Jewish communities" "
The Jewish communities of Europe took to the streets in Brussels ” “to urge the EU ” “institutions for a greater commitment in the Middle East” “” “
A pan-European demonstration in support of the State of Israel and for peace in the Middle East took place in the streets of Brussels on 29 May. The event, sponsored by the European Jewish Congress, in collaboration with the Coordination of European Jewish communities and the Association of the Jews of Belgium, attracted thousands of people of Jewish religion but also many of other faiths from all over Europe and from the Holy land, united in sending a message of peace and brotherhood for the Middle East. We interviewed Ronny Naftaniel , the Dutch executive vice-president of the European Centre for Jewish information. What’s the significance of the demonstration in Brussels? “It’s the first demonstration in support of the State of Israel in Brussels, headquarters of the European institutions, and was characterized by the combined participation of Jews and non Jews. It’s also an acknowledgement of the fact that many of the decisions that concern the international community are now directly taken by the European Union”. What message was transmitted by the demonstration? “We wanted to send out a clear signal, saying that if cooperation is extended at the international level, it’s possible to solve many problems. Moreover, the demonstration wanted to express support to the State of Israel in its struggle against terrorism. But above all it was intended to avert the danger of the export of the tensions of the Middle East to Europe through aberrant attacks on synagogues and on individuals. The fundamental point that needs to be stressed is that Israel is on the side of those combating terrorism”. What could the EU do to help resolve the conflict? “It’s beyond question that the EU must do more than it has done so far. First of all, it must conduct a joint Middle-East policy with the USA: if there is a factor that is harmful to the situation in the Middle East it is precisely the division of the Western world that makes way for forms of opportunism and diversified alliances”. What solutions do you envisage? “Israel must accept the model that makes provision for two States with an independent Palestinian State, but this can only come about if there is peace. The Union ought to dedicate itself to transmitting this message. So long as terrorism continues, Palestine cannot have its own State”. G.A.G.
