The fact is that there is no famine or humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The area is under the control of Hamas, a terrorist organization that has declared its aim to destroy Israel and countinues to arm itself with weapons and rockets for this purpose; it has attacked Israeli civilians shamelessly and continues to hold captive an Israeli soldier, in contravention of international law. Accordingly, Israel stands on its natural right to inspect all cargo entering Gaza.
So, let us ask again, why let the flotilla pass through to Gaza?
The blockade notice as published by Israel in 2009
- What was the purpose of the flotilla?
The entire flotilla was designed as a media stunt and political provocation by elements that are hostile to Israel, primarily the IHH - a violent, extremist group which supports terrorist organizations under the guise of humanitarian activity. IHH history of support for terrorism
Prior to departure, the 'peace activists' sing about killing Jews
The Israeli Navy addresses a ship nearing the Gaza shore, offering it to dock at the Ashdod Port and transfer its supplies under the ship's crew's supervision. The ship refused to comply.
The Flotilla organizers not only rejected this offer, but stated clearly that (and I quote) "this mission is not about delivering Humanitarian supply, but rather about breaking the Israeli siege "as Greta Berlin, a flotilla spokesperson told the media last week.
What kind of Humanitarian activists demand to bypass the United Nations, the Red Cross, and other internationally recognized agencies?
What kind of peace activists use knives, clubs and other weapons to attack soldiers who board a ship in accordance with international law?
What kind of Humanitarian activists, some with known terrorist history, embrace Hamas, a terrorist organization that openly shuns a two state solution and calls for Israel destruction, defying conditions set by the international community and the Quartet. The answer is clear: they are not peace activists; they are not messengers of good will. They cynically use a humanitarian platform to send a message of hate and to implement violence. (taken from the Israel's UN address)
- Why was the operation in international waters?
Any concerns about the legal aspects of the operation? Actually there is nothing that prevents the operation being in international waters.
See below 3 sources:
I. Legal Points - The Gaza Flotilla and the Maritime Blockade of Gaza [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
II. United Nations convention on the law of the sea;
Agreement relating to the implementation of part xi of the convention
Part II territorial sea and contiguous zone
III. The US Commander's Handbook on the Law of Naval Operations
7.7.4 Breach and Attempted Breach of Blockade (Capture of such vessels is discussed in paragraph 7.10.)
- Why were there casualties?
Passengers on one of the six boats initiated violent clashes
Israel regrets the loss of human lives, but responsibility lies with the organizers and participants of the flotilla who initiated the violence.
While boarding on of the vessels, IDF soldiers were physically attacked with live ammunition and other weapons, including knives and clubs, which had been prepared in advance. A weapon belonging to one of soldiers was snatched and, apparently, fired on IDF forces.
During the course of the incident, when their lives were put in danger, IDF soldiers were compelled to employ means to disperse demonstrations, including live weapons.
See the following video: Israeli Navy Soldier Describes the Violent Mob Aboard Mavi Marmara
Article: It did not have to be like this: http://www.standwithus.com/app/iNews/view_n.asp?ID=1444
- Why will Israel always lose the blame game?
Because Israel is seen as the powerful state in the region, even though it is a tiny piece of land surrounded by countless enemies.
Because the story of suffering is always a good story, especially if it can be depicted as one which is wrongfully so
Because it is good for the consciousness of many (unfortunately) around the world and clears them of their own guilt from the past
Because it acts as a responsible sovereign state and not a guerilla organization
Because there is freedom of press, freedom of expression, and democracy in Israel; it is not an authoritarian rule which dictates what should and what should not be allowed to be aired.
Because Israel does not cynically use the press in conveying unfounded 'truths'
Because who wants to portray the Palestinians as the aggressors and take on the whole Muslim world?
So, it is not always that people do not know the truth, sometimes it is more convenient not to know the truth.
Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon presents Israel's position to the media – very few foreign journalists were in attendance
Israel, on its end, will continue to express its desire for peace and extend its hand to all those who are willing to engage. This however, does not mean that it is ready to commit political and military suicide in order to satisfy the wishes the Hamas regime in Gaza.
