Repression of Palestinian May Day march unacceptable says TUC

Repression of Palestinian May Day march unacceptable says TUC

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has written to the Israeli Ambassador to the UK, Mr Ron Prosor, (copied below) protesting against the Israeli Defence Forces' harsh treatment of participants at a May Day rally held by the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions.

His Excellency Mr Ron Prosor
Embassy of Israel

Dear Ambassador,

Repression of PGFTU May Day demonstration

The TUC protests against the actions of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) in suppressing a peaceful demonstration by the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions (PGFTU) on May Day this year in Al Ma'asara, near Bethlehem.

We have learned that soldiers from the IDF placed barbed wire barriers at the front of the crowd, and launched noise grenades and teargas at the participants. The soldiers then proceeded to block surrounding roads, and launch more teargas canisters at the fleeing crowd. Many participants were injured, with some requiring hospital treatment. Three trade unionists and a journalist were also apprehended by the military.

These actions suggest that the Israeli government, rather than supporting and promoting such peaceful and democratic forces as the PGFTU, is repressing and harassing them.

I would be grateful if you could convey our concern to your government, and look forward to your comments on this matter.

Yours sincerely,

BRENDAN BARBER

General Secretary