Remembering the Nakba!

by Robert Laurie

ON SATURDAY 15th May hundreds of protesters joined a picket in Whitehall opposite Downing Streets to commemorate the 62nd anniversary of the ethnic cleansing of Palestine by the newly formed Israel state in 1948, known as the Nakba (catastrophe).
Organised by Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Stop the War Coalition, the British Muslim Initiative and CND the lively lunchtime picket included Palestinian exiles, British Muslims, left-wing supporters of the Palestinian cause and orthodox Jews who regard Zionism as a perversion of their faith.
This, the first protest outside Downing Street since the installation of David Cameron as Prime Minister saw the delivery of a petition protesting against the British government persistent support for every aggressive action of the Israeli government.
Sarah Colborne, of Palestine Solidarity Campaign, said: “We’re asking the new government to remember the Nakba and let it serve as a reminder of the justice that is long overdue to the Palestinian people.
“We are asking for the government not to let those responsible for Israel’s war crimes evade justice. Whilst Israel continues to steal Palestinian land in the West Bank, and lays siege to Gaza without fear of sanction from the international community, there will be no peace or justice for the people of Palestine.”
The petition, that was handed in Number 10 Downing Street said: “We demand the government:
* End Israel’s violations of international law, including ending its illegal occupation and building of settlements;
* End the siege on Gaza;
* Support bringing Israeli war criminals to justice – no attack on universal jurisdiction;
* Ban settlement goods;
* Suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement;
* End the arms trade with Israel.


photo: Protestors including former comedian Alexei Sayle at the picket