On October 11, Abdallah Abu Rahmah was sentenced by an Israeli military tribunal to 12 months in prison for his involvement in the non-violent popular struggle against the wall and the settlements in Bil'in.Abdallah Abu Rahmah, the coordinator of the Popular Committee for non-violent resistence was arrested last year by soldiers in a night raid at his home. He was then arraigned in an Israeli military court on charges that were without any basis, including having thrown stones at soldiers during a demonstration and possessing weapons.
Abu Rahmah was cleared of both these charges but found guilty of having organised illegal demonstrations and having incited people to participate. Abu Rahma's case is an example of the Israeli military legal system that operates in the West Bank, and which has the clear aim of silencing the legitimate political dissent of the population.
The conviction has been strongly criticised at international level: Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foriegn Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, expressed her concern "the possible imprisonment of Mr Abu Rahma is intended to prevent him and other Palestinians from exercising their legitimate right to protest against the existence of the separation barriers in a non violent manner."
EU diplomats were present at all the hearings of the trial. Catherine Ashton's statement was followed by a similar statement from the Spanish parliament.
Unfortunately, the Italian government has not made any such declaration. The American group , Jewish Voices for Peace, have organised a letter writing campaign aimed at many governments, including Italy.
Click here to send a letter to Franco Frattini.
"Freedom' - Without Walls, Without Borders"
....is written on the banner held by activists during a protest in the centre of Tel Aviv for the liberation of all political prisoners.
