To the Editor,
Re: Nanaimo man on aid mission held by Israelis, Oct. 23.
The article in the Oct. 23 edition of the Bulletin quoted Nanaimo-Alberni MP James Lunney regarding Jim Manly’s part in the attempt to reach Gaza by boat.
Unfortunately, Lunney’s comments echo the thinking of the leadership that Canadians are now enduring. It’s no wonder that there is a natural alignment with the present leadership of Israel.
Lunney asserts that Israel trucks in goods daily to the Palestinians. The flow is controlled in volume and content which makes the Palestinians very subservient and dependent.
Would we put up with that? If you wish to contribute to Gaza one has to go through Israeli channels.
I don’t think being taken prisoner by armed forces in international waters is being well treated. It must be remembered that not long ago, a similar boat to Gaza had nine of its group shot to death by the Israeli boarding forces.
I am sure that the people of Gaza would prefer autonomy, independence and free movement in and out of their country instead of humanitarian relief, and not have to constantly fight the forced encroachment onto their lands and the destruction of their homes.
Phil Marchant
Gabriola Island