Greetings,
I want to give you some of my impressions of the tour in Jerusalem on 21.12.13. Machsom Watch’s activity is, on the one hand, a sacred endeavor, and, on the other hand, does Israel an injustice. The fact that a mature person stands at the checkpoints, trying to insure that they operate appropriately, ethically, that basic human rights are not violated, is very worthy and very good for Israel. But, on the other hand, you publish your photographs and show them to the media in Israel and abroad, though Israel has been vilified for a long time even without your efforts. Don’t forget the lynch in Ramallah when you show the Qalandiya checkpoint, because the lynch demonstrates that every passerby seeks our sons’ blood. Don’t forget, as you show the checkpoints, all the bereaved families mourning their relatives - how their lives have become joyless. Think about the possible consequences of the material you publish, about the pressure and the sanctions that the UN could impose on Israel, think about what crossing permits could lead to. When you show the areas Israel annexed think about where your children and grandchildren will live, where they would be able to buy an apartment in Israel. And after you remember all that - your work is truly worthy of admiration, the fact you rise so early to uphold human rights. Remember, because you’re truly compassionate women, the suffering of your own people, and don’t be so angry at those young, inexperienced soldiers standing there for hours, at all hours of the day and night. Remember, above all, to do what’s best for Israel - and, in fact, when you notice inhumane treatment of minorities by the authorities, that’s very helpful to Israel. But you should first notify the Israeli authorities, and only then, if the problem persists, publicize it more widely so that others may respond.
Thank you for hearing me out. I wanted to express this after the tour, which was extremely interesting and educational.
Thank you,
Ilana
Translated by Charles K.