The Mayor of Hebron, Dr. Daoud Zatari, called upon the British Labor Party to exert pressure on the Israeli Authority to alleviate the sufferings of the citizens dwelling in the heart of Hebron's Old City as well as in areas adjacent to the settlements and Ibrahimi Mosque.
After welcoming the delegation, Dr. Zatari spoke about political and security conditions in the city, daily Palestinian suffering due to Israeli occupation and settler practices as well as attempts to displace the local population and to increase settlement activity.
He also touched on violations against Old City inhabitants which go against all international treaties and laws that call for the freedom of movement and worship.
He recalled the massacre committed in Al Ibrahimi Mosque in 1994 by an Israeli army doctor who opened fire inside the Mosque, killing 29 worshippers in the middle of the Holy month of Ramadan. This led to the closing down of Al Shuhada Street and to the unjust division of Al Ibrahimi mosque, he said.
Mayor Zatari underlined the necessity of touring at the Old City for the sake of getting a first-hand view of the citizens' suffering, and said that the International media doesn't reflect the reality on the ground as it always tends to adopt the Israeli points of view.
On their part, the delegation thanked the Mayor of Hebron for the warm reception and hospitality, and expressed their interest to have a tour the Old City in order to get a view of the Palestinians' suffering. They also hoped peace and justice would prevail in Palestine, and hoped the Palestinians living conditions would be improved.
After exchanging symbolic gifts, the delegation made a tour at the Old City.
28/5/2015