Published: 14 October, 2011

• IT is sad to see the letter from Jon Benjamin of the Board of Deputies of British Jews continue the campaign of smears against those who voice support for the human rights of the Palestinian people (Palestine festival: schools have backed our concerns, October 7).

As a Jewish resident, I would much rather the board were taking actions that could improve the chances of a just peace in the region rather than scaring off our schools from allowing respected children's authors like Michael Rosen discuss these issues.

In recent weeks, the Israeli government has announced that 30,000 Palestinian citizens of Israel are to be uprooted from their homes in the Negev. Where was the Board of Deputies statement then?

Mr Benjamin’s letter completely misrepresented the aims, objectives and work of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC).

I am a proud supporter of PSC, which is founded on clear and explicit principles of anti-racism, and urge all those who support those principles to join us.

Freedom and justice for Palestinians will ensure peace in the region.

The Israeli government’s continued assault on Palestinians, its illegal occupation and its violation of international law are unfortunately showing that it is unwilling to work towards peace.

BEN SOFFA
Ferntower Road, N5

• IT was rather misleading for the Board of Deputies of British Jews to claim it represents all British Jews.

I and other Jews living in Islington would have nothing to do with this partisan, sectarian and Israeli-apologist body. 

Having left Israel because of the apartheid against Palestinians, it is important for me to work with those objecting to racism of all forms.

One such group is the No to Veolia Action Group and if you are appalled by the Israeli illegal settlements then you can join us at 7.30pm on Monday, October 24, at the Regent pub in Liverpool Road.

YAEL KAHN
N1