LETTER: Misunderstanding over Pendle twinning with West Bank town

Sorry to write again so soon, but unless someone more directly involved does so it is necessary to clear up some misunderstandings.
By The Newsroom
Published 11th Feb 2013, 15:53 BST

The town with which twinning was suggested is in the West Bank area of the Palestinian territory. Hamas is not in control here, but in the southern region known as Gaza.

Israel has occupied areas of the West Bank illegally under international law, and built numerous settlements there. Israel has also constructed the Separation Barrier, in some places on Palestinian territory, and exerts control over the lives of Palestinians to a degree which none of us would take lying down.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

I do not condone violence anywhere but find it hardly surprising some Palestinians have been driven to use it, in spite of much greater force used by Israel in retaliation.

I can probably arrange for someone who has worked with the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel to talk to or with any group which wants to learn more about the reality of the situation on the ground if they call me on 864058.

PETER COPESTAKE

Castle Road, Colne

Related topics:PendleIsraelPalestinianHamasGazaColne