Israeli Activist Arrested for Providing Humanitarian Aid to Palestinians

Jeff Halper, a Jewish Israeli who joined the delegation of humanitarian activist in the Free Gaza campaign was arrested by Israeli authorities. The campaign involved two boats that sailed from Cyprus to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid and raise consciousness about the harsh conditions Palestinians are forced to live under in the Gaza Strip. The activist also accompanied Palestinians who usually get shot at when they attempt to fish in their waters. In an interview with Democracy Now Jeff emphasized the importance of an Israeli Jew being being part of the delegation. He also said “symbolically, my presence here is a taking of responsibility by Israelis for the occupation and for the siege and the oppression for which we put the Palestinians under.” He emphasized in the interview the importance of challenging the portrayal of Jewish people as always the “victims” and said “we’re not the weak party”. He is the founder of Israelis Against Home Demolitions and may be charged for his involvement with that group as well as involvement with other peaceful campaigns against Israeli government policy.

The activist were threatened several times as they were preparing to leave for Gaza. They were told that the boats would be fired upon. The home of Lauren Booth who participated in the action was called and told that the boat she was on would be blown up when it reached Gaza.