Re: Prime Minister Harper’s visit to the Middle East
We were shocked and disturbed when we read, concerning Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s visit to the Middle East, his refusal to address Israel’s illegal and unjust conduct related to the illegal settlements in occupied Palestine — a direct violation of international law.
Forty per cent of the West Bank is now under direct control of settlers. Palestinians are being forced off their land for the ever-increasing illegal settlements. Harper made no mention of this, saying: “Canada supports the Israeli government without reservation.”
Palestinian children are being jailed for throwing stones at the tanks while Israel turns a blind eye to the settler violence, which according to the UN has almost quadrupled since 2006.
Harper says Canada and Israel are the “greatest of friends.” We concur with Thomas Woodley, president of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East, when he says: “A good friend levels with his friend when his friend’s conduct is illegal or unjust. Harper should do no less.”
Jeff and Shirley Challoner
Red Deer