| Dear Friends, We are writing to request your assistance in preempting international attempts to condemn Israel for alleged war crimes in Gaza. As in the days prior to the Goldstone investigation, Israel is currently being subjected to an intense and malicious propaganda campaign in the international media, including by leading international organizations and personalities. As anticipated, despite inherent justification for Israel's defensive actions against Hamas, the propaganda campaign is successfully swaying public opinion and creating a hostile anti-Israel climate. Needless to say, these sentiments also serve to fuel anti-Semitism in countries around the world, including attacks on local Jewish communities. The current media and UN attacks on Israel are a clear sign that we are heading towards a replay of the Goldstone Report affair. As you undoubtedly recall, in the aftermath of Israel's Operation Cast Lead in 2009, the UN investigated and condemned Israel for war crimes, sending shock-waves of anti-Israel and anti-Semitic feelings throughout the world. Although Richard Goldstone later recanted, the damaged had already been done. It is our collective responsibility to prevent this from happening. Our concerted efforts now can thwart the condemnation of Israel and the subsequent fermentation of intense hatred towards Israel and the Jewish People. The attached legal brief, written by Alan Baker, former Israeli ambassador to Canada, summarizes pertinent legal issues, detailing the extent of war crimes committed by Hamas as well as Israel's extraordinary efforts to abide by international humanitarian laws. The Legal Forum for Israel urges all jurists, as well as its supporters who are not jurists, to use this paper in their interactions with politicians, media, legislators, community leaders, and the general public, whether through op-ed pieces, media interviews, or other means. Furthermore, the Legal Forum's International Action Division is establishing a global task force of jurists and legal experts with the aim of protecting Israel from legal attacks waged in the international legal arena. If you would like to join the effort and the Legal Forum International Action Division please review the attached legal brief and outline of suggested methods of action. Furthermore, please contact Einat Korman at office@haforum.org.il for assistance and coordination. Sincerely, Nachi Eyal Executive Director |
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