Courthouse Rally Set To Support Israel

The Jewish Federation of Rockland County plans on showing its support for Israel  and to voice hope for peace following the Gaza flotilla incident Sunday with a rally on Sunday at the Rockland County Courthouse in New City.

Israel  intercepted five ships in international waters bearing what was billed as humanitarian cargo to Gaza in violation of the blockade that has been in place since Israel evacuated Gaza in 2005. Israel contends the blockade was put in place to prevent the Hamas-run government in Gaza from receiving missiles and arms that are subsequently used on Israeli citizens.

When commandos boarded the sixth ship, soldiers reported they were attacked with knives, clubs, Molotov cocktails. The Israeli soldiers initially defended themselves with paintball guns and said they began to use live ammunition from pistols when they could not defend themselves from attackers. 

Several soldiers were disarmed and in the attack, nine members of the Turkish relief organization manning the ship were killed. The relief organization has known ties to Hamas, the terrorist organization that governs Gaza, that is sworn to Israel's destruction.

"While we always regret the loss of life, Israel had been clear that it would not allow the blockade to be broken," said Carol Blau, Federation president. "Israel allows humanitarian relief in.

"We support Israel and its efforts to renew dialogue with those who wish to truly recognize its right to exist and to become true peace partners," said Blau. "A rally is a chance for the community to show support for that."

The 4:30 p.m. rally at the courthouse is set to include local Jewish leaders and politicians voicing their support for Israel.