Dear Friends,
As the Gaza conflict continues to expand, we are confronted by one of the more complex and difficult periods that Israeli society has experienced in many years. Continuing hostilities and the increasing loss of human life causes us much sorrow and concern, and yet we are committed to remaining vigilant against human rights abuses and to reducing the harm caused to innocent civilians affected by the conflict. It is during times of war especially that human rights become more important than ever.
We are also witnessing worrying levels of incitement to racism and violence inside Israel and a sustained attack on free expression and the right to protest. It is in these two fields that most of ACRI's wartime activties are focused.
Shelters for Bedouin Villages - A week ago ACRI submitted an expedited petition against the lack of protective facilities for Bedouin communities in the Negev. Tragedy has already visited these communities as a result of their neglect.
Unfortunately, the High Court of Justice refused to intervene in the State defensive policy, or lack thereof, for the Bedouin villages. Despite this, the Justices did find that there was cause to re-evaluate the country's long term preparedness in this area and ordered the State to provide an update within 30 days.
Human Rights in the Gaza Strip and the Laws of War - Following the entry of ground forces into Gaza and the mounting death toll among Palestinian civilians, ACRI, together with its partners organizations, has called for:
Immediate action to enable the evacuation of the wounded in Gaza;
The prevention of the collapse of essential infrastructure, including water and electricity; and
A re-evaluation of the offensive policy and the rules of engagement to decrease instances of collateral damage.
In our appeals to the defence establishment and the Attorney-General we emphasized that the IDF must act according to international humanitarian law that prohibits intentional attacks on civilians or damage to their property. We further reinforced the notion that violations of the laws of war by the opposing party to a conflict do not warrant or justify the violation of Israel’s obligations under the laws of war.
Free Speech and Incitement to Violence - At the same time as we are dealing with the use of force in Gaza, we are working to ensure free expression within Israel by combating the tendency to silence controversy and criticism surrounding warfare. ACRI contacted the Attorney-General following unacceptable statements by senior government ministers against the legitimacy of protest during times of war. Israel's elected leaders must remember that attacking free speech may be politically expedient, but it will be disastrous for democracy.
While the Gaza operation continues to draw public attention, ACRI continues to promote the full spectrum of human and civil rights and is proud to report successes relating to the right to health and the right to housing.
While these last few weeks have brought new and confronting challenges, ACRI's team is dedicated to protecting human rights and maintaining Israel's democracy. May we know no more difficult times as these.
With warm wishes,
Sharon Abraham-Weiss
Executive Director
Association for Civil Rights in Israel