These tours are essential for every Israeli who cares about the country’s future. Even if you know what goes on there, follow the news, there’s nothing like seeing it first-hand. The shame at being Israeli is greater when you see what’s happening with your own eyes.

Ending the occupation and establishing a Palestinian state should be Israel’s greatest interest, but unfortunately it isn’t on top of the Israeli governments’ lists of priorities. We’re paying with blood, and will continue doing so, literally.

Your work is extremely important and blessed, and the way you’ve been demonized is scandalous.

In gratitude,

Asher Nachmias

Dear Machsom Watch women,

Yesterday we participated in a tour led by Anat Shafir. It was both instructive and depressing.

At first you think you’re travelling through others’ wounds. In “their” villages, surrounded by fences and walls. “Their” roads, on which only you are allowed to drive. “Their” shops, locked or gaping open empty to the street. “Their” old people and children wandering among overflowing, uncovered garbage bins. Checkpoints at which “their” young people crowd, jammed together, on their way to or back from their jobs and destinations. Only later do you realize that the wounds through which you’re travelling are your own.

Hello,

Yesterday we participated in Machsom Watch’s tour of the Nablus area, led by Dalya. It was wonderfully organized and extremely educational. We were amazed by how much she knew about the area and by the way she presented the material. Only by seeing with your own eyes can you understand how horribly and shamefully the state behaves in our name – behaviour for which we bear considerable responsibility. We want personally to express our gratitude and esteem. We’d also appreciate receiving information about upcoming tours in the Jerusalem area.

Keep up the good, important work!

Sincerely,

Ilana and Erez Bar’on

Hello,

Last Saturday (11.5.13) we toured the West Bank with Pitzi and Nurit.

I can’t find words to thank you for your initiative and guidance.

There’s a reason for the expression, “You have to see for yourself.” You really do have to see for yourself, and in this case you have to look right at the reality we live in, which we usually prefer not to see, prefer to believe there’s no choice.

Thank you for the tour’s stimulating lesson.

Sincerely,

Rachel Lavie

Dear Pitzi,