Israel, signed free trade and association and Absorption Sofa Landver, MK Anatol Vangheli, began his greetings agreements with the EU, Moldova Boaz Toporovsky (‘Yesh Atid’ Party), with words of support for Israel in is now viewed as the success story Director General of the these hectic times: “I am delighted to of the Eastern Partnership. The Ronen Plot, Deputy Mayor of see so many guests at this celebration courage and consistency with which Ashkelon Alex Sultanowitz, Deputy on the occasion that is so important both its politicians and the public Mayor of Migdal HaEmek Sergey for my country. We are together, implemented painful reforms, Oklander, Honorary Consuls Simo despite the tense situation in Israel. In entitle Moldova to hope that the Tubul and Shmuel Roitman, the writer this regard, the Republic of Moldova independence proclaimed 23 years Efraim Bauch, the artist Vladimir expresses its full support of the State

16 Events

Celebration of Moldova of Israel and its people, with the hope strengthening the friendship between both countries, strengthening bilateral of a peaceful future. “ the two countries. relations. in Israel A support of a friendly country Mr. Vangheli also thanked the Two years ago, Moldova abolished is always pleasing, but what representatives of the Association visa requirements for Israeli particularly struck the audience was of Moldovan Immigrants in Israel citizens. The entry without a visa that the ambassador welcomed the “Izvoraş.” to Israel should’ve been resolved guests in Hebrew. Afterwards, Mr. In the following speech, the Minister for the citizens of Moldova this Vangheli recalled the difficult path of Tourism, Uzi Landau said that year. However, due to the hostile of Moldova since the establishment since the establishment of diplomatic situation the decision on the matter of independence, which culminated relations between Israel and the was postponed. Nevertheless, the in a successful integration into Republic of Moldova in 1992, the number of tourists from Moldova the international community. two countries have good and friendly during the Operation Protective Edge He emphasized that Moldova’s relations based on reciprocity and was one of the highest. achievements would not have been trust, which should be continued At the end of the official part possible without the close cooperation and strengthened. Moreover, the of the evening, the ambassador with the international community, existing potential for cooperation of Moldova raised the following and without a stable support from a can foster closer relations between toast: “Let me raise a glass of number of countries, among which these countries. wine for the strengthening of our is: “Israel – our friend and reliable The Minister of Immigration and friendship, effective cooperation partner”. Absorption, Sofa Landver, noted that and mutual support that will The Moldovan Ambassador expressed there are 80,000 immigrants from reinforce our independence thanks to the Minister of Foreign Moldova living in Israel. She also and sovereignty, and promote Affairs of Israel, , stressed that an important factor in peace, stability and prosperity of who is a native of Moldova, for his the development of relations between Moldova and Israel!” significant support and assistance in Moldova and Israel are citizens of

17 Opinion

Jews and the West

by Leonid Radzikhovsky

ost of the European TV and understand for ourselves some channels show the war obvious, in my opinion, things. No one cares about Mof Palestinian terrorists Firstly – there is no “Palestinian the fate of the Palestinians, against Israel in an outrageously problem”, i.e., the problem of “how rude, false and cowardly fashion. to build Palestine.” It’s just a lie nor in the Arab world, It looks like an exact copy of the to cover up a completely different neither in Europe, and Soviet “anti-Zionist” propaganda of problem – “how to destroy Israel.” the 1970s. Yes, as it was in the USSR, Why do I think so? Because, when most ironically – neither in so it is in Europe, “anti-Zionism” is Jordan, according to official figures, Palestine itself a transparent pseudonym of straight- destroyed, crushed and shot, with forward anti-Semitism. tanks, no less than 100,000 (one receiving the bodies did not even Incidentally, among the many Soviet- hundred thousand!) “Palestinian think of crying. They had quite a era illusions that we should abandon, brothers,” no one in the Arab world “businesslike” attitude to the whole is the illusion of “an enlightened was crying out loud and making proceeding. And the world acted like Europeans” that the “wild Russia” petitions to the UN on the account of nothing happened as well. No one will never be able to reach, at least this event. Moreover, there were no issued any cries when about 1,000,000 in terms of the most vulgar anti- Palestinian shahids avenging fellow (one million!!!) died in this war. It is Semitism, including state anti- Jordanians. None of the European like these people and this war never Semitism (we should leave the tales humanists said anything as well. happened. of the independence of the media for Hence, no one cares about the fate So, when Arabs kill Arabs, the Euro- morons). So, in terms of prejudice of the Palestinians, nor in the Arab Arab PR agencies yawn in silence. It against Jews, the Europeans can really world, neither in Europe, and most is unprofitable and uninteresting. The enlighten today’s Russia, and that ironically – neither in Palestine itself. world media comes to life only when much is true. A “politically correct” Another example: Arab mothers, it comes to Jews. In these cases, the anti-Semitism, “Jew-hatred in the hysterically sobbing into camera, are rich Arab countries generously pay for name of humanity” – these are the known to all (the same mothers are terror and PR against Israel, but they latest discoveries of the “acute Gallic celebrating and hugging, marking do not care a hill of beans about the sense,” and “gloomy Germanic the death of their shahid-children; the employment of Palestinian refugees genius.” Russia, as always, is same mothers are also selling their in their own countries, and they care lagging behind the advanced Europe. children by sending them to die for even less about Palestinians living in However, Russia, as always, will the well-known payment of 10 to 20 Palestine. learn, sooner or later – there is no thousand dollars). The conclusion is obvious. No one doubt about that. But here’s a curious thing: one of cares at all about Palestine, but cares One thing is not clear though – so the TV channels recently showed deeply about Israel. There is no what? What is the conclusion? We the exchange of bodies during the Palestinian problem, there is a Jewish need to try to dampen the emotions Iran-Iraq war. And Arab mothers problem. 18 Opinion

Secondly – what is the essence of the Jewish problem? High oil prices are profitable for Arabs. For this purpose, blood must flow near the oil. A constant stirring up of tension in Israel is a very profitable business, considering the fact that the costs of shahids and “independent European humanists” are, generally speaking, quite insignificant. Especially in comparison to profits from continuously rising oil prices. The rate of profit in this business is hundreds of percent. But it’s not only that. The economically powerful Arabs wish to feel politically influential as well. The destruction of Israel is the perfect way of self-assertion: the annihilation of Israel would be a real earthquake in world politics, given that Israel has no real defenders in the world! And, it is not Israel in itself. By itself, to “big” Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia or Iran, Israel is almost as uninteresting as Palestine. However, it is vital for them to crush Israel as a bastion of foreign, Western culture. Because it is in Israel that East and they are the “chosen people”! The situation is beginning to resemble West meet. It is in Israel that the East So now the Jews are again in the the 1930s, when Europe and the is trying to defeat the West. Israel is center of the collision between the partly feared Hitler, just a symbol, a touchstone, the first Muslim and Christian civilizations. partly admired him. In any case, his step on the road to world domination. Moreover, Muslims hate Jews openly, anti-Semitic policies did not cause Such is the fate of Jews in history – while Christians, as they are taught to the slightest irritation (not to mention they have been, they are and they shall be, are hypocritical and do it in secret a stronger reaction) in Europe. Even remain in the center of global world (as they are crying oh-so-loudly “love more so, the Europeans could not conflicts. Nothing to be done about it, thy neighbor!”) imagine that the bell that was tolling 19 Opinion

a gigantic force. Jewish voters are less than 1%, and the vaunted Jewish bankers have less money than the Arab sheikhs. And it is impossible to understand who these Jews vote for (very similar to Russian-Jewish oligarchs, most of whom do not rush to announce that they are Jews, and in no hurry to defend Israel). And the most important thing: as in the 1930s, when Europe did not want to consider the unthinkable – that Hitler was not against the Jews and communists, but against the Europeans themselves; that he intended to devour them. Thus it is today: Europeans do not want to believe that the Muslims are against them. When someone mentions a “war of civilizations” – it is treated as meaningless chatter that no one for the Jews might be tolling for them seriously believes. Arabs want only as well. They heard these bells alright, There are a million the liberation of the occupied lands, but not even in 1939, when a false Palestinians living in peace a creation of their own state. And if it “Phony War” was declared on Hitler. isn’t so, they wish… well… let’s say, That happened only in 1940, when “la in Israel as Israeli citizens, they wish to destroy Israel. belle France” fell in an unprecedented but the first Jew that will However, first of all, it’s unrealistic, and disgraceful defeat, collapsing secondly, Israel deserves it, and under the German onslaught like a try to live in the Palestinian thirdly, what does Europe care?! Why deck of cards. Authority will be torn to should Europe interfere? One Israel The lesson is: the Jewish problem more, one Israel less – Europe has does not exist in and of itself. It is part shreds no claims towards Muslims, and they, of the context of the Arab-European for the robbers, and not the robbed – respectively, don’t have claims to it. problem; a part of the problem of a something that became a profession September 11 was the moment Muslim-Christian clash, in which for independent Western intellectuals of truth. The sayings that “after the Jews play the role of a fuse, of (among which, by the way, many September 11, the world has changed” the “white vanguard,” committed, of Jews are traditionally present). By are just a mocking lie. The world course, to the “white nations.” the way, nowadays, these Jews are remained absolutely unchanged – it Thirdly – what is the meaning and in an interesting position: as true was just two towers less. Absolutely where is the sweetness of this betrayal “lefties,” they are obliged to protect nothing has changed in the minds of for the Europeans? There are, of the Palestinians. And as Jews… Well, the people, except that the fear of course, a lot of factors: the usual let’s see how they will act “as Jews.” Muslims has become bigger (and thus Christian anti-Semitism and the But the main thing, of course, is more irritation toward Israel). “revenge for the Holocaust” (it is not these emotions. Everything is All the pathetic chatter about unpleasant to constantly be reminded much simpler. Arabs pay the selfless “international terrorism” is a direct of one’s own guilt!). There is also Western media. Arabs control the mockery. What is this international the naïve “left” mentality, the natural oil needed in Europe. Between 5% terrorism, who is its leader? “Captain sympathy an “intellectual” feels for to 10% of Europe’s population is Nemo” Osama Bin Laden in person? murderers, and not the murdered, Muslim; during elections it represents And that’s all? No one dares to say 20 Opinion

Silence leads to Holocaust! Do not run and do not be silent! that 2 times 2 equals 4 and that the obvious nesting place of the world’s shahids is in Palestine. No one dares to admit that as long as the Palestinian terrorism is not stamped out, the shahidi movement will only expand. Something would have changed after September 11, if Europeans had concluded that they will no longer patronize the terrorists and will help Israel to fight the common enemy, or at least – not interfere in Israel’s battle. The West has made the exactly opposite conclusion – it hopes to pay off the terrorists with Israel, and it hopes to sign a secret “Munich Agreement,” a “Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact” at Israel’s expense. Well, we all are faithful to our genes. Europe, as in the 1930s, is cravenly wheedling before the aggressors and chocking on its ill-disguised anti-Semitism. The Jews are serving as the “world’s scapegoats” as for the past 2000 years, and the Nazis…well, the Nazis will remain Nazis, brown or some other color. A fatal picture? Not at all. The Jews are not those poor civilians marched to slaughter with carts to Babi Yar. In addition, the position of the United States is still a little bit different from the Euro-abomination. And today’s Nazis are missing a trifle – common interests, so they are fighting each other, like jackals. There is hunting instinct after the frightfully However, these chances were present no prey for them yet, but they’re mincing West. in the 1930s as well. already squabbling. As for the goal There is no conscious struggle for In conclusion, dear readers, let’s ask – contrition of the West – is not so world domination yet, but Europe ourselves: “what have I done for clearly felt by all in the Muslim world. provokes it with its callousness and my people and for all progressive Rather, they are groping towards this weakness. In general, at present, there mankind in general?” I think that the goal, guided by the smell of fear, is still a chance to avoid a second honest answer is as follows: we will which is abundantly exuded from Holocaust (again, not only national try to help as much as we can. For Europe. The Arabs just follow the Holocaust, but also worldwide). example, I, as a journalist, will try, 21 Opinion

When Arabs kill other Arabs, the Euro-Arab PR agencies yawn in silence. It is unprofitable and uninteresting. The world media comes to life only when it comes to Jews

in an intellectual collision! It is good that Jews are more courageous in battle that the Arabs (who prevented the Palestinians from creating an army? They didn’t do that. They hire psychos to explode – yes, but to create an army – no.) It is bad that the Arabs were more cunning than Jews, because they beat them in a purely Jewish business – PR. Moreover, in addition to all the above-mentioned circumstances, there is one more, and an important one too: Arabs deal more with PR and do it in a more successful way than Israel. This partly helps them to gain the sympathy of the Christian world. Yes, this world is willing to listen to Arabs, and does not want to listen to the Jews. But what can we do about it? There is no other Europe for us to appeal to. So, we should try and persuade this one. Our strength is our presence in Europe, where our fate is now being determined! Do not give dry facts about Israeli victims – the world is not able to appreciate the restraint, the stamina and the dignity of the Jews. We should where and when I can, to say what with eyes fully open. We should see appeal to the emotions of stupid I think about the terror Israel faces not only the courage of the Israelis, western middlebrows using the same (although this topic is always difficult but also the big mistakes of the primitive pictures, which the Arabs to push). I will try to show this hated- government. And if we see that – we show. We must spare no money and by-all truth in the media. But we can should talk about it, we should help effort to erupt into the Western media, do more than that. We can look at with our unsolicited advice (maybe force it to show these pictures on the the situation from the outside, and someone will read it?). air. We must clearly explain that this our moral duty, with full sympathy There is only one piece of advice. It is is not about the “occupation”, and for Israel, is to look at the situation a shame that the Arabs beat the Jews not about the effort to keep someone 22 Opinion

else’s sand and stones, but it is about the fact that retreat ensures only one thing – another, more deadly war. We should emphasize simple propaganda thesis: there are a million Palestinians living in peace in Israel as Israeli citizens (and they are not joining the shahids!). But, the first Jew that will try to live in the Palestinian Authority will be torn to shreds. And someone is trying to present us as equals?! This is just one example. This should be the way – millimeter by millimeter, while forgetting about the natural disgust, try to overcome kilometers of blatant lies and demagoguery of the Europeans. The Jews are in a rare position – they don’t have to lie. They (unlike the Arabs) can speak the truth. Yet, they are silent. What is it – Jewish arrogance? Or perhaps impatience, or the inability to break through the blockade of propaganda? In any case, it is weakness, and it is intolerable during a time of war. Heck, there is a psychological warfare going on against Israel, one front – in Jerusalem, but the other one is in Europe and everywhere in the West! And now, this second front is more important! Yet, Israel has neglected the second front. Neglected – thus surrendered. Israel must force the Christian West to become its ally. The Jews should not run away from Europe to Israel, something that all Christians and Muslims wish for, in order for it to be easier to defeat them. The Jews should raise their voice at the places they live at! A propaganda war is as almost as These are a few obvious observations We must look for ways to reconcile dirty as a real war. And in the current that came into my head. I wish that even with such an anti-Semitic, situation it is no less important. Israel, they will be heard in Israel and in by definition, organization, as the and those of you who live in the Europe, in and America, and Christian church. It has also changed Christian world, must finally take even in the nest of anti-Semitism – in over the years, at least in part, when action on this front. Silence leads to my home country – Russia. Rome removed the blame for “the Holocaust! Do not run and do not be crucifixion of Christ” from the Jews. silent! 23 Middle East

Gaza Is Calling… Phone interview with Irina Helles – a resident of Gaza

by Victoria Martynova he connection got broken to Gaza. He is a family physician as apartment under fire. So, thank God, several times, and immediately well. The couple works as doctors we rejoice that we have somewhere Tafter dialing the digits 059, and they have three children. They to hide. a series of short beeps sounded. are considered a successful and a We heard that when Israel warned The very idea of calling Gaza these modern family. Gaza’s residents about an upcoming days, when a military operation is aerial bombing, Hamas urged them still going on, seemed hopeless. not to respond and not to leave their Eventually the call got through and The problem is that no homes, because it wished for as I heard the sounds of prayer issuing many bombing victims as possible. from a minaret, but then the call was one can reach an agreement Did the locals really disobey disconnected again. So the mobile with Hamas, neither Jews Hamas? connection is still operating in Gaza, When the Israeli operation in Gaza and the subscriber was still using nor Arabs began, people rushed out of their mobile services. I just had to be homes and ran as far as they could. patient and try again and again, but Where are you now, Irina? Did you A sea of people! We just grabbed the then my phone suddenly rang itself. really stay in your house and never children and left as we were, with “Hello, was that you calling me try to leave? nothing. We left by foot, we did not now?” a soft and very sad female Of course we left! Our house is ran or drive away. We did not have the voice sobbed through tears on the located in the east of Gaza; it was time to gather our things, no luggage, other end of the line. “It’s me, Irina in the area of heavy bombing. That not even bags. No possessions at all. It from Gaza. We have a humanitarian area and parts of northern Gaza were was terrifying to see all those people ceasefire now, so my husband and I bombed from the air, so we ran to running away. were able to hear your call.” friends in the western part of the city, Well, we also run into bomb shelters As it turned out, Irina did not realize and we are staying with them for the in our underwear or wrapped in a that I’m calling from Israel, and time being. We would be very happy bed sheet, so we’re in the same boat asked: “Where are you from?” When to rent an apartment in a part of town here. But tell me, why didn’t you she heard my answer: “From Tel that doesn’t get shot at, but these days leave? To Russia, for example? You Aviv,” she sighed sadly, but did not it is almost impossible, because such obviously had an opportunity to do hang up the phone. apartments are in great demand, many it, didn’t you? A few words about my interlocutor: wish for such places, but no one rents I’ll tell you plainly, the ones who left Irina Helles is one of more than them out. were preparing for this for a long 400 Russian women who married Is the rent for such an apartment time. They were only waiting for Palestinians residing in the . expensive? the moment when the border opened She is a family physician and has been We are both doctors, and we can (The Erez Crossing – V.M.). They living in Gaza for more than 14 years. afford it. A week, week and a half prepared the money and the luggage She studied at the Medical Institute rent is about $200. Residents from in advance. We, on the other hand, of Izhevsk, where she and her future the middle class are able to pay for were not planning to go anywhere. husband, Ahmed, met and fell in love. such housing, but it is sorely lacking. First, there is nowhere for us to run After their graduation, they moved And there is no time to look for an – after my mother had a stroke, I 24 Middle East

moved her from Vorkuta to Gaza, even an employment service; I had to and she lived with us until she passed Everyone remembers wait for about four years to get a job. away. And secondly, there is another how in 2007, after taking But today the situation is different; very important reason: for the past there are not enough doctors at all. two months we have not been paid power in Gaza, Hamas The ones who could – moved to our salary – neither my husband nor brutally dealt with all those quieter places. me. So all the cash that we had were What is the salary of a doctor in spent on food and living. Therefore, who were opposing it. Gaza? we have no one to run to and nothing They killed without I’m getting about $900-$1000 dollars to take with us. We just stayed here. per month. In Gaza’s terms it is a We had publications about Hamas hesitation very decent salary. Therefore, my closing all banks and ATMs, thus now and which is not under the attack husband and I can afford to purchase creating pressure on the local of the Israeli Air Force. Here, the expensive items. civilians and demonstrating its shops are open almost all day. Where Where do you get paid from? authority over Gaza. What is do the products come from? I do The salary is being transferred from happening with that? Was that not know. Some are from the old Ramallah directly into our bank financial problem solved? stocks, but there are, apparently, new account. We know that the salaries Only during the humanitarian truce deliveries as well. Anyway, I cannot of teachers and doctors are paid by the last Thursday, they announced that say that we are without food. There Palestinian Authority and not Hamas. Is there a difference in pay between men and women? No, my husband and I get equal pay and, as I said, we are considered highly paid specialists. However, Hamas defines our lives in a very rigid way, for example, right now because of the doctors’ shortage, we are forced to work six days a week, without adding even one shekel to our salary. Previously, we had a weekend off on Friday and Saturday, now there’s only Friday. This is by the order of the authorities, and no one resists. There are still not enough doctors in Gaza, so the service is extremely from 10 am to 3 pm we will be able are no hungry people. The problem is hard – we have to take up to 70-100 to get money. So my husband ran to that you cannot stick your nose out of patients per day. the bank and after a long queue we the house. We are afraid. What are your children doing these finally got some cash. Are you working? days? I have two girls of school age, and a What about the food? In the No, our clinic is closed now due to the boy in kindergarten. They sit at home materials published in the Western current situation, although, of course, with us, playing with a mobile phone press, it is said that the shops in there are a lot of patients. My husband and a tablet. Gaza are closed, it is impossible to tried to go to work on Saturday, to buy anything and the most basic see the patients, but he failed to reach How do people of your social status, foods are constantly lacking. the clinic, the traffic was completely that is, Palestinian intellectuals, That’s not true. We have all the blocked off. One can only imagine treat Hamas? necessary products, including fresh what will happen when we get back Everyone hates Hamas and everyone products, even fresh meat. I’m talking to work. So many sick people! When is afraid of it. It brought a tough about the area where we are staying we came here from Russia, there was order with it. Everyone remembers 25 Middle East

how in 2007, after taking power in actually take the power into his own Gaza, Hamas brutally dealt with all Everyone hates Hamas hands. He is weak. Despite the fact those who were opposing it. They and everyone is afraid of that the current situation does not killed without hesitation. My husband favor Hamas, we do not place big belongs to the Helles family. It is it. It brought a tough order hope in Abu Mazen. Though many a very well-known and respected with it. Hamas uses people people are very tired and would like family, who always supported Abu to see this nightmare finally end. Mazen. During the coup, all of my as cover Yes, everyone knows about it, but How about the Egyptian mediators husband’s relatives supported the nobody can do anything. Hamas does in Gaza? Fatah. In the battles with Hamas, not ask the locals where to place the The problem is that no one can reach 18 people from the family were missiles. They make a decision, and an agreement with Hamas, neither killed, and 40 – injured. My husband missiles are placed anywhere, even Jews nor Arabs. was jailed, but he told them that he in homes, or at hospitals. Resistance is a citizen of Russia, and he was At this point, there was a lot of static is impossible. released without any proceedings. interference with the phone call. They decided that they better not to The international community “I’m very sorry Vika,” said Irina, get involved with a Russian citizen. is trying to restore the power of “the humanitarian pause will be over So we also have personal motives in Palestinian Authority in Gaza, soon, and the connection will be relation to Hamas. But, something specifically – of Mahmoud Abbas. disconnected. And I still have a few else is more important now – Hamas How do residents of Gaza feel about more phone calls to make. All the uses people as cover. such information? best!” And people know about this? We do not believe that Abbas can The Diplomatic Club and ICE PEAKS We are pleased to invite you and your children to participate in Diplomatic Hockey & Figure Skating League

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26 Obituary

Palestinians around the World Mourn the Loss of Poet and Activist Samih al-Qasim

several times for his political activ- ities that have involved advocacy for Palestinian rights and dissent against government policies. He joined the Israeli Communist party Hadash in 1967 and was detained along with other members of the party at the outbreak of the Six-Day War. His first book was published when he was just eighteen, and over the decades he has produced a body of work that is as varied and innovative as it is large. Al-Qasim’s poetry was influenced by two primary periods of his life: before and after the Six- Day War. He has published several volumes and collections of poetry.

n August 19th 2014, one of memories were of the events during the prominent Palestinian the Nakba (the displacement of I would have liked to tell you Opoets and a major figure in 700,000 Palestinians). He was one The story of a nightingale that died. the Arab world, Samih al-Qasim, lost of the first in the Druze community his battle with cancer at the age of 75. to refuse to serve in the Israeli army, I would have liked to tell you His death is a major loss to the world an action that his son also took. The story... of Arabic literature and poetry. Al-Qasim went to high school in Had they not slit my lips. Samih Al-Qasim was well known Nazareth and later worked as a for his resistance poetry, in which journalist in Haifa running the During his life he faced imprisonment, he defended the rights and identity Arabesque Press and the Folk Arts house arrest, censorship of his works of the Palestinian Arab minority in Centre as well as being the editor of and harassment from the Shin Bet Israel. He was born in 1939, in the the Arabic language newspaper ‘Kul (Israeli secret service). One of his city of az-Zarqa in northern Jordan, al-Arab’. most famous poems “Slit Lips” is to a Druze family from the Al-Qasim claimed that the an example of the censorship and region. Al-Qasim’s family chose pan-Arab ideology of Nasserism im- pressure Al-Qasim felt as a Palestinian to remain in their home in 1948 pressed him during the nationalist writer in Israel. and he said that some of his earliest post-1948 era. He has been jailed

27 Luxury

inauguration of the new Rolex Euro-Asia Ltd. Boutique in Jerusalem. This is a great occasion for Euro-Asia and marks our loyalty to the values of the Rolex inaugurates brand,” said Danny Peiser, president of Euro-Asia Ltd. “We are very proud to be expanding the Rolex presence and to have represented the brand for Rolex boutique nearly 40 years, upholding the finest standards of quality and service.” The venture continues an enduring in Jerusalem relationship of nearly four decades between the retailer and the Swiss watchmaker, celebrating their shared uro-Asia Ltd, one of Israel’s the neighbourhood of Mamilla, in passion for precision, reliability, foremost watch retailers, and the heart of Jerusalem, at the point performance and the highest standards ERolex announced today the where the Old City and modern of service. Euro-Asia provides a first- inauguration of a new boutique in Jerusalem meet. A local, national class experience coupled with quality Jerusalem devoted exclusively to the and international centre of attraction, servicing at both its Tel Aviv and Rolex brand. Previously a multi-brand this ideal setting is a tribute to the Jerusalem boutique locations, as well store, the shop has been transformed timelessness and perfection of the as via its branch shops in Eilat and into an official Rolex Boutique. The leading Swiss watch brand. Raanana, and its network of partner store’s new premises are located in “We are delighted to celebrate the stores throughout Israel.

28 Luxury

Entering the World Of Rolex The 24-square-metre boutique on Alrov Mamilla offers an intimate staging to discover an impressive selection of Rolex wristwatches, particularly the self-winding, mechanical Oyster Perpetual models, which form the pillar of a collection of legendary timepieces that combine tradition, prestige and technology with precision, peerless reliability and style suited to every occasion. Upon entering the boutique, the visitor is enveloped in an atmosphere inspired by water and the sea, evoking the essence of Rolex, known worldwide as the inventor, in 1926, of the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch. A wall of illuminated, laser-etched Aqua glass draws the eye The father and son eventually opened innovations, such as the Oyster, the with its gently undulating wave motif, their own watch repair shop that first waterproof wristwatch, launched and a specially designed salesroom gradually grew into a company in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self- provides a bespoke service to handling imports of watches from winding mechanism, introduced in clientele seeking a highend shopping and Switzerland. Horst 1931. Rolex has registered over 400 experience. The gold-effect Rolex Peiser emigrated to Israel in 1971 and patents in the course of its history. crown, iconic symbol of the brand, established Euro-Asia the following A truly integrated manufacturing decorates the entrance, the walls, year. In 1975, Rolex granted the company, Rolex designs, develops the display cases and the front-door retailer the exclusive right to import and produces in-house all the essential handle. and distribute the brand in Israel and, components of its watches, from The new location is clad in elegant shortly afterwards, the Rolex after- the casting of the gold alloys to the materials with refined furnishings sales service workshop was opened. machining, crafting, assembly and – polished walnut wood cabinets, Since 2000, Danny Peiser, Horst’s finishing of the movement, case, dial bronze detailing, floors in Crema son, has run the company, marking and bracelet. Rolex is also actively Marfil marble from Andalusia and three generations of the Peiser family involved in supporting the arts, cream-coloured leather tabletops who have contributed to Euro-Asia’s sports, the spirit of enterprise, and and panelling – setting the scene growth and success. the environment through a broad for a customer experience that is as palette of sponsoring activities as well luxurious as the watches on display. About Rolex as philanthropic programmes. Leading brand of the Swiss watch About Euro -Asia Ltd. industry, Rolex, headquartered Official websites: Euro-Asia Ltd traces its origins to in Geneva, enjoys an unrivalled www.rolex.com Bolivia, where it was founded in reputation for quality and expertise www.euro-asia.co.il 1947 by the Peiser family who had the world over. Its Oyster watches, fled Germany in 1939 on the eve all certified as chronometers for their For further information and for of World War II. Before that, Fritz precision, are symbols of excellence, visuals of the boutique, please contact: Peiser, the family’s patriarch, sent his performance and prestige. Pioneer in Eyal Zamir 14-year-old son Horst to Bolivia to the development of the wristwatch as [email protected] stay with a Jewish-German immigrant early as 1905, the brand is at the origin Tel: +972-(0)3-6857520 who was a watchmaker and optician. of numerous major watchmaking 29 Entertainment

the ice rink is open from the early morning until late at night. For parents, it is an excellent option for a recreational activity for the entire family. For those who have little or no experience in ice skating – trial lessons are available. Alex Zeidner, coach, international judge and director of the ‘Ice Peaks’ Holon ice hall, recommends ice skating for many reasons, including: Climate: the temperature of the ice is around 18-20 degrees Celsius, ensuring a pleasant cool break during the hot and humid Israeli summer. Diet: 45 minutes of ice skating will burn the same amount of calories as Ice Peaks running or walking fast. Balance: ice skating contributes to freezing fun in hot the development and improvement of coordination, stability and balance. summer days Aerobics: ice skating improves cardiovascular endurance along with rozen lakes on which one can children of 5 years and up, teens and strength and speed training. skate and blades attached to adults. In addition, it is possible to soles of shoes are a distant create specific training groups or take Games: besides skating for fun, F there are many ice skating sports. dream in the Israeli reality. The private lessons. Ice hockey, which is a social game, local summer is hot and humid. The During the day, the rink serves the joggers are dripping with sweat, and improves strength, speed and social local hockey teams and professional skills, and is also recommended for the cyclists wake up at unreasonable figure skating athletes. In the hours in order to finish their ride children with hyperactivity and a afternoon and evening it is open to tendency to aggression. before the danger of dehydration the public for fun and entertainment. becomes real. The solution for those On weekends and school holidays Creativity: in addition to the above who wish to continue their sporting mentioned advantages, figure skating activities during the summer is ice is also good for the development of skating, and it is possible at the ‘Ice movement and creativity. Peaks’ ice skating rink, located at The Holon ice rink also has the best the entrance to the city of Holon, in selection of sporting equipment and Peres Park. clothing in Israel, intended for ice ‘Ice Peaks’ is a professional ice arena skating and hockey. The store offers that offers its visitors a half-Olympic a variety of skates for figure skating size sheet of real ice. Those who wish and hockey, helmets, face and neck to skate with professional guidance protectors, gloves, protective pads, are invited to attend the figure skating hockey sticks and pucks. or ice hockey classes with instructors 1 Mifratz Shlomo st., Peres Park, and coaches certified by the Israeli Holon, phone 03-5323008 Sport Authority. Opening hours: Sun-Thu 15:00-20:00, The classes take place in the afternoon Fri-Sat, holidays and vacations and evening, and are held in small 09:00-24:00 groups, made up according to age: 30

Health

Legalization of Marijuana in Israel?

costs associated with incarcerating convicted users and dealers can also potentially fall, freeing tax revenues for other purposes. However, lawmakers must consider whether decriminalizing marijuana use will lead to more serious drug abuse or create a decrease in worker productivity. In Israel, a country with notable security issues, there is a concern that increased accessibility to marijuana could lead to lower military Severe pain, cancer, preparedness, yet it could also allow glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, severe some of the people to serve; people egalization of marijuana nausea, seizures and muscle who may have previously been is a misnomer. Rather, the prevented by ailments that marijuana Ldecriminalizing of marijuana spasms are some of the more successfully treats. may be more accurate. Generally, common ailments where Recent passage of legislation it’s not legal anywhere. Despite in the states of Washington (with the fact that legalization is a very marijuana has been found a population close to Israel’s of liberal policy, it does not end the 7 million) and Colorado (about 5 ban completely: it redefines and effective by patients and million) in the USA regulates the regulates marijuana in a manner that health care providers recreational use of marijuana. It has allows recreational use by adults provided recent examples of what the (similar to laws regulating the use of don’t follow whatever new laws are transition might look like for others alcohol in most countries) or the use put in place. considering such policies. California of marijuana for medicinal purposes. The legalization of marijuana (for (the 7th largest economy in the world Medicinal use of marijuana can either recreational or medical use) with an estimated population of 38 pave the way for the easing of is revisited or at least reflected on million) and 21 other US states have regulations concerning recreational internationally each time laws are been implementing the medical use use. It removes the traditional stigma liberalized in one country. Lawmakers of marijuana. associated with marijuana due to the and citizens elsewhere reassess On a national level, the federal fact that in many societies, it has whether the laws in their own country government in the United States has been considered an illegal drug. In are “just,” and whether existing been caught in a bit of a quandary. most places that have decriminalized policies are delivering the results Individual states have enacted policies marijuana use for either recreational intended. There are profits to be that conflict with each other and with or medicinal uses, there still remain made by taxing marijuana for either national policies. Furthermore, these criminal penalties for people who recreational or medicinal use. The new laws have undermined the resolve 32 Health

that other countries may have had for many might turn to “self-medicating” what has generally been perceived There are profits to be and avoid the bureaucracy, as the as a mostly US-led international recreational plant becomes more war on drugs. Many countries had made by taxing marijuana readily available with less wait and enacted tougher policies on marijuana for either recreational or red tape. Legalization and other “illicit” drugs as a way Rates in Israel are predicted to climb of appeasing American sentiments medicinal use. The costs though, as more doctors become and policies, often as part of foreign associated with incarcerating comfortable prescribing marijuana of Marijuana aid agreements. Meanwhile, the and more potential patients, who may continues to provide a convicted users and dealers have never considered marijuana, baseline example, for better or worse, can also potentially fall, become more comfortable asking in Israel? depending how data is interpreted, for it. Approval by health care of how recreational use of marijuana freeing tax revenues for providers has been reported as can be regulated in a Western country. quite slow, possibly to discourage Israel and other nations have to weigh other purposes for themselves the costs and benefits of their current or potentially new policies. Marijuana, hashish, opiates, cocaine, and similar products all continue to be illegal drugs for recreational use in Israel. In many ways, the laws in Israel may not differentiate between these drugs. However, the medical use of marijuana and hashish is not punishable under law if approved by a person or body appointed by the Ministry of Health. In fact, Israel has been one of the leaders for research involving marijuana for a wide range of medical ailments. Although, legislative and popular demand for recreational use of marijuana in Israel has seemingly gathered little momentum this far, potencies in order to better prescribe people applying for marijuana for research concerning the practical “what pot is best for what patient.” recreational use under the guise applications of marijuana treating a Since 2009 when a locally produced of medicinal use, and only about wide range of aliments has gone on documentary on medicinal marijuana 20 Israeli doctors are currently in Israel for decades, dating back to use aired on television, the amount of prescribing marijuana. when the psychoactive ingredient patients being prescribed marijuana in In Israel, medical marijuana has been in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, Israel has grown dramatically from used to treat a wide range of issues better known by its abbreviation, a few hundred to about 14,000. Yet and some seem more universally THC, was first synthesized in Israel these numbers lag significantly behind accepted as effective applications. in the 1960’s at the Weizmann rates in US states where medical Severe pain, cancer, glaucoma, Institute of Science by Prof. Raphael marijuana use is legal. In Colorado, HIV/AIDS, severe nausea, seizures Mechoulam and his associate Yechiel for instance, with a smaller population and muscle spasms are some of Gaoni. Research has continued at than Israel, over 115,000 patients the more common ailments where Israeli universities to isolate other had been registered with that state’s marijuana has been found effective active ingredients in marijuana and patient registry before this year’s by patients and health care providers. their benefits, and farms in Israel have passage of legal recreational use. It is important to note, that marijuana been cultivating strains with varying Time will tell if those numbers drop as is only a treatment and not a cure 33 Health

such attacks lessened to just a few. These are just a few examples of how people, whose ailments caused seemingly insurmountable obstacles to leading productive lives, have had new opportunities opened to them through the use of medicinal marijuana. It is slightly ironic that while Israel has been leading the way for half a century on the medicinal uses of marijuana, it’s just starting to catch up on its implementation for its own citizens. While pro-Israel activists herald the successes Israel has achieved as a “Start-up Nation” in fields such as high-tech, bio-tech, military tech, agricultural technology and a host of other scientific advances, few have bragged about how Israel has been on the vanguard of researching marijuana’s uses as a medicine. When Israel’s leaders can its researchers’ successes in the field of medicinal marijuana, then Israeli citizens will more likely benefit from the research in greater numbers like might not be the easiest symptoms to other medicinal users have overseas. Potentially, Israel in the future Even children verify the veracity of, yet there is also a strain of marijuana, Avideckel, that won’t only be attracting patients for undergoing chemotherapy in has high counts of CBD, cannabidiol, “medical tourism” but marijuana another active ingredient that is noted related treatments as well. Possibly, Israel have benefited from for its anti-inflammatory properties the only obstacle is the stigma candy and cookies laced with that could be prescribed more readily marijuana carries from its past. The without fear that patients were faking stigma should disappear over time, marijuana, because weight symptoms in order to get high. as more doctors and patients witness successful treatment regimens. In loss due to a loss of appetite is Even children undergoing a small country like Israel, 14,000 a serious concern chemotherapy in Israel have benefited success stories can have a tremendous from candy and cookies laced with impact. It seems that it is only a for these ailments; it only relieves marijuana, because weight loss due to symptoms or effects of an ailment. matter of time before policy makers a loss of appetite is a serious concern. are as comfortable with the concept Whether taken in pills, cookies, oil Elderly patients, whose mobility had or cigarettes, the relief marijuana of marijuana treatments as people that them restricted to wheel chairs, can are treated with it. provides of often agonizing and now participate in physical activities debilitating symptoms can seem like including exercise classes. Victims a miracle elixir, when nothing else has of seizures and tremors, who might provided relief. suffer life threatening or humiliating Ailments like muscle spasms, severe seizures and tremors – sometimes pain, nausea and loss of appetite hundreds in a day – have seen 34 Rubrika

La Fête /the Banquet/ the concept behind this daring, avant-garde line is “more is more” – a notion that is conquering the whole world. Opulent cocktail rings with a large central gem stone and graduated side stones provide a festive look that radiates status and style. these are the rings that parade along the world’s red carpets. Made of yellow, red or white 18-karat gold, with a large gemstone at the center inset into diamonds and/or sapphires of different colors, what makes this series special is the mix of materials, shapes and the special polish of the precious and semi-precious stones combined with imaginative, creative artistry Price between $ 11,900 to $ 38,40

43900 nis 7700 nis 19900 nis

rolex show tel aviv rolex show eilat rolex show Jerusalem 36 Ibn gvirol st. royal garden Bulivar Mamila road tel: 03-9685222 tel : 08-6337002 tel: 02-5663432 Fax: 03-9685220 Fax: 08-6337006 Fax: 02-5663575 sun - thu: 10:00-19:00, sun-thu: 10:00-22:00, sun-thu: 10:00-23:00, Fri: 10:00-14:00 Fri:10:00-15:00, sat: 18:00-22:00 Fri:9:30-15:00, sat:19:00-23:0035 Culture

Tony Bennett: “I left my heart in Tel Aviv” September 14, 2014

The legendary American singer, Tony Bennett, is heading to Tel Aviv for a concert in September 2014. Bennett, whose career, Kylie Minogue spans over 60 years, is in Tel Aviv one of the most well recognized musicians November 2014 in history, having won Kylie Minogue is expected to perform in a concert 17 Grammy Awards in Tel Aviv in November 2014, in what will be her and two Emmy first concert in Israel. Minogue is one of the biggest Awards, while selling names in pop music over the past twenty years, over 50 million records with countless hit singles in the UK and Europe, worldwide. Among including the iconic “Can’t Get You Out of My Bennett’s most iconic Head”, selling over 70 million records during her songs are “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “Body and Soul,” career. She has been awarded multiple ARIA and and “Rags to Riches.” Tony Bennett will perform at Tel Aviv’s Brit Awards and a Grammy Award. Minogue will Bronfman Auditorium on September 14, 2014. likely give at least one show at Tel Aviv’s Nokia Arena. Liza Minnelli in Tel Aviv Boom Box Festival November 2014 in Hadera September 23-24, 2014 Liza Minnelli, the legendary actress, singer and performer is expected to give a concert in Tel Aviv, Israel, in November A unique sunset to sunrise festival will happen 2014 as part of her in September 2014 in Hadera, about 30 km north European Tour. Liza of Tel Aviv. The festival will take place at the Minnelli’s long and Hadera River Park, next to the beach in the city, impressive career spans and the line-up will include many of Israel’s most over 60 years, and has exciting artists including , Balkan Beat seen her be involved in Box, Beri Sakharov, , Mercedes some of the most iconic Bend, , Mosh Ben Ari, Avraham Tal, films, performances and Orchestra, and Karolina. The Boom Box soundtracks in history, Festival will take place from sunset on September most famously for her 23, 2014, until sunrise the next morning. film role as floundering nightclub singer Sally Bowles in the 1972 musical “Cabaret,” and was awarded an Academy Award for best actress. The film won a total of eight awards. Last performing in Israel in 2011, Liza Minnelli is expected to return to Tel Aviv for a concert in November 2014 at either the Tel Aviv Cultural Hall or Nokia Arena. 36 RubrikaCulture

Lady Gaga Richard Clayderman in Tel Aviv in Israel September 13, 2014 September 11-14, 2014

The musical Legendary pianist Richard sensation Lady Clayderman will be performing Gaga is coming in Israel in September 2014. to perform in Is- Clayderman has given many rael in September concerts in Israel, most 2014. Lady Gaga, recently two years ago. The whose hit singles French musician, whose career include “Born has spanned over four decades, This Way,” “Ju- includes record sales of over das,” and “The 100 million albums in 57 Edge of Glory” different countries, with 290 is expected to give one concert in Tel Aviv as part gold and 90 platinum discs. His of the world tour for her new album ARTPOP. greatest hits include “Ballade This will be the second visit to Israel for Lady pour Adeline”, “Don’t Cry for Me ”, as well as themes Gaga, who last performed before her fans here from West Side Story, Love Story and Schindler’s List, all of in 2009. Lady Gaga’s Tel Aviv concert will take which will feature in his concerts in Israel. place on September 13, 2014 at Park Hayarkon. Richard Clayderman will perform in Tel Aviv at the Performing Arts Center on September 11, 2014, in Beer Sheva on September 12, in Haifa on September 13, and in Jerusalem on September 14.

International Hot Air Balloon Festival October 13-15, 2014

An international hot air balloon festival will take place in Israel during October 2014, at two locations in the country – at Park Maayan Harod near Mount Gilboa in the Galilee, and at Park Eshkol, in the northern Negev. The festivals bring hot air balloons to Israel from around the world and offer fun and family friendly activities in some of the most picturesque parts of Israel. Mount Gilboa is one of the most beautiful spots in Israel, overlooking the flat plains of the in the Lower Galilee where this festival will take place. This unique setting, a landscape of beautiful fields and reservoirs, amid a striking mountainous backdrop, makes the Gilboa International Balloon Festival something really special. The festival will bring hot air balloons and their pilots from around the world, as well as the Galilee region (where hot air balloon rides are a popular activity.) The festival will be family friendly with food stands, shows, and concerts by Israeli singers. The Gilboa section of the balloon festival will take place on October 13, 2014 starting at 10:00 and ending in the late afternoon on October 14 in Ma’ayan Harod National Park. There will be camping with more displays on the second day, before the balloons leave in the afternoon of October 14. On the evening of October 14 and the morning of October 15, the balloons which were at Gilboa earlier in the day, will arrive at Park Eshkol in the northern Negev region (about 1 hour from Tel Aviv). The balloons will arrive the evening of October 14, and there will be a ‘glowing’ spectacular as the sun sets over the beautiful landscape. The following morning, from 5am, the balloons will take off at dawn in what will be a spectacular sight over the northern Negev desert landscape. 37 Culture

Jerusalem Sacred Music Festival September 9-12, 2014 The Jerusalem Sacred Music Festival is a four day music extravaganza set to take place in September 2014 across Jerusalem. This is a world-class music festival in the heart of the holiest city on earth! In this unique setting, diverse artists from a huge array of different traditions from across the globe, will come together to show and explore what makes ‘sacred’ music so special! For millennia, words, prayers, prophecies and expressions of longing have been directed toward Jerusalem every day, by millions of people of different faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs. The Jerusalem Sacred Music Festival joins this tradition and seeks to broaden it. For 4 days, musicians and artists from an array of backgrounds from across the globe, and across the musical spectrum, will come together to rejoice in this concept of “sanctity” and bring to it new relevance. The festival will feature 19 events that will take place from September 9-12, 2014. LIVE MUSIC VENUES TEL AVIV „„The Zone (Ha Ezor) – 13 HaRechev st. 054-4467240 „„Anna Loulou – 1 HaPninim st., Jaffa, 03-5607585 www.annalouloubar.com JERUSALEM „„Abraxas – 40 Lilienblum st. 03-5104435 „„Avram Bar – 97 Yaffo st. 077-4450701 www.abraxas.co.il www.avrambar.co.il „„The Barby – 52 Kibbutz Galuyot st. 03-5188123 „„Beit Avi Chai – 44 King George st. 02-621-5300 www.barby.co.il www.bac.org.il „„Cafe Bialik – 2 Bialik st. 03-6200832 „„Gerard Behar Center – 11 Bezalel st. 02-6251139 www.cafebialik.co.il gerard-behar.jerusalem.muni.il „„Gagarin - 46 Derech Salame, 054-9079838 „„Yellow Submarine – 13 Harechavim st., Talpiyot „„Hoodna – 13 Abarbanel st. 03-5184558 Industrial Area, 02-6794040 „„Levontin 7 – 7 Levontin st. 03-5605084 www.yellowsubmarine.org.il www.levontin7.com HAIFA „„The Ozen Bar – 48 King George st. 03-6215210 „„The Beat – 124 Sderot HaNassi Blvd. 04-8107107 www.ozenbar.com www.facebook.com/beat.co.il „„Pasáž – 94 Allenby st. 077-332-3118 „„Syncopa – Bar – 5 Kiat st. (corner of Natanzon), www.facebook.com/PasazAllenby 053-8094542 „„Radio E.P.G.B. – 7 Shadal st. 03-560-3636 www.2eat.co.il/syncopa www.facebook.com/radioepgb „„Rothschild 12 – 12 Rothschild Blvd, 03-5106430 www.rothschild12.co.il „„Doug ‘N Tony – 4 Aleph HaTzoran, Industrial Area „„Shablul – Port of Tel Aviv, Hangar 13, North , 054-7486464 03-5461891 www.facebook.com/doug.and.tony www.shabluljazz.com BEER SHEVA „„Shapagat – 43 Nahalat Binyamin, 03-5601758 „„Ashan Hazman – 17/2 Anilevich st. 077-7644218 www.facebook.com/shpagatlv www.ashanhazman.co.il „„Tmuna Theatre – 8 Soncino st. 03-5611211 www.tmu-na.org.il/ MITZPE RAMON „„Tsuzamen – 25 Lilienblum st. 050-8648758 „„Mitzpe Ramon Jazz Club – 8\2 Har Boker st., tsuzamenbar.com Darkei Habsamim, Mitzpe Ramon, 050-5265628 jazzramon.wordpress.com 38

C for yourself

The new C-Class סמסונוב נטלר גליקמן נטלר סמסונוב

From 295,000*NIS

In all showrooms For details: 03-9153714 Come and see it up close in our new website: www.mercedes-benz.co.il

*Price applies to the AVG C180. Payment does not include licensing fees nor anti-theft system. Picture for illustration only. E&OE

Fuel consumption in liters per 100 km* Emissions from Motor Vehicles** Emissions Level Model

Minimum 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Maximum13 14 15 4 4.6-5.0 Extra Urban 6.8-7.4 Urban C180 Emissions Emissions 4 4.4-4.7 Extra Urban 6.8-7.2 Urban C200 *Manufacturer's data in accordance with laboratory tests European directive EC715/2007 **The emission level is calculated according to the Clean Air Regulations (Disclosure of Air Pollution from Motorized Vehicles in 4 4.4-4.7 Extra Urban 6.8-7.2 Urban C250 Advertisements), 2009