QUARTERLY FREE WWW.AQSA.ORG.UK ISSUE 49 APRIL 2012

Travel to Palestine An unforgettable journey AQSAFriends of Al-Aqsa newspaperNEWS since 1997 By Tazeem • Page 17 Hunger striker ICC denies Gaza victims An open letter from Baroness Hana Shalabi Justice Jenny Tonge deported to Gaza Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

evidence that the danger immigration appeal tribu- the materials, the appeal perceived by the Secre- nal ruling that has cleared judge has ruled that there Victory! tary of State is perceived him of accusations of anti- was no merit in the ac- by any of the other coun- Semitism. cusations levelled against tries where the appellant The Vice-President of Shaykh Raed in relation to Shaykh Raed [Raed Salah] has been, the Upper Tribunal in the a supposedly anti-Semitic nor, save for the very tardy Immigration and Asylum poem written by him. The Salah wins indictment, is there any Chamber ruled that the judge concluded that the appeal against evidence that even Israel Home Secretary’s attempts Home Secretary “was misled sees the danger that the to deport Shaykh Raed Salah as to the terms of the poem deportation Secretary of State sees.” last year were unfounded. written by the appellant, a Shaykh Raed Salah ar- The Home Secretary was matter on which there is no on all grounds rived in Britain on 20th advised by pressure groups room for dispute”. He noted June 2011, and instead of that Shaykh Raed should be that the advice the Home a ten day speaking tour, he excluded from Britain on the Secretary received from her In a damning verdict was subjected to imprison- grounds that he was an anti- own advisors was that the against the actions of the ment, a deportation order Semite. Flawed ‘evidences’ case against Shaykh Raed Home Secretary, a senior ap- and numerous court cases. were provided to back this peal judge ruled on 7 April 10 months later, he can up. 2012 that: “There is no claim victory following an On closer inspection of wasContinued ‘finely on balanced’ page 3 and Stop the destruction of Jerusalem

► A group of Government to take action campaigners handed in to prevent the destruction a petition to 10 of Palestinian Life in Jeru- Downing Street asking salem. the government to take Amos Trust, Architects action to prevent the & Planners for Justice in Pal- destruction of estine, Friends of Al Aqsa, Palestinian life in Friends of Sabeel, Jews for Jerusalem. (right) Justice for Palestinians, Lawyers for Palestinian Hu- A petition supported by man Rights and Pax Christi a range of faith organisa- have all supported the tions and campaigns was petition. handed into 10 Downing Street on Friday 30th March See page 4 2012. It called on the UK Continued on page 4

Living on the edge Bedouins denied water Review - Page Eight Special Feature Recipe in Gaza Administrative Inside... Detention

2 14 Page 3 Page 6 Page 10

SPONSORED WALK 2012 • SUNDAY 6TH MAY • PEAK DISTRICT - DERBYSHIRE • REGISTER TODAY • WWW.FOA.ORG.UK/WALK

0161 225 0225 DONATE humanappeal.org.uk SYRIA NOW Emergency Appeal 02 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

INSIDE PALESTINE

Hunger striker Hana Peaceful protestors attacked by occupation force dogs Israeli occupation forces agely attacked a Palestin- Shalabi deported to Gaza are known for using brute ian protesters. It sank its teeth into the arm of Ahmad unarmed protestors. This Shtewi and held tight for forcehas been and extended live fire to against using several minutes, even after dogs to attack the peace- ful protestors. In a protest Ahmad was then arrested at Kufr Qaddoum, Israeli itrather was called than off being by alloweda soldier. soldiers released military to seek medical help for his hounds, and one dog sav- injuries.

Israeli troops kill Palestinian at Al-Aqsa protest In late February, ten- and stun grenades. sions around the sacred 24 year old protestor, Al-Aqsa Compound in Je- Tala’t Abdul Rahman Diab rusalem were high. Earlier Ramiya was killed when he in the month, Israeli troops was shot in the chest. Oth- and illegal settlers breached ers tried to get him medi- the compound clashing cal attention as quickly as with Palestinian worship- possible, however, he was pers. On Friday 24th Feb- pronounced dead when he ruary, following the Jum- arrived at hospital. muah prayers, Palestinians 15 other protestors gathered to protest against were injured by the shock- the threats to the holy site ing assault, including two 1 and the safety of Palestin- year olds who were passing ian worshippers at the the area with their parents al-Ram village in the north and inhaled smoke from of Jerusalem. Israeli police the grenades. A further four responded by attacking the Palestinians were arrested. small crowd with tear gas

Jerusalem homes demolished After 43 days of hunger reported, as she was ar- continuing punishment, she Prisoners’ rights’ group Ad- strike, Hana Shalabi was rested and detained with- will be isolated in Gaza for ameer believe that Hana’s released from administra- out charge by Israel for over the next three years. Dur- expulsion from the West tive detention by Israel and two years. She was released ing this time, her family and Bank and her transfer to deported to the Gaza Strip and quickly re-arrested this relatives will not be able to Gaza violate Article 49 of the on 1st April 2012. She will year. Her hunger strike was a see her. Fourth Geneva Convention, remain in Gaza for three desperate plea for interven- which prohibits forcible years before being allowed tion, and the international transfers and deportations to return to her home and attention the case received did Duringnot allow her Hana final todays meet in of protected persons. Thus, family in the West Bank. left Israel with no choice detention,her lawyers, Israeli any officials rights Israel’s actions amount to a Hana’s case was widely but to free her. However, as groups or her family. The war crime.

Politicians in the West not built to operate for the have stopped focusing on amount of time we need the situation in Gaze but its them. Generators are made Palestinian families have children. The families had Living on the residents continue to live in for brief emergencies, of a faced more misery from lived in these homes since a pit of despair. Everyone few hours, only. Besides that, home demolitions in Jerusa- 1992, but received demoli- our generators and other lem’s Arab neighbourhoods. tion orders in 2011 under the Strip, however, the hos- machines are damaged and edge in Gaza In Anata town, seven homes the guise of contravention pitals are struggling most broken by the power be- is affected by the closure of of building regulations. ing cut and returning con- 40 people, most of whom are electricity crisis means that were demolished effecting significantly.the right to health, The fueland sub- and in power levels is harmful sequently, the right to life, is stantly.to our equipment.Also, the fluctuation Now we being threatened on a daily lack the spare parts and oils basis. to maintain the machines.” Watan TV and The Director of Engi- Since January 2011, the neering and Maintenance in Gaza Strip has been relying Gaza’s al-Shifa Hospital, Bas- largely on fuel being smug- Al-Quds TV sam Ali al-Hamadeen, deals gled across from Egypt. The with the consequences of supply is intermittent and the fuel and electricity cri- has meant that Gaza’s only premises raided sis every day. “The patients power station is shut down Israeli occupation forces raided the premises of Watan most at risk are those in the when there is no fuel. As TV and Al-Quds Educational TV at the end of February, intensive care unit, the ba- a result, large parts of the bies in the nurseries, kidney Gaza Strip only have elec- dialysis patients and those tricity for 6 hours of the day. to silence the Palestinian media from reporting Israeli in need of surgery. This has a massive impact causing property damage and confiscating transmitters, crimes against the Palestinian people. The systematic “In the past two weeks on daily life and Gaza lives computers, files and tapes. This was seen as an attempt nature of the assault on both stations suggests that generators of 6 basic health in a continuous state of Israel is implementing a new policy against Palestinian clinics across the Gaza Strip emergency. media outlets. broke. They are simply ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 03

INSIDE PALESTINE

ICC denies Gaza victims justice Israel bombs Gaza in The international Crimi- decision opens the ICC to Israel and the Palestinians. nal Court (ICC) has stated accusations of political bias The decision of the that it cannot hear cases and is inconsistent with the prosecutor means that the ‘planned escalation’ attack against Israel for war crimes independence of the ICC. ICC judges will not hear committed during the 2008- It also breaches the Rome the cases and the victims 2009 Operation Cast Lead Statute which clearly states will be denied justice. The attack on the Gaza Strip. that such matters should be decision was made despite The prosecutor’s decision considered by the institu- the Palestinian Authority hinged on a technicality, tion’s judges.” 1,400 Pales- accepting the jurisdiction of namely that “it cannot con- tinians were killed during the ICC. Israel is not a party sider allegations of crimes the attack, the majority of to the Rome Statute which committed during the con- whom were innocent civil- set up the ICC, but for pros- ians. ecutions to be brought; only bodies or ICC states parties - one party is required to rec- flictdetermine unless that the therelevant Palestin- UN cially recognized as a state, ognise the ICC’s jurisdiction. ian Authority is a state.” althoughPalestine it is has not observeryet offi The move by the Palestinian Amnesty International status at the UN and was ac- Authority should have been has openly condemned the cepted as a state by UNESCO decision by the ICC, and in recent months. However, of recognition by the ICC is some states around the sufficientseen as politically for this. motivated The lack of Amnesty International’s globe have moved towards and therefore undermining MarekInternational Marczyński, Justice HeadCam- recognition despite the lack the entire institution. paign, said; “This dangerous of a peace accord between Bedouins denied water Palestinians living in desert villages in Israel are being denied water sup- plies by the state despite In early March, Israel it was planned well in ad- display the capabilities an Israeli High Court Order launched a number of air vance, making it a ‘planned of Israel’s ‘Iron Dome’ in 2011 stating that water strikes on the Gaza Strip. escalation’. Little attention defense system, and thus, was a constitutional right - was paid to the deaths of extend the budget for it. It and the villages must be ometers from the nearest hair al-Qaisi, the Secretary these Palestinians by the was also intended to draw supplied. source of clean water. “There further, however, and no at- General of the Popular Re- international media. a link between the Gaza These ‘unrecognised’ The first strike killed Zu is no water in the village. We Ittempt did at not all definehas been this made any sistance Committee. Israel Following the killing Strip and Iran, by blaming villages can be found in the truck it in. It costs about 50 to supply villages such as initially claimed that Al- Iran for the rocket attacks Negev desert and have been shekels (£8.40) per cubic Umm al-Hieran. Lower Is- Qaisi posed an imminent Limor, an expert in mili- into Southern Israel and in existence since before the meter of water,” explained raeli courts have said that threat, but evidence for thus building the case for state of Israel was formed. of Zuhair al-Qaisi, Yoav the 53-year-old village lead- as long as the villagers were was “alive-dead for over a war. It is believed that the At present, 80-90,000 Pales- er. “There is a pipe that’s able to buy water from In response, as expect- week, and his assassina- success of the Iron Dome tinians live in these villages. tary affairs, wrote that he about eight kilometers long, any source, they had the - tion was delayed until the defense system against The state does not recognise this was never offered. but it’s too old, and the plan- required minimum supply, ets into Southern Israel. No prime minister completed Gaza’s puny rockets will them and has made numer- ning authorities don’t allow thus absolving the Israeli one was hurt but Israel fol- his diplomatic campaign in be used by Israeli politi- ous attempts to move the ed, Palestinians fired rock us to put a new one under state from its responsibili- lowed this with a series of Washington, and until after cians to convince ordinary Bedouins out of the area by the ground.” ties. No Jewish Israeli vil- air strikes throughout the the Purim Holiday and the Israeli’s that the country force and/or coercion. In 2011, the Israeli High lage is treated in this way, Gaza Strip killing 25 peo- weather cleared up”. This can protect itself if it at- Salim Abu al-Qian’s fam- Court stated that all of these leading many to call it an ple and injuring a further suggests that there was no tacks Iran and is counter- ily live in the village of Umm villages must be given a apartheid practice. 75. Despite attempts to imminent threat and his attacked. The latest assault al-Hieran which is nine kil- “minimum access to water.” make the latest airstrikes killing was part of a plan. on Gaza is therefore seen appear spontaneous, many It is thought that the at- by many as a preparation Shaykh Raed Salah wins appeal against deportation commentators within the tack on Gaza was intended for war on Iran. on all grounds Israeli media reported that “Justice at last” to offer an opportunity to From front page

in the view of the judge, the incorrect translation of the poem written by Shaykh Raed tipped this balance in his favour. The judgment further ruled that: “We have no dif-

the Secretary of State’s de- ficultycision has in not concluding been shown that to be proportionate to the need to preserve commu- nity harmony or to protect Press conference held on 10th April in London the United Kingdom from the dangers to which the and individuals who sup- Shaykh Raed speaks on policy refers.” The judge ported Shaykh Raed, in- behalf of millions of op- held that the decision to cluding Friends of Al-Aqsa. pressed Palestinians and deport Shaykh Raed was a “This is a victory for those this is a victory for each ‘disproportionate interfer- who believe in freedom of and every one of them,” ence’ with his rights. speech and who support said Ismail Patel, Chair of The victory is being the Palestinian struggle for Friends of Al-Aqsa. celebrated by many groups freedom from occupation. 04 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

GLOBAL NEWS

Stop the destruction immediately.” clear that “ancient heritage personnel. They can no of Jerusalem All of the organisations sites in the Holy City of Jeru- longer protect or guard his- supporting the petition salem are being wiped out toric sites and documents, Tunisian leader backs were calling on the British and Palestinians are help- and it is up to us to ensure From front page Government to work with less against the assaults that their plight is brought the UN to ensure that Is- of local police and army to the world’s attention.” Palestinian freedom Hugh Lanning, Chair of rael abides by its responsi- Palestine Solidarity Cam- bilities under international paign, explained why the law where Jerusalem is petition was necessary. concerned. It is a shared “The future of Jerusalem city, sacred to Jews, Mus- is vital for the future of a lims and Christians. state of Palestine. By oper- Diana Neslen, from ating a system of segrega- Jews for Justice for Pales- tion, apartheid and ethnic tinians added that “Jerusa- cleansing and the expan- lem means ‘City of Peace’. sion of illegal settlements, It is our belief that peace Israel continues to margin- will not come to a city that alise Palestinians in Jerusa- privileges one community, lem. the Jewish community, over Both the UN and The all the other communities International Court of Jus- who hold Jerusalem dear. tice hold that annexation We believe that the policies of East Jerusalem, which pursued by the Israeli gov- is part of the Occupied ernment in Jerusalem today Palestinian Territory, is a are against all the tenets of violation of International Jewish ethics and values law. The systematic demo- and we challenge Israel to lition of Palestinian homes, recognise that its behav- Rashid Al-Ghannouchi, declaration of support for building of illegal settle- iour in Jerusalem under- the head of Tunisia’s Al- the Palestinian struggle for ments and existence of the mines its professed claim Nahda party has said that freedom came in the wake apartheid Wall to shut Pal- to democratic credentials.” “Palestine is the heart of the of the Tunisian revolution Islamic nation, and a threat and its march towards true estinian communities out Ismail Patel, Chair of Shamiul Joarder from Friends of Al-Aqsa and Diana Neslen from Jews of the main city must cease Friends of Al-Aqsa, made it to Palestine is a threat to democracy. for Justice for Palestinians, outside 10 Downing Street all Muslim countries.” This New Shame for Lib Dems following Baroness Tonge sacking stated that Israel “is not go- racist policies. Thus, in this Liberal Democrats hit an all ing to be there for ever in its present form, it will not timeThe low public when profile party leaderof the present form.” Many agreed continue forever. Nick Clegg sacked Baron- with her sentiments, on In response to the events, ess Jenny Tonge following a the basis that Israel cannot Baroness Tonge wrote the statement made at Middle- continue to exist as a state following open letter: sex University about the fu- which illegally occupies its ture of Israel. The Baroness neighbours and implements An open letter from Baroness Jenny Tonge I must be allowed to correct the allegation made about me by Andy McSmith (“0ops, the Baroness did it again”, 29 February 2012). When I was asked 18 months ago by the Jewish Chronicle to comment on YouTube postings that the IDF were stealing body parts from victims of the earthquake in Haiti, I congratulated the IDF for their swift and gen- erous response to that disaster and said that to stop any such rumours spreading, they should have a swift inquiry into the allegations. Nothing more.

This was interpreted by the Israel Lobby as an accusation of “blood libel” which, in turn, was believed by Nick Clegg. He then sacked me from the Party’s front bench without waiting to speak to me or hear the truth.

My remarks last week were at a meeting at Middlesex University which was constant- ly disrupted by abuse, mouthed obscenities and heckling from Zionists against all the speakers. The Israeli government breaks International Law and the Geneva Convention and abus- es the human rights of Palestinians in a brutal and humiliating way. The US supports them and despite words of condemnation our government and my party does nothing.

In this context, I noted that Israel was losing allies all over the Middle East following the Arab Spring and it is therefore appropriate to warn that country that its actions against

of the US dwindles and the American people begin to get fed up with funding Israel’s theactivities. Palestinians threaten its survival in the long-term, especially when the influence Many people agree with me and have said so publicly. It is sad that Israel and its sup- porters do not listen.

Jenny Tonge Independent Liberal Democrat House of Lords ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 05

GLOBAL NEWS

The US supplied Israel with Ehud Olmert ‘600,000 gas canisters’ Speech Disrupted A report published by the US Campaign to End the One brave protestor in would be served and he’d be Israeli Occupation has stat- Chicago attended a ticket- tried as a war criminal for ed that the US has supplied only event where former the murder of 1,400 Pales- Israel with 600,000 gas can- Israeli Prime Minister Ehud tinians in Gaza in 2008 and isters, used primarily by the Olmert was appearing to en- 1,000 Lebanese in 2006. occupation forces against sure that the uncomfortable “(Olmert) stopped and peaceful Palestinian and in- questions which needed to looked at me in surprise. ternational protestors. be asked were aired. Everyone was quiet and According to the report, Thaer Ahmad disrupted (security) grabbed me and between 2000 and 2009, the talk during the question while they escorted me out, the US transferred “more and answer part of the pro- I said there was more than than 670 million weapons, gram, when it became clear 300 children who were rounds of ammunition that all questions were pre- killed (in Gaza).” and related equipment” arranged and he would not to Israel. According to the be allowed to ask a ques- campaign group, this makes tion. the US complicit in Israeli “I decided to interrupt war crimes including the as he was answering a ques- killing of 1,128 Palestinian tion about predicting the children. future two to three years It also violates US law, as from now. I asked him if he under the Foreign Assistance thought that two to three Act and Arms Export Con- years from now, justice trol Act 1961, “no security assistance may be provided to any country the govern- ment of which engages in a consistent pattern of gross violations of internationally recognized human rights.” Campaign Victory The cost to the US tax payer of the supply of weap- ons to Israel runs into bil- as ASA rules Israel lions of dollars. The US has also pledged a further $30 billion in military assistance advert misleading to Israel to be granted be- tween 2009 and 2018. The Advertising Stand- the complaints, concluding ards Authority (ASA) that it breached the adver- received numerous com- tising standards Code. plaints in December 2011 “We would like to thank following a tourism advert everyone who took the time “AIPAC speaks for AIPAC, not for the Jews” for Israel, which showed to respond to the Action the occupied West Bank and Alert and contacted the A group of Jewish activ- do not.” business with AIPAC and of ‘unfriendly’ reporters to Golan Heights as part of the ASA. This shows what col- ists in the US hired a truck Despite paying for the they dropped the advert to be revoked. Amongst the - to carry a billboard message advert, the truck company preserve their relationship reporters they are target- tively wiped the Palestinian in bringing a halt to Israeli outside the AIPAC Policy decided not to display it with the lobby group. ing are Inter Press Service state of Israel. This effec lectivepropaganda efforts – together, can achieve we Conference in March which at the last minute, to the AIPAC exerts a great journalist and former Jew- gave the false impression thwarted Israeli attempts was to read: “AIPAC speaks immense disappointment territoriesthat all the offland belongedthe map to and to wipe the West Bank and for AIPAC, not for the Jews. of the campaigners. It has politicians and their latest member Mitchell Plitnick, Israel. AIPAC supports war with since become apparent dealmove of has influence been to over lobby US ishMondoweiss’ Voice for Phil Peace Weiss staffand The ASA looked into the said Ismail Patel, Chair of Iran and settlements, Jews that the company also does for the press credentials Alternet’s Adele Stan. advert and adjudicated on GolanFriends Heights of Al-Aqsa. off the map,”

You wouldn’t own just one pair of shoes, why own just one pair of glasses? With prices starting from £35 for a complete pair, you can a ord to accessorise.

Glasses shown are for illustrative purposes only, for our full range please visit www.directvizion.co.uk or pop in to our store.

1a Beckingham Road, Leicester LE2 1HB, UK T: 0116 216 6585 DIRECT VIZION W: www.directvizion.co.uk Helping you see more clearly for less 06 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Review Extreme Rambling - Mark Thomas Mark Thomas is a tance. Accompanying him moving from the fertile Zionist settlers and peace comic, political activist throughout the epic journey farmland of the Jordan Val- activists from both sides. and a writer. Though Tho- was Phil Stebbing, a camera- ley in the north-east, strik- This allows good insight mas may be renowned for ing out west to the village into the construction that is his comic abilities he has - of Zebuba then dropping greatly established himself manished who covering came the to film election the down to Ramallah and East it has on the community. as a peace activist and his walk.campaign Stebbing in had Afghanistan just fin Jerusalem and on to the hills takingThomas place is able and to the engage effect book Extreme Rambling has and is described by Thomas and crops south of Hebron. the reader by showing these shown his deep insight into as looking like a retired drug The wall encircles 300,000 diverse perspectives. the situation between Israel dealer with a penchant for Palestinians; with Israel The book brings to life and Palestine. not shaving and displaying controlling their electricity, probably the most iconic di- The Book is a narrative the remnants of a Mohican. water and other essential vider of land since the Ber- about Thomas’ personal Thomas jokingly suggests utilities. lin Wall. Thomas’ account journey as he walks the wall that the only reason he took Walking the wall on both between Israel and Pales- Stebbing on the walk was the Palestinian and Israeli humour, but also tinged tine. Prior to embarking on that if they got stopped and side introduces you to Pal- iswith filled great with sadness.his trademark This his journey Thomas decided strip searched the Israelis estinian and Israeli guides, book is an interesting read that the best way to really leaders and intellectuals whether or not you are po- get to grips with the divide The barrier, when each having their own views litically engrossed with the Extreme Rambling (Walking Israel’s Barrier) was to use the Barrier as wouldcompleted, go for willStebbing crisscross first! on the barrier. The author situation. Mark Thomas a route map, to “walk the 723kms of land, winding in stops and talks to Palestin- wall” covering its entire dis- and out of the West Bank, ian farmers, Israeli soldiers, Reviewed by Hawa Esat

tion, in particular reference of intelligence to justify the to British collusion in tor- 2003 invasion of Iraq. Intel- Page Eight turing terrorist suspects. At ligence is meant to be about the same time, Worricker is the analysis of information thoughtful exploration of attracting the interest of his – but is it being used to the nuanced relationships neighbour, Nancy Pierpan build up pre-ordained cases between British intelligence (Rachel Weisz),an attractive which have already been services and politicians. young Syrian woman whose decided by politicians? Although measured in pace, brother was controversially The Palestinian refer- its interest lies in intriguing killed by the Israelis in the ence, although a sub-plot, dialogue rather than fast- Palestinian territories. He is refreshingly sympathetic paced action and is pulled is suspicious – are the two incidents linked and if so in on the ground. Pierpan’s cast. andbrother reflective was “waving of realities a white offWorricker due to (Bill an Nighy) impressive is out the truth of what is go- caught at the centre of two whating on way? he is In forced order to to walk find knocking down a house” unfolding stories. His boss flagwhen trying he was to killed stop Israelis by the asks him to review an ex- radar. IDF with no subsequent of- out Pageof his Eightjob and is go a criticaloff the on Page Eight reveals a piece exploration of the intel- The curious friendship tremelyof intelligence sensitive that file threatens which ligence services – particu- ficialdeveloped inquiry. between Wor- the stability of the organisa- larly relevant in a post 9/11 ricker and Pierpan shapes “Attempting to do dis- tion. It discloses that the CIA and 7/7 context. Instead of the outcome, but in the end honourable work in an hon- has illegal prisons around the services cutting back he still has to compromise. ourable way”. This quote the world – not terribly after the Northern Ireland The murky shades of mo- from Page Eight sums up surprising in itself – but the peace process calmed down - the vision of its lead char- British Prime Minister knew the domestic front, MI5 has ligence services are just that about these black sites all massively expanded since rality– murky reflected shades. in the intel named Johnny Worricker. along. The ‘special relation- 2001. The director of Page acterPage Eight,– a senior a contemporary MI5 officer ship’ between Britain and Eight, Sir David Hare recalls America is called into ques- the perversion and misuse Reviewed by Farah Jassat spy film for the BBC, is a Rafeef Ziadah - ‘Hadeel’ Rafeef Ziadahs album many Palestinians. album of truth and dignity, ‘Hadeel’ is a dedication to As one of the most cap- an album campaigning for the Palestinian people who tivating spoken word artists what is right through the face the everyday battle for of our time, Ziadah brings art of words instead of war life. Holding onto both cour- home the bleak scenes of with tanks. age and conviction, Ziadah’s Gaza making her words im- Ziadahs album is not just spoken poetry shows how possible to ignore. ‘Shades about Palestine. It brings Palestinians endeavour to of anger’ is a response to a together issues on deporta- live normal lives despite the Zionist Israeli soldier who tion and immigration; those bullets, bombs and check kicked her in the guts say- facing humiliation as well points. Where children still ing ‘you deserve to be raped as women and children Hadeel before you have your terror- bearing the psychological Rafeef Ziadah occupied by F16 bombers ist children’. ‘We teach life wounds of war and what it flyinstead their of kites the insound a sky of that’s coo- sir’ is Ziadah’s response to a means for them to survive 1. Shades of Anger ing doves over Gaza. journalist who asked ‘don’t whilst carrying this with 2. Baghdad The title of the album them every day. Ziadah 3. Breathe ‘Hadeel’ was inspired by a if you just stopped teaching stands as an ambassador for 4. Supposed To young Palestinian girl of the youyour think children it would to hate?’ all be fine the Palestinian people and a 5. Cry same name. Meaning ‘coo- This is not an album champion for human rights 6. Hadeel ing doves’, this is also the just for entrainment but to all achieved through the art 7. Montreal Subway title of one of the poems on tell a story and to make a of the spoken word. 8. Savage the album which captures 9. Scattered Hadeel’s struggle to survive call for justice, questioning 10. Trail of Tears the loss of her family. An un- politicalthe norms difference. and a desperate It is her cry for compassion. It is an Reviewed by Hena Ahsan

bearable loss suffered by so ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 07

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Art Exhibition This is Apartheid

From my point of view “it was great to see other photographers showing

Palestinians with their photographs.the suffering Iof was honoured to be able to show my photographs to others that are unaware of the situation in Palestine and tell the story that goes with the pictures. “Great initiative - you are the voice of I hope that anyone that Palestine, today I saw her tears” went along to the

exhibition unaware is

now aware and will actively participate in helping to put a stop “

Palestinians. to the suffering of the

Lisa Melrose, exhibitor

“...this deserves a “Lost for words” wider audience.” Friends of Al-Aqsa Glas- Israeli Apartheid is “Israel’s own version of and photography exhibi- a system that has been gowtion, hostedThis Is itsApartheid very first, dur- art universally condemned” ing Israeli Apartheid Week Ben White I was extremely honoured to have my photos shown at

(20-24 February 2012). “Friends of Al-Aqsa’s “This is Apartheid” art and Organised in collaboration Opening night photography exhibition. It was a great opportunity to with the Glasgow University Guests were invited share with others some of the painful sights I Palestinian society, it was to the opening night and witnessed whilst volunteering in Bethlehem last “ an opportunity to cement treated to food, drink, intel- summer. I hope that the photos will encourage others our relationship of mutual lectual discussion and fabu- respect and personal friend- lous art and photography. ships to help us achieve our Phil Chetwynd, one of the to support the Palestinian people. common goal - freedom for exhibitors was invited to to find out more about the Israeli-Palestine conflict and Palestine. speak and present a short Catherine Harris, exhibitor and member of GUPS Art work was submitted - from artists in Cambridge, estine. Phil was involved in Edinburgh and Birmingham filmholding about photographic his time in Paland “Keep it up and don’t “Excellent. This making it a truly national camera workshops, “Cam- be afraid to make powerful exhibition event, and the exhibition era’s for Palestine” over was hosted by the Citizens recent summers in Pales- your point and should be widely Theatre in Glasgow. The art - challenge.” seen.” work on show allowed us to picted the weekly protest in raise awareness about the tine.Nabi TheSaleh film by he the showed villagers. de Israeli occupation of Pales- It showed women and chil- tinian land in a very vivid dren being manhandled by This was a fantastic exhibition. This is the best way in way. It certainly proved to Israeli troops and wounds “which to educate the general public on the daily be thought provoking and caused by rubber bullets stimulating for the guests and gas cannisters. It left the territories. Each picture conveyed a message that a who viewed it. audience in stunned silence. newspapersuffering of article, the Palestinian book etc simplypeople incouldn’t. the Palestinian The mainstream media here in Britain has succesfully

when in fact it’s a clear cut case of ethnic cleansing and

racism.portrayed More things exhibitions as the Israeli/Palestinian like this are hugely “conflict”, important in educating the public on what is really happening and must continue. As a Palestinian man “ living in forced exile since I was 1 years old, I am proud of the work that has gone into this exhibition and long may it continue.

Fouad Turki, visitor

“I knew nothing before I “A look into the side of came in and this the conflict we don’t see exhibition has really much of. Fascinating opened my eyes. and emotional.” Thank you.” For Sale, contact [email protected] 08 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

UPDATE FROM FRIENDS OF AL AQSA

Red Card Israeli Apartheid Friends of Al Aqsa have ety around the world does of Israel is allowed to take portray itself as a just and joined the Red Card Israeli not accept its Apartheid part despite its record of fair state. O man, you have to strive and go on Apartheid campaign, which policies and that it should routinely obstructing Pales- On the March 21st the striving towards your Lord, then will is lobbying to reverse UEFA’s end its illegal occupation of tinian sportsmen from the Red Card Israeli Apartheid decision granting Israel Palestine, thus allowing all same participation. Sports campaign hand delivered you meet Him. the privilege of hosting the Palestinians to finally par- boycott, like the cultural a letter to the Chairman of And he who is given his ledger in his UEFA U21 Championship ticipate globally. boycott, exposes Israel’s the FA, David Bernstein at 2013. Fair Play routine violations against Wembley Stadium, urging right hand, The reversal of UEFA’s Most sports competi- Palestinians on an interna- him to use all his influence Will have an easy reckoning. decision will send a mes- tions sign up to the doctrine tional platform, preventing over UEFA to encourage it to And will return to his people full of joy. sage to Israel that civil soci- of ‘fair play’ yet the state Israel’s efforts to falsely reverse its decision. But he who is given his ledger from behind his back, He will surely invoke destruction.

In recent weeks, we Each time they face have witnessed the pass- attack and lose a child, ing of a number of people, spouse, parent or sibling, both young and old. Death their loss is felt acutely; is a certain reminder for yet, it is largely ignored us all whether we follow by the world’s media. The a faith or not. It focuses death of an Israeli, equally us back to the reality that tragic, attracts the atten- our time is temporary, and tion of the world. It is up that our actions should be to ordinary people like us inspired by our beliefs. to redress this balance and For all of us within ensure that every life lost Friends of Al-Aqsa, our actions are inspired by a equally. belief in justice against in thePerhaps conflict we can is all valued take oppression and I hope that a moment in every day to - remember those who have tion in the commitment passed before us, and say a eachof our of time us and finds wealth satisfac for prayer for their souls. a great cause. The Pales- tinians face the struggle between life and death on a daily basis and whatever - ways greater. Ismail Patel our efforts, theirs are al

Obituary - Abu Bakr Rauf Racism and Violence in Israeli Football The tragic death of a of supermarkets incorrectly something about it.” Sadly, always be seen together young and versatile FOA labelling Israeli goods. he was unable to take ac- in all charitable events. volunteer has left many in The new strategy we tion, but I hope other volun- They would regularly be at Bradford deeply moved. faced was where super- teers will be inspired to pick PSC meetings of which he Abu Bakr Rauf was only markets only labelled the up his fallen baton and take became chairman and his 28 years old when he sud- shelves with “produce of this forward in his memory. wife secretary. They did not denly collapsed and died. Israel” instead of the indi- The loss of Abu-Bakr allow material considera- He is survived by his wife vidual item packaging. I re- is being felt most keenly tions to come in the way of Kauser and their one year call him saying, “That’s plain by his wife Kauser and his contributing to charitable old daughter Arabia. Abu- wrong and illegal. Send me daughter Arabia. They were causes. The most valuable Bakr also left behind his a photograph so we can do a family unit who would contribution they made was distraught mum, dad and with their time. sister. He was a great father, Abu Bakr’s regular husband and son and many emails on events would be will continue to remember signed off quoting Dr Martin Football is a sport yelling “Death to the Arabs” his gentle manner and moral Luther King JR which attracts large num- and beating up Arab clean- character. “An individual has not bers of young fans. Israel’s ing workers. In a further Abu Bakr was a dedicat- started living until he can track record of racism and racist attack, two officials ed Friends of Al-Aqsa volun- rise above the narrow con- violence at games in itself of the Maccabi Petah Tikva teer and his death is a great fines of his individualistic should act as a deterrence club attacked Hapoel Haifa loss to the Pro-Palestinian concerns to the broader for UEFA. In March alone, player Ali Khatib, who was campaigns which he sup- concerns of all humanity” there were four recorded vi- head-butted by one and ported. He was a passionate To me this quote olent incidents. Thousands kicked in the face by the talented unique individual summed up Abu-Bakr’s life of Hapoel Tel Aviv fans ri- other. Khatib lost conscious- who was always ready to and struggles. Abu-Bakr’s oted after the team lost the ness and was rushed to the lend a helping hand where it death at such a young age Tel Aviv derby, throwing hospital. was needed. Abu-Bakr was has awakened and re- objects onto the field and Such violent racism inspired to act by the injus- grouped many of the local blocking the players of both against Arabs may be the tices he saw during Israel’s campaigners in Bradford. teams from leaving it. norm in Israel, but it is ab- bombing of Gaza in Op- His example will be followed A few days later, two horrent to the rest of us. eration Cast Lead. He took by many of us, and his legacy Maccabi Petah Tikva fans Take Action: Lobby boycott very seriously and will live on, insha’Allah. We burst onto the field and UEFA and ask them to re- in my last conversation with pray that Allah raises his tried to assault a referee. verse their decision so that him just four days before his ranks in the hereafter. In a separate incident, 300 Israel is not allowed to host death, he was determined to Beitar Jerusalem fans ran the U21 tournament. deal with the new challenge By Ebrar Khan amok at the Malha Mall, ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 09

UPDATE FROM FRIENDS OF AL AQSA

VISIT THE FOA ONLINE SHOP

£7.50

Made in Palestine Ku yeh Available in Black and white, khakhi, blue, grey and in Palestine colours

The Hirbawi factory, located in Hebron (Al-Khalil) is the RULES & INSTRUCTIONS REGISTRATION FORM only ku yeh factory in Palestine.

1. Only registered 6. Limited transportation Name: ______The Ku yeh Project aims to ensure that Palestine’s only participants may take part available from Glasgow at ku yeh factory stays in business (and hopefully help in the Sponsored Walk. a cost of £5 per person. Address: ______it grow), by regularly buying from them in bulk and Please enquire upon distributing worldwide. 2. Please register as early registration. ______as possible. All participants ______Postcode: ______must register by Friday 7. Under 16’s are not Palestinian Medjoul Dates 29th June 2012. eligible to participate. Email (essential): ______from 3. All registered 8. Please come Telephone Number: ______Age: ______£8 participants should try to appropriately dressed as raise a minimum of £200 in weather can be changeable Emergency Contact: ______sponsorship. near summit and ideally walking boots should be Emergency Telephone Number: ______4. Sponsorship forms will worn. be sent out on registration. Please return this form to Shahid Majeed or Sahira Dar. 9. All money raised will Tel: 07977004141 5. All sponsorship money go to FOA in order to help must be sent to Friends continue campaigns. Alternatively, you can email these details to us and we will of Al-Aqsa no later than send out your sponsorship form. Wednesday 11th July 2012. E: [email protected] www.foa.org.uk CLICK ‘SHOP’

Become a member - Join today!

For just £10 a year, support the Free Palestine campaign. Send an email to [email protected] and we will send you a direct debit form to set up your membership.

Donate

You1. Online can make - through one-off Paypal donations: to [email protected] (via our web-site) 2. By cheque, made payable to ‘Friends of Al-Aqsa’, to PO BOX 5127, Leicester, LE2 0DT 3. By direct bank transfer: Friends of Al-Aqsa, Sort Code 08-92-99, Account No. 65158078, The Cooperative Bank, Southway, WN8 6VT 10 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

SPECIAL FEATURE Administrative Detention No charges No trials No rights

The Desperate Situation of Palestinian Administrative Detainees who can be detained indefinitely with no access to lawyers or family

Gazans fast at a protest tent in support of Adnan. Some lie in beds, with shackles, to simulate Adnan’s current condition.

Background – Khader Adnan By Farah Jassat hits the headlines Human Rights What is Administrative that Khader had lost a third of his body weight confirmed and was Detention? still shackled to his hospital Administrative detention is a procedure that allows bed. During his hunger- detainees to be held without charge or trial for strike Amnesty Internation- periods of up to six months, which can be renewed al repeatedly called for him repeatedly. This practice allows the military to hold to either be charged or re- prisoners indefinitely on secret evidence without leased as Israeli authorities charge or trial. Detainees can spend months on end, had revealed no evidence sometimes years, without ever knowing the details justifying his continued de- of what they are charged with or being allowed the tention. right to stand a fair trial. Both the detainees and Khader’s brave method their families are left in the dark and have no idea if of resistance sparked a or when they will be released. number of sympathy hunger strikes by other Palestinian prisoners as well as solidar- ity protests across Gaza and Statistics the West Bank. The strike ● 2000 (eve of the second intifada) The situation of Pales- ended on the 21st Febru- 12 Palestinians in administrative detention. tinians held in administra- ary when a deal was struck tive detention by Israel for him to be released in ● Late 2002 - Early 2003 was brought to the world’s mid-April. His father spoke Over 1000 Palestinians in administrative detention. attention recently when the of the loyalty Khader felt case of Khader Adnan hit towards the hundreds of ● 2005 - 2007 the headlines. In December fellow Palestinian prison- Approximately 765 Palestinians as the average monthly Khader was detained by the ers who went on solidar- number of administrative detainees. Israeli authorities without ity hunger strikes. Khader charge. The day after be- refused to eat until he was ● Post 2007 ing arrested he went on a assured that the news that The number of administrative detainees has generally hunger-strike in protest of the hunger strike had ended decreased every year. his imprisonment under the had reached his supporters. practice of ‘administrative Only once they had ended ● February 2012 detention’. their hunger strikes did he At least 309 Palestinians in administrative detention, The hunger strike lasted a critical 66 days – by the 66 days. Palestinian Legislative Council members. end of which Physicians for agree to eat his first meal in including one man held for over five years and 24 ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 11

SPECIAL FEATURE

Hana Shalabi – Dying to Live Hana Shalabi, a 30 year old woman from Burqin village near Jenin, was re-arrested on 16th February 2012. She is being held under administrative detention and has been on a hunger strike for six weeks in protest of her administrative detention. She is being held without charge or trial and at the time of writing (29 March 2012), she is dying to live. She is protesting to secure her human rights and for the rights of her fellow administrative detainees – over 300 of them.

Despite her critical condition and warnings from doctors that she is at serious risk of heart failure, there seems to be no signs of her release. The appeal by her lawyer has recently been rejected. Protesters hold pictures of Palestinian prisoner Hana al-Shalabi. Hana’s lawyer has also expressed concerns over the deliberation by Israeli officials to force-feed her. The World Medical Association considers the Administrative Detention in Israel force-feeding of hunger strikers to be a form of The practice of Admin- inhuman and degrading treatment, as it appears in istrative Detention in Is- the International Convention Against Torture. rael has come under severe criticism by human rights The Israelis claim that Hana is a supporter of groups such as Amnesty In- Islamic Jihad and she has previously been held ternational. Amnesty argues under administrative detention for two years. If that all political prisoners there was evidence to support this claim, Hana should be charged and given should have been given a fair trial and duly a fair trial within a reason- convicted. The lack of such procedure suggests the able amount of time, or else weakness of Israel’s case against her. released. Such organizations cite administrative deten- She was released in last October’s prisoner release tion as violating Article 9 of deal between Hamas and Isreal but in violation of the International Covenant the deal, was re-arrested in February. Those four on Civil and Political Rights months in between were a time of joyful reunion for (ICCPR), which states that Hana and her family. Unfortunately that time has “no-one should be subject- ended and Hana’s sister Zahra expresses her grief at ed to arbitrary detention” her family’s situation “Her weakening heartbeat is and that “the deprivation my weakening heartbeat. Her stomach pangs are my of liberty must be based on own stomach pangs. If she dies, I hope she haunts grounds and procedures the dreams of everyone who is responsible for her established by law.” life, everyone who could have done Although international something to secure her release but didn’t. The real- human rights law permits ity is that the world has failed Hana. What can we do some limited use of ad- other than put our faith and trust in God?” ministrative detention in emergency situations, there (ICCPR, Article 9). used – in direct contraven- rogation. are strict parameters which In practice, Israel rou- tion of international law – Administrative detain- Update guide its implementation. tinely uses administrative for collective and criminal ees are also often denied States are not allowed to punishment rather than for regular family visits in ac- On Sunday April 1st, Hana Shalabi was released use it in a sweeping man- practice by claiming it is the prevention of future cordance with international from prison and then deported to Gaza by Israel. ner and may only order it detentionunder a continuous and justifies state its threat. For example, admin- legal standards, and Israel Hana is not from Gaza and this is effectively an on individuals in the con- of emergency. It is intrigu- istrative detention orders regularly fails to separate extension of her prison sentence as she will not be text of public emergencies ing to note that Israel has are regularly issued against administrative detainees allowed to leave the tiny coastal strip which is still which threaten the life of been in a continuous state individuals suspected of from the regular prison under Israeli blockade, for the next three years. the nation. These individu- of emergency since its in- population as required by This deportation is illegal as it amounts to a als must be assessed on a ception in 1948. an unsuccessful criminal law. forcible deportation of a protected persons which case-by-case basis with no Moreover, administra- committinginvestigation an or offense a failure after to is prohibited under Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva discrimination of any kind tive detention is frequently obtain a confession in inter- Convention. 12 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

FUN AND GAMES ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 13

FUN AND GAMES

COMPETITION WIN! WIN! WIN!

OPEN TO ANYONE

AGED 16 OR UNDER!

ANSWER A SIMPLE QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A £20 ARGOS VOUCHER!

Question: How far is Jerusalem from Makkah?

Email your answers to us at: [email protected] Put ‘Competition’ in the subject box, and remember to include your name, address and age and the answer. Good Luck!

Last editions winner: Wijdaan Meeah Khan, aged 6, from Leicester!

Sisters of Palestine

What has been one of difference. We’re always on make a difference as indi- work that you do? your most memorable the same wavelength and viduals. I hope that when You can close your eyes to or successful events always bouncing off each people listen to what I have the things you do not want When did you start up and why? other’s energy. to say they feel inspired to to see, but you cannot close ‘Sisters of Palestine’ It would have to be our first make a difference. your heart to the things you and what does your event ‘Beats for Gaza’ which do not want to feel. group do? was basically a perform- Myself and two friends, ance night. What made it Tell us about your Asma and Azra; have always so successful for me was poetry How do others get been active in charity work when I spoke to some of the I’ve always had a passion involved in ‘Sisters of If you could be a but we formed ‘Sisters of people after the event; they for writing but my writing Palestine’? character in a book Palestine’ in October 2010 said that they had learned a changed as I grew older. The They can actively get in- who would it be and with 3 main aims: Inform, more active I became the volved by volunteering at Many people feel lot about Palestine that they why? Interest and Educate. more the style and content our events. We have a page helpless about the didn’t know prior to com- Not so long ago I was read- of my pieces changed. The on Facebook which we keep situation in Palestine ing. They were now more ing a book called ‘Conquest We wanted to inform people passion just comes from my updated with any upcoming when faced with the inspired to make a change. of the Sahabah’ By Al- Imam and keep them up-to-date aim to educate and empow- events. They can also get facts and statistics. A Al Waqidi. If there’s one about the situation in Pales- er people who are not well involved by donating. Most group of girls in character I could be it would tine. We wanted to encour- informed on subjects such importantly they can just Leicester decided to be Khawlah bint al-Azwar. age people to become inter- as Palestine. help by educating them- form What is it that drives She is such an inspiration! ‘Sisters of ested and active in helping selves and raising aware- so that they you as a group? On the battlefield her de- Palestine’ and supporting the cause. It really inspires me to ness about the situation in could actively be a part We’ve know each other termination, bravery and Finally, we wanted to help become the voice for the Palestine so others can get of the solution. for about 8-9 years now so strength had no bounds. educate people on the im- we’re very close on a per- voiceless and if the only involved. Even in the face of defeat portance of Al Aqsa. Every- way to get through to peo- Aqsa News caught up sonal level. Although we’re she was fearless due to her one has the power to make ple is through my poetry, with one of the very different individually, love for Allah and her devo- a massive difference. then it just makes writing founders, Sumayyah, to what bonds us even more tion to Islam. Even to have a lot easier. People need to discuss this great and drives us as a group is Do you have a moto or a few of her characteristics understand the power and initiative. that we share the same pas- a quote that defines would be enough. sion and desire to make a strength they possess to you as a group or the 14 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

RECIPES

Musakhan | try this delicious Palestinian recipe

● A PALESTINIAN ½ teaspoon of ground SUMAC-SCENTED ROAST allspice or cloves VARIATIONS CHICKEN RECIPE. ¼ teaspoon of ground Sumac is a common spice nutmeg in the Middle East. The Tender succulent chicken ¼ cup of Olive oil ground berries of a infused together with Middle Eastern bush, it 3 Onions, thinly sliced sumac and sweet can be found in most caramelized onions is a 2 large pieces of Lavash Middle Eastern popular Palestinian dish bread supermarkets. If you can’t called Musakhan. Quick Salt and pepper to season get it, use 3 tablespoons and easy to make, it is of paprika and a good traditionally cooked and METHOD squeeze of lemon juice. served on sheets of ● In a large bowl, mix Of course, the taste won’t flatbread which soak up together the chicken, sumac, be quite the same. the delicious juices to spices, salt and pepper and Palestinians use bread produce an irresistibly marinate for at least 30 called shrak or marquq mouth-watering dish. minutes or preferably several for this dish. More hours. To keep the chicken commonly available fresh, remember to place the Armenian lavash bread is Serves 4 to 6 chicken in the refrigerator often, until the onions are remaining onions. Cover the read thermometer inserted cooked down and beginning whole dish with the into the dish should register very similar. Or use 2 or 3 whilst marinating. pieces of pita bread that INGREDIENTS ● Preheat oven to 350°F. to brown, 15 to 25 minutes. remaining sheet of lavash around 180°F). If the bread 3 Pounds chicken, (or one ● Line the bottom of a bread, tucking in the sides to starts to burn, cover it lightly have been split in two Heat the olive oil in a large horizontally. whole chicken) cut into skillet over a medium-high baking dish large enough to seal the chicken in. Sprinkle with aluminum foil. serving pieces flame. Add the chicken, a few hold the chicken and onions the lavash bread with water ● Remove the dish from the Some cooks add a big pieces at a time, and brown with a sheet of lavash bread. to lightly moisten it. oven and let it rest about 10 pinch of saffron to the ¼ cup of dried sumac (see Spread half the onions ● Place the baking dish in the minutes. Remove and discard variations) on both sides. Remove to a sautéing onions. You can plate and set aside. over the bread, then place oven and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 the top bread and serve the also garnish with toasted 1 teaspoon of ground ● Add the onions to the chicken over the onions. Top hours, or until the chicken is chicken in its dish. pine nuts or almonds. cinnamon skillet and sauté, stirring the chicken with the cooked through (an instant- Baba Ghanoush

● A MIDDLE-EASTERN 2 tablespoons of Tahini AUBERGINE DIP. (sesame paste) VARIATIONS 1 teaspoon of Salt If you would like to make Baba Ghanoush is made this dish without the with aubergine (egg plant) METHOD tahini, you can also stir and is a rich smoky dish ● Preheat oven to 400°F. 1/4 to 1/2 cup yogurt perfect as an appetiser or Place the aubergine on a into the baba ghanoush dip. Popular in the baking pan and roast in the to lighten it up a bit. Middle East, Baba oven until cooked through, Garnish with paprika. Ghanoush goes well with about 45-60 minutes. The aubergine should collapse pita bread wedges or with when it is removed from the raw vegetables and is oven and begins to cool. FOOD FACT perfect for sandwiches or ● Cut the aubergine in half wraps. and remove the pulp. Place DID YOU KNOW? the pulp, garlic, lemon juice, Aubergines are a good Serves 4 to 6 as an tahini and salt in a food source of fibre and folic appetiser processor or blender and acid. The colour of the blitz together until smooth. skin is a result of the INGREDIENTS ● Remove to a serving bowl, presence of 3 Aubergines (eggplant) adjust seasoning and drizzle anthocyanins - olive oil over the top. 2-3 cloves of Garlic shredded compounds with Sprinkle with parsley and antioxidant properties’ Juice from 1 lemon serve. ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 15

Thousands of Christians stopped from Bethlehem to Jerusalem walk for Easter SYRIA Emergency Appeal

More than 10,000 KILLED 70,000 INJURED 100,000 REFUGEES Easter was marked by Christians around the world on Sunday April 8th. In Jerusa- lem, approximately 35,000 thousand Chris- tian pilgrims visited the church of the Holy Sepulcher to celebrate the religious festival. However, the usual procession from Beth- lehem to Jerusalem could not take place, as Israel’s separation wall blocks the path. This has angered many, and a spokes- man for the Palestinian Authority, Nabil How many more Shaath, commented that “Israel’s illegal Wall is an insult to the rich history of the Holy Land. Indeed, this colonial regime con- need to suffer? stitutes an assault on more than 2000 years of Christian history in the Holy Land for it holy cities of Bethlehem and Jerusalem.” disconnects,The size for of the the first gathering time in history, this year the was unusual as Israel usually restricts the number of Palestinian Christians who are allowed to visit Jerusalem to mark this festival. However, this year, more permits were granted and Christian Palestinians were able to exercise some of their reli- gious rights, albeit still to a limited degree. In order to obtain a permit, the Palestinians must apply through their churches several weeks in advance. Israel usually excludes all young men under the age of 35 and any- one who has a family member being held in prison by Israel, regardless of the nature of DONATE NOW the charges. The granting of a permit does not guar- antee access to Jerusalem, however, and worshippers can still be stopped at the numerous road blocks and checkpoints in 0161 225 0225 their journey, and made to turn back. Mus- lim Palestinians also face similar restric- tions on their right to worship in Jerusa- humanappeal.org.uk lem’s holy sites. 16 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

From Glasgow to Gaza changing the lives of disadvantaged youth

YouthSchool is a charity Can you tell us about What have been some of your most which was set up in 2009 projects that challenging projects? to encourage young people YouthSchool have Our most challenging project has been operating inside the and disadvantaged youth been running? Gaza Strip. An opportunity arose to participate in the Gaza to build up opportunities YouthSchool have been Freedom March at the end of 2009. Although the original for themselves. Based in involved in developing trip failed due to measures put in place by Hosni Mubarak, Glasgow, the project has projects in Indonesia, Gaza it was nevertheless a tremendous opportunity for network- since expanded beyond the and Morocco to date. In - Scottish borders to Indo- Indonesia we have been barak’s refusal to let us break the siege of Gaza made me nesia, Gaza and Morocco, investigating the feasibility ingmore with determined fellow activists to prove from that the 43 siege different could becountries. broken by Mu using Islamic principles to of Youth Farms, while in the working with young people to get goods out and money in. Gaza Strip we have focussed on ways to work with the We worked with youth in Gaza and used their artwork to make a difference. youth in spite of the crip- produce a calendar which we printed and sold from Scot- Aqsa News caught up with the founder and Chairman, land, generating over $10,000 in income for the contribu- Ken Imrie, to find out more. In Morocco we are experi- tors. The project was repeated for 2012. What is YouthSchool all about? plingmenting effects with ways of in the which siege. YouthSchool is a Scottish charity that seeks to develop the we can connect peer youth What sort of problems did you encounter talent of young people, supporting and empowering them to groups between the UK and when initially starting up as an reach their full potential as youth leaders & social activists. Morocco. organisation? The main problem that I encountered starting up Youth- School was just managing and prioritising my time. I had become involved in various projects including Palestinian projects. For example I planned and managed the Scottish leg of a theatre tour by a large group of young people from

energy to start YouthSchool, it was necessary to give up a Balatalot of other refugee projects camp inthat Nablus. I was In involved order to with.find the I think time itand is important to decide whether to focus on one thing and try

initiatives. and do it well, or whether to contribute to many different If others would like to get involved who do they contact? We have plenty of roles for volunteering in fundraising and creating peer-peer projects. We will also consider internship and secondment to increase our capacity and develop the organisation. What drove you to start up the YouthSchool Contact: Ken Imrie, Director YouthSchool, [email protected] initiative? Do you have a The original idea for YouthSchool was to create a vehicle motto that you for transforming the potential of disadvantaged youth. live by? There are a number of founding principles including Active You have to invest in Participation – where supporters are actively encouraged people by giving them to participate in the act of charity and form connections the skills and tools they need to grow and de- velop within their local withan opportunity the beneficiaries. to transform The opportunitythe thinking forand volunteers behaviour toof environment, respecting becomeeveryone directly involved. acquainted with the beneficiaries creates their beliefs and social structure. We believe We also promote Enterprise & Opportunism by developing in the potential of the enterprising skills and encouraging an opportunistic streak youth and their amazing talents. inhim all for our a pioneers.lifetime”, highlightsThe old adage, the importance “Give a man of a investing fish and As Robert Louis Steven- youin people, feed him encouraging for a day, enterprisingteach a man skills, to fish and and increasing you feed son said, “Don’t judge human capital in our communities. This entrepreneurial each day by the harvest you reap but by the principles. This quest for income generation needs to be seeds that you plant.” flairtempered should by have a social an ethical conscience focus, that derived dictates from where Islamic the wealth is distributed and how.

Free Palestine Duaa Hamaad Al-Jafi Duaa is an active student living in the Gaza Strip and attends Zahrat Al-Madaaen Secondary school. At the age of 16 she has already won several Art competi- tions. This painting was selected as one of the best paintings produced by Pal- estinian school children for the YouthSchool 2012 cal- endar – Culture of Palestine

–The winning painting first was prize! displayed at the Friends of Al Aqsa exhibition in Glasgow dur- ing Israeli Apartheid Week For Sale, contact [email protected] in February 2012. ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 17

TRAVEL TO PALESTINE An unforgettable journey

Tazeem Hameed’s father visited Palestine in 1972 By Tazeem What was it like to pray in Masjid al-Aqsa? and he always spoke about the struggle of the I arrived at night and my hotel room had an Al Aqsa view. people there. As a result, Tazeem grew up always feeling a link to the land and its people and did What was the one moment during your night in fear that I might miss Fajr prayer. I loved the quiet all she could to support them through charity and trip which will stay in your memory? Itwalk was through overwhelming the maze to likesee thesouks Masjid! towards I couldn’t the mosque sleep at other means. During a visit to Al Khalil (Hebron) we took a walking tour dawn. There weren’t many people in the mosque which through the city. We met Palestinian residents who are not disappointed me until I learnt that the locals aren’t always Finally, in December 2011, she attended a Human allowed to enter the street they live on. To get to their homes allowed in. Rights Film Festival where she watched a documentary about the struggles faced by house, climb to the roof then go over roofs until they reach Palestinian olive farmers and the uprooting of theytheir have own tohome. enter Witnessing through a windowthis was atheartbreaking. the back of the first thousands of olive trees. A chance meeting with an old school friend at the Film Festival meant that On the same tour, I got separated from my group and as I she was left inspired after hearing about her trip walked up to meet them a group of small children stopped to Palestine. Tazeem decided it was a journey she me insisting I was on the wrong side of the street. The paths herself had to make. are segregated and Palestinians have to walk on the left hand narrow side. They were tugging at my jacket and pull- We caught up with Tazeem to find out more about her journey to Palestine. caring and hospitable nature and a fear of keeping within ingboundaries me to the as Palestinian they are fully side. aware It’s a reflectionof the consequences. of both their I wondered what their young eyes had been witness to.

What was the hardest lesson you learnt during this journey? I was mistaken for being Palestinian and I was subject to checks almost everywhere. This gave me an insight into how Palestinians are treated and go through numerous stops in their daily lives. To be subject to the odd racist or Islamaphobic comment is hard but to spend every living day subject to prejudice and harassment is tiring and men- Was Palestine what you expected? tally exhausting. It was better than I expected. I enjoyed walking through the old souks and getting lost in the Old City in Jerusalem; look- ing at the beautiful and colourful displays and enjoying the hustle and bustle of a busy market. It was also very scenic and beautiful whilst driving between cities. I also often ac- knowledged that I was in the land of some of our prophets and that felt special. Despite the dangers, I used local trans- port and felt safe being on my own. Most Palestinians are felt at home. fluent in English and they are happy to help and direct so I I stayed with a family while helping farmers with their planting. I realized how valuable my contribution was when Final words... I would highly recommend visiting Palestine, if you have always had that feeling that one day you will visit then do Iappreciated. got out to the fields – the farmers are not allowed to use it soon. Buy Palestinian products as these are produced tractors on their fields so having a helping hand was really with enormous struggle on the part of the farmers. The least we can do is support them. witness Palestinians go through in their everyday lives. However, nothing can prepare you for the difficulties you 18 AQSA NEWS | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

Mosque in the Bronx welcomes Jewish faithful In a New York neigh- bourhood, ties of faith bind Jews and Muslims. Mem- bers of the Chabad of East Bronx who are an ultra- Orthodox synagogue, have been granted room to wor- ship in the Islamic Cultural Center of North America, lo- cally known as the Al-Iman mosque. This relationship is - ity of Jews and Muslims to uniqueaccommodate and reflects each the other’s abil needs and stretch out the hand of friendship. The Chabad congrega- tion was unable to pay the rent for their premises and as a result, their synagogue closed down. The Imam of Al-Iman mosque immedi-

Islamic Centre premises, atelyfree ofoffered charge. the The use syna-of the gogue now operates from the Centre. SYRIA Delhi police arrest EMERGENCY journalist following bomb blast APPEAL against Israeli diplomat Over 8,000 killed In early March, police in Delhi arrested Syed Mo- Thousands more injured and trapped hammad Ahmad Kazmi for the attack on the wife of an Israeli diplomat on 13 Feb- They are cold, hungry and need our help. ruary which left her injured. Kazmi is a renowned jour- nalist in India with over 30 £50 can provide a family with an emergency food pack year’s experience covering

conflicts around the globe. Hishis arrest incarceration, has baffled he many, was andnot charged.for the first 2 weeks or PLEASE DONATE His lawyer applied for bail in late March, but this was denied by the judge. 0800 4 0800 11 Kazmi has stated that he has faced harsh interroga- Charity Reg. No. 1000851 tion from Indian police and www.uwt.org from members of the Israeli Mossad. He denies having any involvement in the at- tack. ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012 | AQSA NEWS 19

Palestinian women on the air-waves Nisaa FM was set up in Maysoun Odeh Gangat is BDS success as Glasgow the Director of the station give Palestinian women a and she says that the sta- University ends Eden thevoice West and Bankhelp them in 2010 to cel- to tion aims to inform, inspire ebrate their achievements and empower local women. and share each other’s lives. “Through the positive role Springs Contract The radio station aims to that the women are playing in the society that we por- Following a vigorous cupies. The water is then lives of Palestinian women tray, we believe that we can campaign by the Glasgow bottled in an illegal Israeli University Palestine Society, settlement called Katzrin. positivelyby giving them influence a public the empower women economi- platform and has been a cally and then socially and the university has decided The boycott against complete success. As the politically. It could be any not to renew their contract Eden Springs has seen only radio station in the en- woman from the rural areas with Eden Springs. The UK success across many Scot- tire Middle East dedicated or the refugee camp, or a company is a subsidiary of tish universities, including just to women, it is also run woman parliamentarian or the Israeli Mayanot Eden Strathclyde, Caledonian, - minister.” company which extracts wa- Edinburgh and Dundee uni- ian women. Thus, the station aims ter from the Golan Heights versities. which Israel illegally oc- mainlyThe by challenges a staff of facedPalestin by to open up new avenues for Palestinian women come women whose basic rights from the occupation but also may be infringed in numer- from poverty and the norms ous ways. So far, it has been of their patriarchal society. a success. Gaza music Solar power and wind turbines school rebuilt threatened with demolition In six Hebron villages, Israel refuses to supply Palestinian families are these villages with electric- ity or running water and energy sources provided by these alternative sources benefitting95 solar panels from and alternative six wind of energy have provided a turbines built in a joint Ger- vital lifeline for the villag- man/New Zealand govern- ers. However, the threat ment funded initiative, with of demolition means that the help of Swiss and Danish they will once again face NGOs. Israel is now threat- the darkness of limited fuel ening these structures with and reliance on polluting demolition. generators.

Sunday 6th May 2012 During the war on Gaza they play for their parents - and relatives to help ease stroyed many school build- their stress and tension. It inings 2008-2009, including Israela solitary de is a welcome escape from music school in Gaza. Three their daily realities. years later, the school has The trauma that children in Gaza have witnessed is one of the Palestine Red immense and through this SponsoredSunday 6th Walk May 2012 finallyCrescent been buildings rebuilt and within is school, they are able to ex- press themselves in a way The children use their that is otherwise impossi- usedmusical by 127 instruments pupils. as a ble. The school hopes to ex- means to escape from the pand in the future in order Peak District - Derbyshire harsh stress of life in Gaza. to help more children. 15km walk - about 4 hours to complete Many tell stories of how 8km walk - about 2 hours to complete Trade between Britain and Israel increases by 34 per cent in 2011 Britain has continued between the two countries to trade briskly with Is- was worth £3.75 billion, an rael despite human rights increase of 34 per cent from abuses and accusations of REGISTER TODAY war crimes being continu- most from the trade, mak- TO HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR FRIENDS OF AL-AQSA ously leveled against the 2010. Israel benefits the www.foa.org.uk/walk exports to Britain. ing £2.18 billion from its Zionist state. In 2011, trade AQSA NEWS 20 | ISSUE 49 / APRIL 2012

Olympic dreams of Israel cuts ties with UN PALESTINIAN MEDJOUL DATES Human Rights Council Palestinian athlete The UN Human Rights the Human Rights Council. Council launched an inves- Condemnation of Israel’s from tigation into illegal West illegal settlement policy is £8 Bank Settlements in late not new in the UN and Israel March and intended to send has been highly criticised a Fact-Finding Mission to by many governments for investigate events on the its actions, including by the ground. Israel responded by British government. The severing all ties with the UN building of settlements in the body and denying them ac- West Bank disrupts Pales- cess to the West Bank. tinian life by breaking up the The US stood alone in land. Much of the settlement voting against the initiative lands are considered to be WWW.FOA.ORG.UK CLICK ‘SHOP’ which won wide support at stolen land by Palestinians.

Bahaa al Faraa is a 20 “It’s a beautiful feeling” year old Palestinian who says Faraa, “both as an ath- dreams of Olympic glory. lete and a Palestinian. I will With scarce facilities in be taking a message from Gaza, he only has a small the Palestinians to the great- gym to use and has to make est games on earth; that do with the streets of Gaza Palestinians exist despite for training. The lack of facilities means that he Although Faraa knows he may not reach optimum ourmay difficult not be circumstances.” holding the Ol- ympic gold medal, nothing 2012; however, this has not stands in the way of his de- fitnessdiminished in time his for dreams London of termination and passion as being the only Palestinian he continues to jog on and representing Palestine at the games. wave the flag for Palestine. VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE TODAY

£7.50

MADE IN PALESTINE KUFIYEHS ALSO AVAILABLE IN OTHER COLOURS

WWW.FOA.ORG.UK CLICK ‘SHOP’