IDF reservists combat BDS at British parliament
The Human Shields Special Testimonies Project organized the London event where IDF reservists spoke about their experience dealing with Palestinian terrorism and human rights violations committed in the West Bank
The Human Shields Special Testimonies Project organized an event at the British Parliament in London where IDF reservists spoke about their experience dealing with Palestinian terrorism and routine disturbances as well as the human rights violations committed daily in the West Bank. Some 20 MPs and about 50 others were in attendance.
The speakers from the HaEmet Sheli (My Truth) organization described the cynical exploitation of the Palestinian civilian population by terror organizations in order to harm soldiers and Israeli civilians. The organization's goal is to present the Israeli version of events before international bodies.
The event was hosted by MP Ian Austin who recently left the Labour party over anti-Semitic statements and decisions by chairman Jeremy Corbyn and others.
The Israeli delegation awarded Austin an appreciation certificate for his ardent support of the British-Israeli alliance and his commitment to democratic ideals. Austin mentioned the importance of first-hand accounts of the battle against Hamas which is orchestrating the weekly disturbances along the Gaza border for its own interests.
For some of the MP's, it was an opportunity to hear the other side of the Mideast conflict after years of exposure to one-sided propaganda by pro-Palestinian organizations. Some even asked the soldiers if they used white phosphorus, illegal under international law, against Palestinians in Gaza.
Former MP Michael McCann, director of the Israel Britain Alliance, said that the event is especially significant considering the anti-Israel rhetoric often heard in the halls of parliament.
"IDF soldiers will continue to be victorious, because the alternative is harming the lives of innocent Israeli civilians, and it does so by taking maximum care for the lives of those on both sides. this reality has been forced upon us since the founding of the state. We did not choose our battlefields and we do not use civilians and children as human shields. But as long as this reality if forced upon us, we will stand resolute and fulfill the mission," said Aviad Yisraeli, a reservist from the Giva'ati brigade reconnaissance unit.
