ESRA'A AL SHAFEI, BAHRAIN: Reactions to Israeli attack on flotilla.

Dear friends,

We in Bahrain are absolutely appalled. Prominent journalists are being attacked despite their clear press vests and badges. Some Israelis who are protesting this inhumane cruelty were being blocked by Israeli police to reach their destinations, and some were even violently provoked and beaten up. It is imperative to remain united against violence in these difficult times. I think what Robi is doing is especially important.

Unfortunately, as Arab activists we are consistently dismissed as biased by the mainstream media, and as protesters we are being labeled as hateful anti-Semites, despite having various Arab Jews amongst us in these protests. It is clear that none of this has to do with religion, but the media is framing it as such, allowing few people to understand the threat and impact of these killings. Those aid ships are being labeled as "an armada of hate." These labels and stigmas stand in the way of any hopes for peaceful dialogue and understanding.

Please guide us as to what we can do to help.

Please remain standing for justice, no matter what.


Best,
Esra'a
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Esra'a al Shafei, Director, Mideast Youth