"Discrediting" Israel

El Universal February 23,2010

Beatriz W. De Rittigstein recently posted an opinion article concerning Israel. She mentions that while there are humanitarian tragedies due to extreme Islam, everyone focuses on how to create propaganda that distorts Israel's actions in order to "discredit" them. Rittigstein goes on to say that while there are no protests against the persecution of dissidents in Iran, massacres in Sudan, or the limited rights of women in Iran there are always protests against Israel. People, "with great cynicism", have the nerve to compare Israel to an apartheid while in Cuba the leaders keep their citizens separated without liberty or movement as they provide tourists with every amenity they need. Rittegenstein concludes saying that sadly the left and radical Islam, use anti- Israel comments to mask their anti-semitism. All they do is "manipulate" the circumstances for their own convenience and to satisfy their own interest.
This article is a breath of fresh air for the anti-semitic environment that exists within Venezuela. Rittigstein was brave enough to stage her opinion in the national newspaper and make an important point which is why does everyone focus all their attention upon Israel, who does things correctly, and not on the inhumane actions of countries such as Iran or Cuba? Rittigstein's conclusion points to the fact that people are simply masking their anti-semitism with anti- Israel sentiment. This is exactly the issue within Venezuela. While some may say that it is anti- Israel many of the articles point to being anti-semitic. While it is small in the scheme of things, hopefully Rittigenstein's article will make a point to El Universal's readers that journalists should stop spending so much time trashing Israel and start looking at the many other world issues that are facing us today.
Link to Original article:http://opinion.eluniversal.com/2010/02/23/opi_art_desacreditar-a-israe_1764476.shtml

Diplomatic Storm Created after Murder of Hamas Leader

February 19- Aporrea
According to recent news, the assassins used advanced technology to enter the hotel and fled Dubai less than 24 hours after the murder of Hamas leader, Mahmud Al Mabhuh. These new findings, according to Aporrea, all reveal the professionalism of the attack.Hamas has revealed several suspects; one from Britain, five from Ireland, one from Germany, and one from France. Neither Ireland or Germany says these passports were stamped when going to Dubai. Slowly, the international community has begun pointing to Israel. As a result France has asked for an "explanation" from Israel, while Great Britain has asked that their Israeli Ambassador and his government "completely cooperate" with the ongoing investigation. While in Europe there is just diplomatic pressure in Dubai the accusations have been much more direct. As the leader of the police department, Dahi Jalfan says," I am 99 percent sure, if not 100 percent sure that this was an action of the Mossad." He went on to say that their records directly link Israel to the murder. Israel has dismissed the accusations, saying that they think it could have been a plot staged by the Palestinians in order to place the blame on Israel. The article concludes saying that Israel has the strong hand against them, going on to cite six events where Israeli spies were sent abroad: Norway, Cyprus, Jordan,Switzerland, and Cyprus again.
Aporrea once again stays upon their common anti- Israel path in this article. They reveal the accusations yet they barely touch upon what Israel has to say about the situation. When they finally do mention that Israel thinks this may be a plot against them, they turn around and accuse them once again by citing examples where Israel has either sent agents to spy or murder. This article twists the event in order to lead viewers to relate more to the Palestinian plight and raise doubts about Israel's actions.
Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/actualidad/n151370.html

Aporrea: "Isreal Destroyed Civilain Property with Military Vehicles"

February 19

Aporrea, the government supported newspaper of Venezuela, reported that this past Thursday military vehicles entered the private territory of Gaza to destroy everything. This action came just hours after a Hamas group promised to avenge the death of their leader Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh in Dubai. Israel violated their pact, entering the frontier through the central zone,near the Deir Al- Balah barrier, and continued 200 meters only to destroy everything in their path. A few hours later, Israel was attacked by Palestinian explosives, who were "provoked" by the Israeli anti-tank munitions and artillery. Palestinian leaders have vowed to attack Israel due to the murder of Mabhouh. As Abu Obeida, a Palestinian leader says "All the assassins can do now is wait." The Palestinians say that there are eleven suspects that used European passport to enter Dubai in order to commit the murder.
This article is completely one-sided. It presents the Palestinians again as the victims in the situation. As it says, they were "provoked" to take action after Israel entered their territory. Yet the article fails to mention that in fact Israel was the one provoked to defend itself due to the terrorist planning that is currently occurring on the Palestinian forefront.It also victimizes the civilians living in the territory, although the majority of them are linked to Hamas. This article is detrimental to the national perspective of Israel because it refers to them as murderers without a cause.
LINK TO ORIGINAL ARTICLE:http://www.aporrea.org/internacionales/n151392.html

Israel in its absolute form

In Aporrea last week the writer Eduardo Guerrero wrote an opinion piece on Israel. The result was a four page criticism where Guerrero delineates Israel's mistakes throughout history. Guerrero begins by saying that Israel was born and developed around terrorism and a "false" memory. This "terrorist" war that Israel has created is fueled by American and European support and indifference. The "genocide" in Gaza is clear yet no one has done anything to stop it. Guerrero compares the streets of Gaza to the hell Primo Levy described in Auschwitz.The elections in the government are twisted according to Guerrero because by forbidding Arab political parties they are excluding 20% of the country's vote. He dismisses claims that Israel is the only "democracy in the middle east" saying they are simply militaristic. The article then criticizes "hypocritical" Spain for defending Israel against the attacks made against them during Cast Lead and providing them with arms to stage this "genocide". Guerrero creates this strong alliance between them inciting that they are working together in a negative fashion. In the end he says this situation must be dealt with labeling it the "moral struggle" of our generation.
Recently I wrote about an article that differentiated between anti-Israel and anti-semitic. The fine line that exists between them and separates them. That fine line is definitely broken by Guerrero. He does have the power to criticize Israel even though his assumptions are poorly rooted, yet the fact that he said the state was created by a false history directly criticizes and offends the Jewish community.Also an event as scarring and atrocious as the Holocaust should never be used in a comparison because the destruction and tragedy is on a different level than anything else we have seen in history thus far.Guerrero has no sensitivity towards the Jewish community in this aspect. This article does great damage to Venezuela's perception of Israel because it attacks them as a country and a government and questions their existence. If Venezuelans are to only read these one-sided articles their perception is very narrow and obviously they in effect will also begin to criticize Israel's actions.
Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/internacionales/a95009.html

Israel and Uncle Sam

In a recent Aporrea article Rofelio Duc criticized the way Israel has been acclaimed for assisting the situation in Haiti. Duc says that yes while a "bravo" may be said,Israel should not be placed on a pedestal for their actions. Duc claims that Venezuela,Israel and other countries have worked together to improve the situation in Haiti. While Israel did not hesitate to respond quickly and arrive with great technology, create temporary hospitals, and bring in surgeons, nurses and paramedics Duc says that the international community should not "exaggerate". For Israel, "It is not necessary to pass an ocean and travel more then 10,000 km by plane for Israeli medics to find themselves in such a grave humanitarian crisis." According to Duc all Israel has to do is look at their past, referring to Operation Cast Lead. Duco says while a "bravo" may be said no one should forget to bring "Ehud Olmert, Tzipi Livni and Ehud Barak" to the international court to be tried for the "crimes against humanity" they committed just a year ago.
This article shows just how far some media outlets will go to bring Israel down. While at the beginning Duc does recognize that Israel has done a good job in Haiti, he immediately focuses back the attention to Israel's negative past with his far- fetched comparison. He lessens the significance of their humanitarian work that has been so instrumental to the assistance of Haiti's citizens while they rebuild their destructed communities. This is a common media tactic with Israel, to draw away from their achievements so that Israel will never receive the support they need and deserve. Venezuelan media outlets are particularly skilled in their criticism and that is why the anti- Israel sentiment has increased significantly in recent years.
Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/internacionales/a95009.html

Aporrea discusses Iran's plans to destroy Israel

Freddy Yepez, of the government supported Aporrea newspaper, reported that according to Ali Jamenel, the leader of Iran said that the Middle east "will one day assist the destruction of Israel". The reason they say is because zionism represents a huge danger to the Muslim world. Yepez mentions "with all respect to Islam and Iran" that both religions represent a danger to world because within them no capitalist regime exists. This Yepez believes is the solution to the problem. He says the first solution is to create a system not based on religion but rather on Marxism. He says that the world functions because of the struggle within the classes, it should not be based off religion at all. He then goes on to speak about the concept Marx had about the Jews, saying that if the Jews spread their wealth they get from the "Jewish God" there would not be as many issues. Zionism,according to Yepez, has reached its maximum imperialistic and capitalistic point. Everything that exists within Israel is "atrocious" and they rely on the unconditional support provided to them by America. Zionism is the "general of capitalistic imperialism" within the Middle East. Yepez makes the realization that Israel cannot be destroyed due to its close ties with America, but suggests another Marxist solution and that is to destroy the borders of Israel. If the borders of Israel are destroyed, capitalism will be eliminated and socialism will reign throughout the world.
This article is not only anti-semitic rather revolutionary. Yepez is a marxist who believes that socialism will solve the issues facing the world today. This pro-government newspaper is trying to reach out to its readers in order to bring about international reform, yet they do not realize how unrealistic their plan is. Yepez criticizes Israel and the Jews throughout the article, in effect blaming them for the capitalistic system that exists within the world today.
Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/ideologia/a95077.html

Washington Post discusses Venezuela's grim future

March 26,2009

The Venezuelan community has been under significant pressure under President Chavez "revolutionary" government. The main Sephardi synagogue was vandalized, Hebraica -a social, sport club and school- was twice intervened by the police, the Israeli Embassy was closed, and anti-israeli and anti-semitic graphite are widespread. Now it has even spread to the performing arts. The state- sponsored Gran Mariscal de Ayacucho Orchestra withdrew from performing the acclaimed classic Fiddler on the roof. The Orchestra's conductor claimed," We receive financial aid from the government, and the given the current situation we prefer not to participate in a play that has Jewish content." This anti-semitic action comes as no surprise following the many other recent actions of the Venezuelan Government. In 2004 the government staged an attack on the private Jewish School where police led a search for weapons. During the 2006 UN memorial to Auschwitz victims, Venezuela was the only country who twisted it around in order to make it a forum for the Palestinian plight. During Christmas time, Chavez blamed the "Christ killers" for all of the country's problems.The situation escalated with the recent attack on the synagogue.In March rumors emerged that Chavez was creating an alliance with Hezbollah in order to kidnap Jewish travelers in the international airport for ransom. In any of these cases the message is clear, the situation has gone too far and Chavez needs to be stopped before anything else happens.
While this article was written a few months ago, it continues to stress the dangerous situation that the Jews are living in. Even a simple night of culture, has been stripped away from them. There have not necessarily been headlines about the Jewish community recently, but there has definitely been action going on behind the scenes. As I continue to speak to my family, they tell me the situation is getting worse and worse. There has been a rise in kidnappings and the government is nationalizing companies in an attempt to control the market. Besides the deteriorating situation for the Jews, the economy is collapsing and simple things like milk have started to disappear off of the grocery store shelves. The quality of life has gone down significantly and that is why there is a huge wave of emigration, particularly from the Jewish community.
Link to Original Article: http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2009/03/precarious_future_of_jews_in_venezuela.html

VEA blames CIA and Mossad Agents for leading facist Youth movements

In Chuao, Brazil there was a press conference held concerning the recent "aggressions" conducted by the fake fascist opposition students. Hector Rodriquez, a student who attends the croup criticized the police force and the college for not stopping the group saying they caused the deaths of two men and increased violence on campus. "These individuals could be trained to create terror in different sectors." He went on to claim that the real students were studying and that these people were posing as students when in reality they were fascist leaders. The article went on to mention that this would happen under Brazilian's new ambassador Thomas Shanon.
The article VEA is notoriously anti-semitic and Chavista. They clearly took this student's words out of context because in no place in his quote was there mention that the CIA or the Mossad was involved in the on-campus violence. VEA decided to pin it on the Israeli's and American's because we are easy targets, yet with no proof their article is very unreliable. They also go on to criticize Shanon because of his previous work with Venezuela. Between 1996 and 1999 he was the political counselor for Venezuela at the U.S. embassy. He was appointed to office by President Obama. The Chavistas disagree with everything democratic in affect everything American and this is why they decided to blame Shanon for the wrongdoings of the students.
LINK TO ORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://www.google.co.il/#hl=en&ei=wm1yS6WCD4214Qb46-neCQ&sa=X&oi=spell&resnum=0&ct=result&cd=1&ved=0CBAQBSgA&q=thomas+shannon+brazil&spell=1&fp=7d93c68b1906d67c

Sammy Eppel Predicted the Grave Future of the Jews in Venezuela

Miami Herald January 09,2008

The Venezuelan Jewish community became concerned that the government was supporting national anti-semitism. Sammy Eppel mentions that, "The situation we have now in Venezuela is that for the first time in modern history we have government-sponsored anti-semitism in a Western country. He went on to say,"That is why it is very,dangerous not just for the Jewish Community in Venezuela but the for the Jewish Community as a whole." Eppel mentioned a pattern of the government attacking Jewish institutions and the religion in general. The ADL has condemned the Venezuelan government for their blatant anti-semtism and for making the Jews a "target for intimidation".
This is interesting because it was one of the first articles I found that directly blamed the government for the existing anti-semitism. Sammy Eppel always speaks up for the Jewish Community so it is fitting that he was involved with this. His international call to action, however, unfortunately was not heard and the country still lives in this threatening environment. The need for assistance has increased greatly since two years ago and it is now more crucial than ever that the international community step in.
Link to Original Article:www.humanrightsfoundation.org/news/010908_MH.pdf -

Freedom of Expression at Risk in Venezuela

January 31, 2010 El Universal
Workers and supporters of banned cable station RCTV will continue to fight and "will not negotiate principles" said participants of the RCTV ceremony last week. Participating were Roman Catholics, Protestants and Jews,those religions commonly persecuted by the Venezuelan Government. After the TV station was cancelled, RCTV internacional was established in order to reach supporters, yet this effort was also quickly halted. The student movement was actively involved in the cause. As one student, Adriana Mendoza, wished"for a country where everyone can speak without dear;wear one color or another without fear of causing trouble;can watch,read or listen to the media they want rather than the media imposed by the government." Marcelieno Bisbal, director of Graduate Studies at Universidad Catolica in Caracas mentioned that Chavez "has a deep fear of independent media" because it shows the "incompetence and inefficiency of his administration". This explains why he continues to criticize the protest in an effort to surpress the opposition.
This protest represents the unity that the Venezuelans are currently feeling against Chavez. There were many events that led up to this strong opposition- the weak economy, lack of power and lack of resources- the shutting down of RCTV was just the trigger for the inevitable. This is a step in the right direction for the citizens of Venezuela. They are raising their voices against the corruption of the Venezuelan government. They are fighting for their freedom of expression, a right that should have never been taken by the government.
Link to Original Article: http://english.eluniversal.com/2010/02/05/en_ing_esp_freedom-of-expressio_05A3396975.shtml

To Leave or not to Leave?

Jerusalem Post February 29,2008
On the eve of the National Referendum, while people were celebrating a wedding at the Union Iraelita Synagogue, police broke through Hebraica in order to search the premises for weapons and explosives of which they found none. This attack received very little international media attention. There had been a similar raid two years before, with the same result. Chavez accused Jewish leaders of leading and financing opposition protest saying that," I am not going to be blamed for being anti-Semite." One Venezuelan Jewish community member said that people are not leaving Caracas for the same reason no one left Germany "denial". The community had held a protest against the Iranian embassy criticizing Ahmadinejad's Holocaust Denial. They were so scared to do so, however, that the protest was held in silence. People were starting to flee in large numbers at the time, but again not to Israel as the author recalls. He says that the failure of aliyah is not only Israel's fault but also the Venezuelan Community, who are literally "trapped" by the challenges that face their country and their dangerous surroundings. A few years ago, Ze'ev Boim attempted to create a plan as minister of immigrant absorption, to bring Venezuelans to Israel but it was never put into effect. There is a disinclination of wealthier Jews to emigrate because as Robert Kulkha Kohn mentions "You could never live like this anywhere else".
I think this article is good although it was written two years ago because it addresses the current issue that faces all Venezuelan Jews which is to leave or not to leave. Most of them do not want to abandon their comfortable lifestyles to move somewhere else, especially the age group of 40-60, who would have difficulty finding employment. The other big issue is this idea of denial. If you go to Hebraica, the Jewish Community Center you would never expect that things were as serious as they are. People within the community and the school there look very calm and happy. Yet outside of the walls the fear permeates throughout their lives, whether it is driving at night or doing a simple thing like walking to synagogue. You have to think about doing simple tasks. This is why many have left for places like Miami, as my cousin tells me she has a new Venezuelan member of her class monthly.People need to stop denying and realize the dangerous reality they are living in.
Link to Original Article: http://findarticles.com/p/news-articles/jerusalem-post/mi_8048/is_20080229/jewish-communities-lose-voices/ai_n47382493/

Iton Gadol warns ho the Venezuelan Economic Crisis will affect the Jewish Community

Iton Gadol January 1, 2010

Iton Gadol, the Jewish community newspaper in Argentina, reported that the economic crisis has forced the Jewish community to reevaluate the threatening situation and think about emigration to Israel. Sammy Eppel mentioned that the crisis "will impact the Jewish Community", both economically and socially. The bank crisis, the energy crisis and the political anxiety that lives in Venezuela is increasing on a day to day basis. Eppel affirmed that "everyone is suffering the same issues" not just the Venezuelans. Eppel says that this may influence aliyah numbers, "A problematic situation of this type brings as a consequence people searching for a plan B, but up until this moment they had not executed it because they thought the situation would change", which clearly it has not. Eppel said it was difficult to come up with numbers of those making aliyah, since the crisis has only been occurring for about a month, yet he definitely thinks the numbers will rise. Although ties were cut off between Venezuela and Israel, the Canadian Embassy is assisting those who wish to make Aliyah. Eppel mentioned again that this is a national problem that does not only affects the Jews, and he is awaiting to see what social consequences this emigration will have.
The economic crisis has served as a trigger to convince people to leave Venezuela. The community is starting to realize that there is not much future for them there and are therefore starting to leave in large numbers. It will be interesting to see if the numbers of Aliyah from Venezuela actually rise, since from what I know most people are making their way to America. If there is a large emigration flux to Israel it will be intriguing to see how the community establishes themselves here. Either way, the Jewish community has made the realization that the situation is grave and they must leave.
Link to Original Article: http://www.itongadol.com.ar/shop/detallenot.asp?notid=28728

Sammy Eppel: Who is he? What does his work mean for the Venezuelan Jewish Community?

Sammy Eppel has been a reporter since 1994. His very opinionated articles have appeared en El Universal,NoticieroDigital, Venezuela Analitica and the Miami Herald. He is also a member of the World Press Review. Sammy Eppel is one of the biggest representatives and allies of the Jewish Community in the Press World. His articles support Judaism and Israel, trying to ward off the many anti-semitic attacks that exist today in Venezuela. He is a an active member of the Confederation of Israeli Associations of Venezuela.
Sammy Eppel is the one beam of light that exists in Venezuela. His articles are some of the only within Venezuela that look upon the Jews favorably. He also fights off those who criticize the Jewish Community making sure he provides the accurate and truthful information. His work provides a voice and hope for the members of the community that the situation will get better.
Link to Original Article: http://www.eppel.net/

Claims that Venezuela is doing Fake Conversions to help Emigrants

February 15,2008

The Israeli Community of Venezuela informed officials that they were going to do an investigation on the large rise of religious conversions to Judaism in Venezuela. They believe some people have been converting as an easier way to emigrate to Israel. El Universal said that Pynchas Brener, the head rabbi of the Israeli Union in Caracas, told reporters he does not believe fake conversions are occurring and that he did not know the man detained in Tel Aviv or the Rabbi that confirmed that specific conversion. In the past few years about 200 Venezuelans have immigrated to Israel with these "fake" conversions. The man detained in Tel Aviv,was a representative of the Jewish Agency who admitted to being involved in the plot. The detained employee went on to say that he was simply assisting the Rabbi in charge. The Jerusalem Report mentioned that the employee simply wanted to be seen as productive and therefore endorsed these fake conversions. Both El Universal and Ha'aretz said people converted because of the economic situation in Venezuela and the benefits they could enjoy from the Jewish Agency once they arrived in Israel.Most of the Venezuelan Jews live in Ramle. Israel is investigating the Absorption and Interior Ministries of Israel in order to understand how such a large number of false converts made their way over.
This article displays a frightening trend. Conversion in Judaism is one of the best things people can do, when done correctly. These people are not only giving a bad name to Judaism, but also discouraging Israel from accepting more Jews in the future. It is interesting that during such time of anti-semitism some people would rather be Jewish, just to escape the situation.
Link to Original Article:http://www.groundreport.com/World/False-Conversions-to-Judaism-in-Venezuela-force-th/2855621

Anti-Semitism vs. Anti- Imperialism

Venezuela Analysis February 12, 2008

In this article the author James Sugget, tries to stress the difference that he sees between anti- semitism and anti- imperialism. He begins the article by mentioning that two prominent Rabbi's of the Venezuelan Jewish community attended and assisted the attempted coup d'etat of President Chavez in 2002. He wanted to point out that the Jews are "actively participating" in the opposition movement. La Hojilla a pro- Chavez television station displayed a scene of a February 3 protest in which the leader of the protest was the brother of one of the prominent Rabbi's. Sugget denounces the idea that these media outlets are anti-semitic rather they are opposed to the opposition actions. He believes that anti- semitism is commonly "erroneously conflated with anti-semitism". His first example looks at the police search of the Jewish school and community center, Hebraica. This search was fueled by the murder of Venezuelan Federal Prosecutor, Danilo Anderson under specific evidence cited by the Venezuelan government that suggested that "some" collaborators were members of the Venezuelan Jewish Community. There was the suspicion that the owner of Globovision, Federico Alberto Ravel, was collaborating with a wealthy businessmen from Hebraica to assassinate Chavez. To Sugget no one can claim that the searches were "inexplicable" because there were clearly suggestions of subversive actions. Even newspapers like Vea which claims the Mossad was involved,is not anti-semitic rather just bias.The attacks on the school were followed with the accusation that Tarek El Aissami, the Vice President of Citizen security, initiated the attack. Sugget says this accusation came just because the Jews were angry by his appointment to office. Sugget says that the actions of the Jewish community are clearly more relevant to why the search occurred and he goes on to add that the search was "not illegal nor was it carried out improperly". Sugget now refers to the Pro-government media discussing how many people confuse anti- Israel feelings with anti-semitism. He refers to pictures which appeared in the pro- Government newspaper, A Plena Voz which included, the image of the star of David with a Swastika,an Israeli flag with a swastika in the middle and a star of David with a Swastika in the middle. He says the target of these articles are not the Jews rather Israel. He mentions that he believes there should be a difference made between the Israeli government and the Israeli people. He then goes on to denounce newspapers like Vea for referring to Jews and Israeli soldiers interchangeably and for clear anti-semitism. He also condemns the anti-semitic graffiti that surrounds Venezuela.
Although Sugget becomes more sympathetic towards the Jews at the end of his article, he is clearly misinformed. He makes it seem as though the issue is black and white, yet in most cases the truth is that there is a large wave of anti-semitism. The raid may have been provoked by the actions of the Jewish leaders but it did not need to be done on school property, disrupting the children.Even he said there was evidence that "some" Jews were involved, the whole community should not have been affected. The fact that they blamed an Arab leader is not uncommon and not far-fetched.Chavez has filled the seats in his government, with very publicly anti-semitic figures that would want the Jewish Community destroyed. The swastika is an image that is offensive to Jews no matter what, even if it is used in an anti- Israel context, the suffering the Jews experienced is incomparable to anything occurring around the world. Sugget has to realize that even though there may be a sense of anti- Imperialism, the sense of anti- semitism around society is much stronger and more powerful. Anti- Israel or not, they are still criticizing a crucial element of the Jewish people and attacking the community indirectly. It does not matter what their original intention was, the government's inability to suppress the pro- government media, suggests that they support their anti- semitic statements, making the situation ever more dangerous for the Jewish community.
Link to Original Article:http://www.venezuelanalysis.com/analysis/3148

Telesur discusses hows Israel used White Phosphorus

Telesur February 2,2010

Telesur had a short clip in which it confirmed the fact that Israel used white phosphorus in attacks against the Palestinians during Operation Cast Lead. White Phosphorus is specifically forbidden by the United Nations. The clip said that two high ranking officials of the air force who used this type of weaponry, which murdered three people, were being "disciplined". Danny Ayalon, the Vice Chancellor of Israel, went on to comment saying that Israel has no need to receive international approval and that they still hold themselves to the "highest moral standard", evident through their punishment of these two officials. Ayalon went on to reject the claims made in the Goldstone Report saying it is a "sham" and extremely "unprofessional". The clip mentioned the fact that 1400 people were murdered during the Operation.
The release of this statement has sparked controversy all over the world, but particularly in anti-Israel countries because it is just another technique to use against them. In Venezuela this revelation has been detrimental to the Jews because it has increased national anti- Israel sentiment and strengthened Israel's identity as the aggressor.
Link to Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJUy9wXnwyo&feature=player_embedded#

Aporrea: Israeli Criminals may not Remain Unpunished

January 20, 2010

The Ambassador of Palestine in Venezuela, Farid Suwwan, exclaimed, "Just like the Nazi criminals were taken to international tribunals and punished for their actions, the massacre of Israel against the Palestinian state must go down the same way for there to be justice and peace in the Middle East." This statement comes one year following Operation Cast Lead in Gaza which left 1,434 Palestinians dead, including women and children.Aporrea claims that the Israeli Army violence has yet to cease. In recent days, at least three Palestinians were murdered on the Gaza border, through air attacks, something that worries diplomatic representatives because it implies Israel wants the conflict to continue. Suwwan said that Israel was violating the Oslo accords and has refused to negotiate while still continuing their violent attacks. Meanwhile, the U.N. human rights council has gotten involved to assist the Judicial process. Suwwan remembers that Obama said in his speech in Cairo that the, "Situation of the Palestinians is intolerable. They suffer daily humiliation that accompany the occupation. We will never turn our backs on their legitimate right to live with dignity in their own state."Suwwan is angry because he feels that Obama never followed up on his statement and is not helping the Palestinian people.Suwwan says that Israel has always been protected because of their earlier historical suffering but that the Palestinians were not the ones that "assasinated" the Jews and they now feel like they are being punished for the Nazi's wrongdoing.He says that the Israeli's are acting like the Nazi's murdering women and children that have nothing to do with the conflict. Suwwan goes on to exclaim the Palestinians are "not asking for the moon", they just want access to their ever shrinking territory. Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his opposition to the existence of a Palestinian state without Jewish presence and his refusal to include Jerusalem in the negotiations.
This article is clearly very Pro- Palestinian. It again presents the Palestinians as the victims; murdered children, no land and no representation. Yet the article fails to mention that the Gaza attack was flamed by a Palestinian attack and the fact that places like Sderot, are being hit with Palestinian rockets on a day to day basis.It is also interesting to note that Suwwan says that they are not the ones who murdered the Jews.While they may have not murdered Jews during the Holocaust, they have been murdering innocent Jews since the inception of the State of Israel in 1948. It is dangerous that the Palestinians believe that Obama is their ally. If the President does choose to get involved it will be a detrimental action for the the Jewish community and his international reputation. This article continues to rally Palestinian support and make the living situation for the Venezuelan Jewish community even more intolerable.
Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/ddhh/n149325.html

Israel is accused of Electrocuting and possibly Murdering a Palestinian Leader

Aporrea January 30 2010
Hamas accused Israel following the mysterious murder of one of their main military leaders,Mahmoud al Mabhouh, which many say was electrocuted and strangled during his visit to Dubai. Marc Regev, the voice of the Israeli government, refused to comment and the police in Dubai said that the murder was by a criminal group and not by political assassination. Mabhouh was buried in a Palestinian refugee camp on the border of Syria and was praised by his counterparts for being a "great man" that fought against the Israelis, with the head of Hamas saying that Mabhouh was assasinated by Israeli's the day following his arrival to Dubai. His brother, Fayek, said that investigators determined Mabhouh died from an electric shock to the head and through strangulation. His brother also noted that Mabhouh had been victim to an assassination attempt, via poison, a few months earlier in Beirut.While Dubai still claims that it was a criminal group, Hamas stresses that in 1987 Israeli militants murdered Abu Jihan, the leader of the Organization for the Liberation of Palestine. Also that in 1997 they tried to murder the leader of Hamas, Khaled Meshaal, by poisoning him but failed. This week on Ynet military analyst, Ron Ben Ishai, said that Israel had good reason to murder Mabhouh especially since he was involved in the kidnapping and murder of two Israeli soldiers in 1989.
This article in Aporrea is sympathizing with the Palestinians. Thy are basically supporting the claim that Israel murdered Mabhouh instead of standing up for Israel. They make him the victim by saying that he was described as a "great man" and was cruelly murdered. What they fail to mention though was that he was a member of the most violent terrorist group in the world and murdered two Israeli soldiers.They continue to pin it on the Israeli's by citing other times they "murdered" important Palestinian officials. Aporrea is looking at the situation from a very limited Palestinian point of view, and passing on this dangerous perspective to its thousands of readers.
Link to Original Article:http://www.aporrea.org/internacionales/n149920.html

Human's Right Organization looks into Venezuelan Violence following Protest

Reuters February 2, 2010

The OAS,Organization of American States', human rights organization asked on Tuesday for investigators to look into the "improper use of force" on protests following the shut down of an anti-government TV station in Venezuela. The Organization announced their "serious concern" following the clashes between police, students and supporters January 25 that left one 15-year old student dead, killed another student, and left several injured. The injuries were caused by the "improper use of force" of both the police and the protesters. According to initial reports, the two dead were shot by an independent gunmen who had nothing to do with the protest. Anti-riot police used tear gas and plastic grenades to break up the protests following the shut down of RCTV. The rights commission demanded Chavez to investigate right's violations and bring upon justice.
The sad aspect of this article is that the police were probably commanded to take such violent action by Chavez himself. The protest was caused by Chavez's inability to take criticism. Chavez demands any opposition to be suppressed so it is not surprising that he took such violent action. Although the human rights organization wants an investigation, one will unfortunately not be provided because it would lead back to the government and place them in an even worse situation.
Link to Original Article: http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/N02100052.htm

Venezuela's President Chavez is behind captured arms ship to Iran

January 20,2010

Israel announced that, following the capture of the Francop, they have finally figured out how the Hezbollah illegal arms ship arrived in the waters off the coast of Cyprus.The German ship, Francop, was transporting a large amount of weaponry to Hezbollah terrorists. Venezuela believed that it was via Tehran, but recently have found out the Francop departed off the shores of Venezuela. The ship went on to briefly dock in Iran, to later travel through the Suez Canal and make its way up towards Lebanon. The report follows Chavez's pro- Iranian past and rumors that he is allowing Hezbollah to operated in Venezuela.
This is yet another clue linking Iran and Venezuela together.This not only links them together, but stresses the fact that Chavez is fostering a relationship with the most dangerous terrorist organization in the world, leading his country and his people further on path of destruction.
Link to Original Article:http://www.israeltoday.co.il/default.aspx?tabid=178&nid=20408

National Post criticizes the Chavez Regime

January 23, 2010

The article's author, David Frum, begins by explaining the situation as he first arrived to Caracas. The largest mall, owned by the wealthiest Jewish family, had just been seized by the government the night before he arrived. A few days later, Israel traced a Hezbollah shipment straight back to Caracas.These are just accounts from one week living in Venezuela. The government had already seized french- owned supermarkets and shut down independent television stations,radio operations, and the country's largest Internet company.There are several clues that the dictatorship is gaining more control. Chavez postponed elections to the national assembly last year to September,filling the seats with regime loyalists who have been gerrymandering districts against the opposition. When Chavez in fact loses by the numbers, he will simply change the system to ensure it is not documented and most importantly that it does not happen again. Currently, Chavez is trying to account for the grave mistakes he has made during his term. He has overspent his oil revenues and in response there has been inflation in prices and currency devaluation. Electricity and food shortages are widespread throughout the country and instead of taking account for his mistakes Chavez has blamed speculators, capitalists and imperialism. As prices continue to soar, Chavez has found a new enemy with the "criminal Zionists", creating a national air of anti-semitism.
This article presents the danger that Chavez poses as a dictator. He is leading the country down the path of destruction. He has nationalized almost everything, leaving no room for personal speech. The inflation is out of control and has caused devaluation in their actual currency. People are sick of having no food or electricity. His support is definitely dwindling, but he is now too powerful to be controlled or stopped.The situation is becoming increasingly dangerous for the Jews. The seize of the Jewish family owned Sambil mall and the constant blame pinned on the Jews, has caused a lack of national support for them as well. People need to realize that Chavez has become all too powerful. The opposition must take action before it is too late for both them and the Jewish community.

Link to Original article:http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/fullcomment/archive/2010/01/23/david-frum-venezuela-falls-back-on-a-reliable-scapegoat.aspx

Aporrea tries to Stir Up Anti- Semitism

Aporrea published an article in which they quoted anti- Israel comments made by Jewish people, calling it "The Jewish Rebellion Against the Israeli Attack". The historian Ilan Pappe said that operation must qualify as a genocide,Yakov Rabkin said he was shocked by the massacre and Naomi Klein said that all of Israel's economy is dependant on their "military fist". They said to note that all these comments were made by Jews who are tired of the " pretense of Israel to represent and speak in their name." As Yakhov Rabkin said,many Jews feel Israel's actions are an "extreme political error". He continues on to say that most Jews do not need Israel to act as their representative and as their Jewish "voice" in the World that they have it under control. It went on to cite several organizations including the Jewish Voice for Peace and Jewish Independent voice, organizations that speak out against Israel's violent actions. In a study of young Jews only 50%, supposedly, claimed that they feel "comfortable" with the Jewish State. A Canadian Jew said that a "Jewish State is intrinsically racist and cannot be democratic in the fact that it discriminates against those who are not Jewish." Yakov Rabkin says,"There is a big difference between the terms Israeli, Jew and Zionist" going on to say that anti- semitism exists today because of Israel.
This article is trying to present this Revolution when actually those Jews that do not support Israel are a small minority. Aporrea was created in 2002 in order to create support for Chavez and deny negative allegations against him. Since then it has become an important Chavez support outlet, and therefore increasingly anti-semitic and anti-Israel. Aporrea was hoping that if readers saw that EVEN Jews are criticizing their own state, it is alright for them to do it as well. They were hoping to create dissent concerning the situation in Gaza. It is interesting that Rabkin is complaining about Israel, when Israel is the only country that if he was ever threatened he could go to.He is lucky that he has his right to free speech, while the Venezuelan Jews are stuck in silence to the attacks made against them. Israel is the country protecting them and Aporrea hopes to convince the Venezuelans to break their ties with Israel, leaving the Jews abandoned and in danger.

Link to Original Article: http://encontrarte.aporrea.org/extra-escritos/99/a15592.html

Aryeh Eldad: "The Mini Hitler of Israel"

Apporea May 5,2009

Apporea printed an article in which it compared Aryeh Eldad, Nationalist Knesset member, to the Nazis. They claimed that Israel has been trying to propose "protections of the law" that would "formalize" the de- facto Israeli racism and greatly restrict the rights of the citizens that are not Jewish in Israel. The article says that the Palestinian plight is the longest and most ancient in modern history. Israel, with an army like that of the "gestapo" and one that claims that they are the most "moral army in the world" even though they continue to be "arbitrary murders". According to Apporea, the houses continue to be destroyed and the land continues to be "stolen". Aryeh Eldad's party "defends the genocide, the ethnic cleansing and the discrimination against those that are not Jewish."Some have even claimed that they wish "to erase the goyim" from the "Holy State of Israel". The article goes on to say that Eldad has claimed that the non- Jews are not real humans. As they exclaim,"Any honest person can affirm that every Jewish city or town is constructed upon the ruins of an Arab city or town."
This article was printed in a national very popular newspaper. The newspaper is clearly Pro-Palestinian and the fact that they twisted the words of Israel so much in order to gain support for Palestine is sad and misleads readers. The article never went on to discuss the proposition at all, just saying that Israel was trying to cleanse the race and had no reason to kick out the Palestinians. This article shows how the anti-semitism in Venezuela is rooted in anti- Israel sentiment, increasing violence and anger against the Jewish community.

Link to Original Article: http://www.aporrea.org/internacionales/a78825.html

Latin Organization claims the Venezuelans are "playing the anti-semitic card"

NACLA, the North American Congress on Latin America, posted an article in which they criticized newspapers and people that claimed that there was no anti- Semitism occuring in Venezuela. Following the attack on the Tiferet Israel synagogue, NACLA shockingly said that the "idea that the sacking of the Caracas synagogue was based purely on anti-semitism has persisted", although they do not think this was the case. In fact they claim that these newspapers are exaggerating the situation, and the government had nothing to do with the attacks. According to them, "Such hyperbolic media coverage exemplitfies the tendency of the U.S. press to portray left- leaning Latin American governments as hot beds of anti- Semitism. Specifically in Venezuela, "where the government has never made an overtly anti- semitic statements." To them this idea has been promototed in three ways: connecting anti-semitic comments made by private citizens to the governement, attacking legitimate criticism of the Israel government, and relying on press statements made by the the ADL or the Simon Wiesenthal Organization. The article went on to claim that Chavez's words are generally warped and taken out of context and that when he mentioned "the descendants that crucified christ" he was not referring to the Jews but rather he was focusing attention unto the unequal distribution of global wealth. The article says that this is just another example in which U.S.- based propagandists are trying to advance their own cause by presenting Latin American governements as anti- semitic.
The writers of this article are clearly misled or in denial about what is occuring in Venezuela. By criticizing the propaganda that actually does stand up for the Jewish community at the time of the crisis, they are making the situation worse for both parties. The Jewish community needs all the support they can get yet this non- profit organization is claiming that they are exaggerating and that there is no situation, even following the extremely anti-semitic attack on the synagogue. Someone should look into this organization and see where there interests actually lie. If their own people are not standing up for them, the situation for the Jews is just bound to get worse.

Link to Original Article; https://nacla.org/node/6106

Jerusalem Post " Anti- Semitism highest since WWII

The Jerusalem Post came out with an article today in which they listed the countries which anti-semitism has increased. It found that following operation Cast Lead anti-semitism in Western Europe increased to a level not seen since the close of World War II. The information was released as part of an annual report on anti-semitism,presented during a press conference at the Jewish Agency in Jerusalem. Natan Sharansky mentioned that "classical anti- semeitsim is changing, and its been replaced with a new anti-Semitism, which takes the shape in the form of unbridled attacks against the idea of a Jewish state." Anti- semitism is defined by the "demonization, delegitimization and the double standard for the Jews." The report listed Iran and Venezuela as the the World's most anti- Semitic countries and warned against the strengthening bond between the two countries and the increasing apathy to the Muslim hatred of the Jews.
The fact that Venezuela is reported as the "most anti-semitic country in the world" stresses the threat the Jewish Community is facing there. The president is creating a stronger alliance with the Arab countries and the relationship shows no signs of weakening.
Link to Original Article:http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1263147969773&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

Chavez Shuts down Opposition Cable TV Station

The Cable TV Channel,Radio Caracas Television, was taken off the air Sunday after refusing to comply with the new government regulations that require it to televise all of Chavez's speeches. Venezuela cable and satellite television providers pulled the plug after Radio Caracas did not broadcast a speech made by Chavez at a support rally. The Director of Venezuela's state-run telecommunications agency said, " They cannot have a single channel that violates Venezuelan law as part of their programming". RCTV said that the government was "inappropriately pressuring them to make decisions beyond their responsibilities." Chavez accused the station of plotting against him in staging a coup in 2002, and refused to renew their license to broadcast on regular airwaves. He also restricted RCTV and twenty four other local cable channels, forcing them to carry government programing when officials request it. The new regulation is going to effect during a very unpopular and tumultuous time for the President. There have been protests in Caracas to try to get RCTV back to air. Meanwhile, the Bolivarian News Agency, said the suspension involved four channels that can return to air if they comply with the new regulations.
Chavez has restricted free speech in the past, however, he has taken his power to a new level with these stringent media rules. By restricting the media he is able to strengthen his own voice and make his supporters perspective even more narrow then it was before.His own voice means his opinions, including the anti- Israel rants and anti-semitic comments. By forcing the media to comply with his rules he is spreading his dangerous ideas and only worsening the situation for the Jews.
Link to Original Article:http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/25/world/americas/25venez.html?scp=8&sq=Venezuela&st=cse

Anti -Semitism in Venezuela

Stephen Roth Institute 2003-2004

The Jewish Community in Venezuela has suffered extreme instability following the inauguration of Chavez into office in 1998. The community shrunk from 20,000 to 15,000 individuals following the crisis, a minority among the 22 million inhabitants of Venezuela.The poverty levels soared to 80% in the middle and upper classes, significantly lowering the assets of the majority of the Jewish community. Chavez is linked to ultra left-wing figures who have publicly expressed hostility towards Judaism and Israel.In the first months of 2003 Chavez supporters organized protests against Iraq, where they displayed anti- semitic slogans. Additionally, the pro- Chavez website Revolutionary Popular Assembly strongly attacked the chief rabbi of Caracas on July 29, as well as the Jewish community on the basis that they support the opposition. Although antisemitically motivated assaults were not recorded, there were many examples of vandalism. The Iraq protesters took a detour on their way to the rally and vandalized the walls of Tifferet Israel. At the rally on March 25, the protesters threw bottles and stones at the windows and tried to break in through the door. This rally was attended by public officials and public figures including the Minister of Communications and Information, Congressman, and the Government of the Municipality. There has been numerous expressions of anti-semitism in the media. For example, journalist Jeronimo Carrera, a member of the Communist party. blamed the "criminal Yankee- Zionist coalition" for the capture of an international terrorist. El Nacional claimed that the CIA and Israel Mossad were behind the coup d'etat to throw Chavez out of the government. The new pro-government newspaper Vea takes a particularly strong stance against Israel. In one article in September 2003 entitled "License to Kill", the writer claimed that Bush was helping "the bloodthirsty Zionist Israel regime"and referring to a Sharon as a "good disciple of Hitler." There were several comparisons made between Sharon and Hitler. El Diario Caracas put out an article titled "Volgswagon and Sharon", while another newspaper Tal Cual published "The Arab Aushwitz". Classic antisemitic themes, although not all that common can be found throughout the media. El Nacional reports on a small religious fanatical religious sect, Revelation of Final Times, who believe that Chavez was meant to run the run the country and opposes "Zionism,evil and international justice." Rafael Poleo in his column "Pendulo" in the center-left magazine Zeta ,criticizes Pope John Paul II,for trying to please Saddam Hussein saying he was blind sighted to the difficult situation for the Catholics in the U.S., because they were being discredited by the Jews. There have been several reports that several groups within Venezuela are funding radical islamis groups,some with tourist money laundering.
This piece served as a warning sign for what was to come ahead.The Tifferet Israel is a great example of this. It was vandalized in 2003, and five years later it was vandalized again only this time the damage was much more severe. At this point the situation was not as serious as it had become but the age of fear had already begun. People felt like it was going to turn around, but as we see today it worsened as time went on. The institute in their report stresses the lack of future for the Jewish community unless these actions were stopped.Since there was barely any international reaction, the situation deteriorated dramatically.

Link to Original Article: http://www.tau.ac.il/Anti-Semitism/asw2003-4/venezuela.htm

Chavez using Jews as "scapegoats" in order to Gain Support

Forbes February 15,2009

Hugo Chavez has launched attacks against the Jews in order to gain support for the February 15 referendum,that if passed will allow him to run for president for life. Following the January 22 attacks on the Tifferet Israel synagogue, Chavez apologized even though a week before he had rallied his supporters to protest against the actions in Gaza. Following his expulsion of Israeli ambassadors, a pro- Chavez Web site suggested boycotting Venezuela's small Jewish community, forcing the Jews out from the country and launching protests against the Israeli government and Jewish Synagogues. That is exactly what occurred. A week before the vandalism protests broke out at the Israeli Embassy and vandalism covered the walls of the Venezuelan synagogue, while the police witnessed the situation without taking action. The synagogue security's cameras captured images of the offenders,but Chavez's police confiscated them for the investigation that produced no arrests. During the break in the tapes were taken by the offenders so the police would have no proof. Chavez has total control of the police force after he nationalized it, seizing power from opposition Mayor Antonio Ledezma. Since then the Mayor has had no influence against the anti-semitic attacks that occurred.This is not the first time the Jews have been used as scapegoats. In the past few years Chavez has sent military police into the schools and community to search for weapons and "assassination plots", when obviously nothing was found. Chavez's alliance with Iran has made him link Israel, the U.S. and the Jews in a plot to control the World through war and capitalism. Votes were against Chavez for election- for-life yet there was a good chance he would rig the votes to appear as if he won, as he had done in past referendums. Inflation, corruption and the highest murder rate in the world plaque Chavez's government and Chavez is simply looking for an enemy to blame for his failures. Chavez is attempting to scare his dwindling supporters into believing that the Jews will destroy the revolution and assassinate him, in hopes that people will sympathize with his "underdog" status.
This article delineates and reaffirms the fact that Chavez is involved in the anti- semitic plot in order to gain support. His involvement in the several attacks against the Jewish community is obvious and he can no longer deny it.The biggest fear for the Venezuelans, is the fact that he has seized control of the police force in order to sanction the attacks against them. As the article expresses," Chavez needs an enemy to blame for the missing eggs and meat at the market,soaring prices,rampant unemployment and crime- and who better than the Jews?" Chavez sadly went on to win the referendum meaning his plan of using the Jews as scapegoats worked. Through his overt hatred towards the Jews and a currently even stronger influential position in society, the Jewish Community's existence is becoming increasingly threatened.
Link to Original Article:http://www.forbes.com/2009/02/13/chavez-jews-referendum-opinions-contributors_0215_rowan_schoen.html

" In Venezuela, anti-semitism is endorsed by the government"

HAARETZ September 10,2009

The president of the Jewish community in Venezuela accused President Hugo Chavez on September 7 of "promoting anti-semitism and giving the phenomenon legitimacy." Speaking at the World Jewish Conference in Jerusalem Abrahmam Levy Ben Shimol said,"You probably hear of many anti-semitic incidents, but where we live, the anti-semitism is sanctioned;it comes from the president, through the government, and into the media. Since the government is very involved into the day-to-day lives of its constituents, its influence is much more effective."Ben Shimol went on to add that in recent weeks, swastikas have covered the walls of the synagogue and a Palestinian flag was waved at a parliament session."We Jews are going through a difficult time. We hope it will be over soon and the future will shine upon us", Ben Shimol announced at the end of his speech.
The fact that Ben Shimol referred to the situation as serious in a World forum is an important and big step in the fight against anti-semitism. By publicly announcing the government was "sanctioning" these attacks, Ben-Shimol called attention to the situation internationally and hopefully this will inspire and impel people to act against the corrupt Venezuelan government.
Link to Original Article:http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1058912.html

Report: Venezuelan Jewish Community under High Threat

Febuary 2, 2009

Following the attacks on the Venezuelan synagoue, the Anti-Defamation League decided to file the report Chavez's Venezuela: The Jewish Community under threat. This act was the latest in the anti-semitism surrounding Venezuelans whose leaders, government officials, and media commentators have created an intimidating environment for the community. In the weeks following Israel's Operation Cast Lead the Jewish community of about 15,000 have been the targets of hateful rhetoric, intimidation, vandalism of property and threats of organized boycotts. Abraham H. Foxman, National director of the ADL, expressed his feelings on the situation saying, " The anti-semites in Venezuela feel emboldened and empowered by the rhetoric and actions of Hugo Chavez and his government. The most recent synagogue attack in Caracas did not happen in a vacuum. It took place in an atmosphere of intimidation and threats against the Jewish community that has been building for weeks, stoked by the vile comparisons of Israel's actions to the Nazi's coming from President Chavez and his regime."The ADL took a deeper look into the anti-semitic statements made by Chavez and other government officials and how the anti- Israel attitude fuels national anti- semitism. The problem with Venezuela is that anti-semitism is being used as a "political tool" . It comes from Chavez and spreads down throughout the system ultimately affecting the government on all levels and reaching the government- controlled media. Among the ADL findings; Chavez's inappropriate comments referring to operation Cast- Lead and the expulsion of Israeli diplomats, and his theory that the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency was responsible for poisoning former Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat. The comments trickled down the system and anti- Israel comments were made by the foreign minister, interior minister, the president of the national assembly, congress members and governors across the country who support Chavez. There were several anti- Israel rallies held throughout Venezuela where Israel's actions were compared to those of the Nazi's during the holocaust and all of them left behind anti- Israel graffiti. Opinion articles appeared in all official government media condemning Israel and its actions and making claims such as the Jews are "double-agents" of Israel.There was a large stream of anti- Semitic comments made on government-related web sites, spreading myths of Jewish control of finances and economic interests and in one extreme case saying "Hitler did not finish the job." The ADL were encouraged by the support of the Venezuelan Jewish community coming from the opposition and independent media, giving them hope that this is the majority opinion.
It is a big step that an official interest group has finally expressed the persecution of the Jews in Venezuela as an issue. By citing and listing the different attacks against the Jews, the ADL made the threatening situation clear and showed the obvious government involvement. Their report now serves as a call to action for the world wide community.
Link to Original Article:http://www.adl.org/PresRele/ASInt_13/5462_13.htm

The Iran- Venezuela Axis

Wall Street Journal September 8, 2009

The first sign that Venezuela and Iran were creating a partnership was in 2006, when Venezuela joined Cuba and Syria and the only countries to vote against the U.N. Atomic Energy Agency resolution to report Iran to the Security Council following its failure to abide to U.N. sanctions and halt their nuclear program.A year later, during a visit to Iran by Chavez, the two nations declared an "axis of unity" against the U.S. and Ecuador. Last year while there were strong suspicions of fraud during Ahmadinjad's victory, Chavez publicly stood by him. While the "regime cracked down on political dissent, jailing, torturing and killing protesters", Chavez increased his support. Iranian investments in Venezuela has been on the rise. The countries signed several Memorandums of Understanding on technology, development, cooperation, banking and finance, and oil and gas exploration and refining. In April 2008 they signed another Memorandum of Understanding pledging full military support and cooperation, meaning that Iranian military advisers were embedding with Venezuelan troops. Venezuela has an estimated 50,000 toons of unmined uranium, according to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, which they could use to support Iranian proliferation. The Iranians opened an International Development Bank in Caracas under the name Banco Internacional de Desarollo C.A.I an independent subsidiary of Export Development Bank of Iran.Venezuela established a financial system that along with Iran could potentially avoid economic sanctions. Several Iranian- owned and controlled factories have come up in undeveloped parts of Venezuela and while there is no proof of activity conducted within the factory, they are ideal locations for the "illicit" productions of weapons. The U.S. Government Accountability Office(GAO) recently reported a high level of corruption within the Venezuela government,military, and law enforcement that has allowed the country to become a major shipping route for cocaine trafficking. Intelligence reports confirm Venezuela's relationship with the FARC, Colombian terrorist group and Hezbollah's engagement with the narcotic trafficking.
The Iran Venezuela alliance is growing every day. Iran has invested more interests in Venezuela as time has progressed, and there are no signs of it slowing down. The growing relationship only increases suspicions of Venezuela assisting Iranian proliferation.

The Threatening Spread of the "Chavisimo" Ideology

On public national Radio Globo in Honduras Daniel Ellner was quoted saying,"Sometimes I ask myself if Hitler wasn't right when he wanted to finish that race,through the famous holocaust,because if there are people that are harmful to this country,they are the Jews,the Israelites."Ellner is one of the most vocal advocates for the return of anti-semitic deposed President Manuel Zelaya back to office.This statement represents the rapid spread of "chavisimo" and all it implies to other countries in Latin America."Chavisimo" stands for nuclear proliferation,terrorism and anti-semitism.Chavez and Senator John Kerry have been fighting for Mr. Zelaya's return to office following his deportation on June 28 for violating the Honduran constitution.Ellner's article was a follow up to Zelaya's claim that he was being "subjected to high frequency radiation" from outside the embassy and how he felt "Israel mercenaries" were behind it. Since Chavez took power he has been verbally attacking the Jewish community. There has been a greater increase since his blossoming relationship with Ahmadinejad began. In 2004, there was a police raid on the Jewish school under suspiciosn that they were harboring weapons. In the end no weapons were found yet the community still fell under attack. In recent years Venezuela and Iran have signed joint ventures worth an estimated $20 billion. Iran has signed similar ventures with Venezuelan satellite, Bolivvia. Both South American countries accused Israel of a genocide in 2008 with Operation cast Lead and decided to cut ties with the country. Chavez's anti- Israel rants are supposedly what fueled the 2009 attacks against the synagogue in Caracas. New York's District Attorney, Robert Morgenthau announced that he believes, " Iran and Venezuela are past the courting phase. We know they are creating a cozy financial, political and military partnership, and that both countries have strong ties to Hezbollah and Hamas." Iran had begun to develop a relationship with Honduras before Mr. Zelaya was taken out from power.
This article serves as a wake up call to countries of the world, that Venezuela and Iran must be stopped. Chavez's ideology is currently being spread and plaguing Latin America. Now anti- Semitism has begun to increase in three countries, where it had never been witnessed before. Also their relationship with Iran is being greatly influenced by Chavez. These dangerous alliances must be broken before the Jewish communities become extinct and Iran gains total control of Latin America.

Editorial Writer for El Universal criticizes the attacks on the Jews

Ricardo Alfonzo N. recounts watching his country deteriorate under Chavez's rule. He says that for a few years he has been watching "painfully" Hugo Chavez trying to expose the worst instincts of the Venezuelan people. His hateful speeches only serve to rise the masses and create chaos. Alfonzo cites several big mistakes Chavez has made. The first is working for his own benefit. The "king" does not respect any of the Constitutional laws and has destroyed the country economically due to his overproduction of money. He also does not respect the right to life, after under his rule 120,000 people have been murdered. "This same monarch that tries to internationally accuse the State of Israel for a genocide, is sending people to kill our own sons", Alfonzo declared angrily. He has taken actions against the catholic church. He constantly criticizes the Catholic Church and their actions. A group of his followers violated a catholic temple in Los Teques. Lastly his constant attacks against the Jewish community. January 31, 2009 Chavez publicly made a statement that "Christ was assassinated by the Jews". Which as Alfonzo says both the Christians and historians completely deny. He expelled the Israeli ambassador that "not even the Arab countries that support Islam did" and he also declared "demeaning statements against the Jews." A very "well trained group, with perfect acknowledgement of commanded action, like any trained unit would do" violated the synagogue of Mariperez. Later on the Minister of Communications and Hugo Chavez himself said it was students. Again this reiterates this corrupt government that "accuses without investigation and punishes without justice and that always covers up the crimes that government commits or incites." The Jewish community is always available to help adds Alfonzo. During the mudslide tragedy in Vargas while Jewish doctors and Rabbis rushed to the scene, Chavez was missing and the government institutions were " enjoying changing the constitution." Alfonzo stresses that he will not let the Jews be run out. They are the same as "the catholics, the Muslims, the orthodox. We are all Venezuelans and we all want to live with love, respect and peace." People should express to the the President that the "Honest country of Venezuela wears their star of David on their chest and no one will take us on a new holocaust and no one will accompany him on his antisemetic campaign.
This call to action and public critcism by a journalist is unique and commendable. Alfonzo clearly points out the attacks on the government were unjust and intentional. The synagogue attack was all too well planned to be a random hate act. Alfonzo, a catholic, deeply supports the Jewish community and as he claims he is not the only one. While this article does not minimize the hundreds of other antisemetic articles, it definately does put them into question and force the reader to rethink their initial opinions.

Venezuelan Jewish Community asks for an Invesigation of Hostility Against Them

June 2, 2009 El Universal
The Jewish community denounced in front of the Organization of American States(OAS) of their members that live in Latin America and specifically in Venezuela. " In the past few months we have witnessed attacks against members that integrate the Latin community, attacked only for being Jewish", said Sergio Widder a leader in the Jewish community of Buenos Aires. He went on to say that the attacks have come all too frequent, citing the taking of Jewish property and the attacks on the synagogue in Venezuela. Widder confirmed, "There is no known response of the authorities in Venezuela.To the contrary, the reaction has been a tolerance that has stimulated new aggressions." He went on to say that, " In every democratic society there are intolerant groups that take violent action through statements of hate against the minority. The radical distinction that we should formulate is how the government reacts with these incidents, some that avoid and others that sanction." Due to this situation the Center Simon Wiesenthal of Buenos Aires ask the OAS to investigate the antisemitism within Venezuela, to provide conclusions and recommendations. Their immediate reaction was unknown. However, they did meet with leaders in Latin America to discuss the problems that tear apart their nations.
It is good that other countries are finally realizing the gravity of the situation within Venezuela and standing up for them. The situation needs to be dealt with aggressively and since other forms have not worked, it is time for government institutions to step in and stand up against Chavez and his corrupt government.
Link to Original Article:http://www.eluniversal.com/2009/06/02/pol_ava_piden-a-la-oea-inves_02A2360843.shtml

Israel will receive Venezuelan Jews "In Crisis"

El Universal January 12, 2010

Due to the economic crisis, the speaker for the Jewish Agency for Israel, Michael Yankelowicz confirmed that Israel will receive anyone "in need". The statement also mentioned that the Venezuelan Jewish community is free to travel to Israel and the Jewish Agency will provide them with assistance if needed. When comparing the 2001 economic crisis in Argentina to this one, Yankelowisz noted that Venezuela's has a racial political undertone, while Argentina's was merely economical. Since they helped the Argentinian Jews they will now also step in and help the Venezuelans. He also noted that there has always been Venezuelan Jews who have made aliyah and vice versa, and that there has not been an increase or decrease up to now due to the crisis.
This invitation to the Venezuelan Jewish community is the first invitation for emigration and many may take the opportunity due to the crisis and the rampant anti-semitism. While some may be resilient to leave due to the issues in Israel at least now they have the opportunity and a safe haven if needed. There could be a rapid increase of emigration from Venezuela to Israel since it is the only country where the Jews could assimilate into society and attain visa's quickly.
Link to Original Article:http://politica.eluniversal.com/2010/01/12/pol_art_israel-recibira-a-ju_1721381.shtml

Washington Post: Chavez has replaced Bush with his new favorite adversaries the Jews

February 12, 2009 El Nacional

In a new article by The Washington Post they claim that Chavez has replaced George W. Bush with the Jewish community making them his new "favorite adversary".The article named "Sr. Chavez vs. the Jews" highlights the recent actions of the government in thier "assualt against the Jewish community". The article says that the government took "fast and rushed" action following the attack. The article noted that the opposition rally was supposedly going to be led by two Jewish students and on a national internet page it asked to "confront" every Jew they meet and boycott Jewish institutions. The article also continued on to say that Chavez is not as worried about the other problems facing Venezuela such as the 30% inflation rate or the tripling of crime that has made Venezuela one of the most dangerous cities in the world, stressing his focus on the Jews. In the end the article said that if Chavez had lost the referendum he has already "decided who to blame".
This article in the Washington Post put Chavez in the hot seat because it emphasizes his actions against the Jews. Not only did he not respond aggresively to the anti-semitic attack he has been focusing his attention solely on the Jews and their actions against him. This signifies a shift in the increasing anti-semitism and the form in which it will continue to increase unless he is stopped.
Link to Original Article: http://www.el-nacional.com/www/site/p_contenido.php?q=nodo/68153/Internacional/Washington-Post:-Ch%C3%A1vez-sustituy%C3%B3-a-Bush-por-los-jud%C3%ADos-como-sus-adversarios

Chavez Pleads with the Jewish community to not Allow Themselves to Be Misled by the Opposition

February 6,2009 El Nacional

President Chavez denied that he was anti-semitic and asked the Jewish Community "to be smart as they usual are" and not allow themselves to be misled by the opposition. He asked the leaders of the Jewish community to not view that attack as a "political act". Chavez insisted, " I do not hate the Jews and I call to the Jewish Venezuelans that they not be used" by the opposition."The Government as usual will extend their hands and reject any type of aggression against a Jewish, Christian or Protestant temple", Chavez added. The chancellor Nicolas Maduro had expressed earlier to the Venezuelan Jewish community the anger of the government due to the attacks on the Synagogue. The Confederation of Israeli Associations of Venezuela said that in the meeting with Maduro they denounced the "continuous anti- Jewish attacks expressed in different forms of communication that pertain to the national government." They went on to reject the opposition that plan to "include" the Jewish community in a plan of conspiration against the national government by trying to convert this attack into a political deal. They also asked the government to not make comments dealing with the Middle East because it places the Jewish community in a "hostile" and uncomfortable position.
The fact that both sides tried to use this anti-Semitic attack to improve their own political stance is repudiable and a problem itself. Chavez again only apologized because he did not want the Jews to join the opposition since it would have risked the victory he needed to stay in power. One of the most anti- semitic attacks in Venezuelan history had occured and yet both sides were just trying to twist it for their own benefit. This article stresses the national apathy both sides feel towards the Jewish plight.

Link to original article: http://www.el-nacional.com/www/site/p_contenido.php?q=nodo/67261/Pol%EDtica/Ch%E1vez-pidi%F3-a-los-jud%EDos-no-dejarse-utilizar-por-la-oposici%F3n

16 Congressmen Plead with Chavez to stop attacks against the Jews

February 3, 2009 El National

Following the attack on the synagogue, 16 congressmen from the House of Representatives sent President Hugo Chavez a letter asking him to please "put an end to the intimidation and hostility" of the Jewish community within Venezuela. Those who signed also asked the Venezuelan government,"to extend to the community the firm protection that they deserve with the light of the treaties which protect them and to lower the hostile tone of his rhetoric against the state of Israel to an appropriate level for the diplomatic dialogue." One of the congressmen is Elliot L. Angel, a New York democrat and the President of the Subcommittee for the Western Hemisphere. According to Engel," The time has come to speak firmly and clearly against the intimidation against the Jewish community that Chavez has created." While Chavez did denounce the attack on the synagogue saying that it "places shadows against his next victory", his close relationship with terrorist groups such as the Colombian FARC and his developing friendship with Iran instills fear that there is more to come. The letter reminded the World community that Chavez expelled the ambassador of Israel and is becoming closer with Iran who supports the destruction of the Jewish State. Tam Kahn, the President of the Latin and Latin american Jewish Committee of the United States, said that the increase in violence against the Jews shows a "complete lack of respect" for the Jewish community.
It is nice that these representatives wrote a letter denouncing Chavez's anti- Semitism, yet they could have gone way further and done more to help the Jewish community. Obviously a letter is not going to stop a dictator such as Chavez. While they wrote this letter with good intentions, they never took greater and more severe action past this point leaving the Jewish community with a lack of support and aid. Even though Chavez apologized it was in his own self- interest. He was not afraid of what would happen to the community, rather the way in which this event could damage his campaign. The World community needs to stop merely witnessing and criticizing the anti-semitism that is occuring and take action against the governement that supports it.

Link to Original Article : http://www.el-nacional.com/www/site/p_contenido.php?q=nodo/66759/Internacional/16-congresistas-piden-a-Ch%C3%A1vez-cesar-ataques-a-jud%C3%ADos

Apporea Article:" How to Support Palestine in the face of the Artificial State of Israel"

January 22,2009

In an article posted by Emilio Silva,which was later removed due the discriminatory nature of it, he severely criticized the Venezuelan Jewish community. He starts off the article by mentioning that anyone with a conscience that knows of the "atrocities" that the Jews are committing in a country which is not their own is something that causes "anxiety,pain,indignity and real anger" and is enough to create just action for change that should not be criticized by those who "think they are above natural human law." Silva claims he knows the way "to shake and mobilize" in order to take action and prove the Palestinian state is supreme through "concentrated and deeply radical acts,events, and proposals." The first part explains what needs to be done on the national level. There needs to be videos that expose that "true" situation in Palestine and Israel. There needs to be a media campaign on the Internet, television and radio where they expose the terrorism that the "Jews and their European-American allies" have perpetrated against the Palestinians. He wants to denounce publicly with the first and last name of the Jewish groups with power and presence in Venezuela.For example he claims that no one should assist the Sambil Mall, which is owned by a wealthy Jewish man.His next point is that since these "Jewish Zionist's money pains them more than anything else" no one should buy their products or visit their local commercial stores or businesses. Also no one should assist the national chains that are "controlled by the Zionist regime" such as Mcdonalds, Adidas, Nike and Coca Cola.People should question the Jewish education because "they think they are a class apart from ours". There should be public rallies held in front of the Israeli Embassy and other Jewish establishments. The ZOG's actions should be aggressively controlled within Venezuela. Silva says that they must destroy all government establishments that support the Israeli government. The list continues like this with at least twenty more points including informing Jews in order to convince them to take the side of Palestine, inviting anti-Zionists to publicly rally and ask others to join their cause, and a world conference in where they discuss the appearance of the "theoretical Nazi-fascist state of Israel under its condition as a colony created from the European- American genocide." He goes on to say that from this "supposed " Holocaust, although it is "doubtful" that it even happened, we can say there were Jews murdered but it does not justify the " massive planned" murder that the Zionists are committing now against the Palestinians.
Clearly Silva is a Neo- Nazi and very extreme in his ideas.Although Apporea went back and denounced the article, it should have never been published in the first place.It does not justify the comments Silva made in a public forum like this national newspaper. The article is trying to impose laws against the Jews in order to drive them out.Silva wants to lead Venezuela in the path of Nazi Germany, by either completely evacuating the Jews or convincing them to join the cause and support the Palestinians.The ideas he proposes are similar to those during the Holocaust. Not supporting any Jewish institutions, publicly humiliating Jews in order for them to join the cause, and holding rallies against them.By the time the article was denounced, people had already read it and the community had already been further damaged. The false facts had already been exposed and there was no taking them back. It is this kind of national apathy against such obvious anti- semitism that is forcing the Jews to flee and the Pro- Palestine movement to gain support and strength.

Link to Original Article:http://www.aporrea.org/actualidad/a71876.html

January Vandalization of Jewish Synagogue in Venezuela

January 31,2009

Following the constant criticism surrounding Operation Cast Lead, a Caracas synagogue was vandalized with slogans such as "We don't want Jews here" and "Jews get out". David Bitan the Vice President of the Jewish Community said that the intruders broke down the synagogue door and threw scripture books on the floor and proceeded to write hateful statements on the wall. The guard was found on the floor clearly threatened by the criminals at around 3 a.m. The Jewish community filed an official report with the police department saying,"This is a very complicated situations for the Jews in Venezuela. The slogans were not against Israel but against the Jews." A spokesperson for the Federation stated," We've never had such an incident. It looks well planned. We were afraid something like this would happen. The official press was becoming more and more anti- Israeli and anti- Jews. There are hundreds of anti-Semitic articles, ads and filers."
This event signifies a turn in the anti-semitism within Venezuela. This is the first act that is not against Israel, but rather the Jews themselves. It finally got personal and the community is scared. The fact that this attack came right after extreme criticism of Israel by president Hugo Chavez came as no coincidence, and the community wondered if he had any connection to it. If acts like this continue and are not condemned by the government the situation for the community will be extremely grave and the survival of the community will be in question.
Link to Original Article: http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=2825611517371471975

Canada will represent Israel in Venezuela

March 3,2009 Dominion Paper

Following the expulsion of Israeli Diplomats from Venezuela, Canada's Minister of State for Latin America Peter Kent confirmed that Canada will represent Israel's diplomatic interests in Venezuela. Venezuela broke ties with Israel during Operation Cast Lead in January. Two weeks later, Israel did the same. Venezuela's Foreign Minister, Nicolas Maduro,responded saying, "We are proud that the State of Israel, led by these criminals, made this decision." A Canadian official confirmed that Canada will be taking up Israel's interests at the Canadian Embassy. Canada also currently does the same for Cuba. Canada has always been a great ally with Israel. They were the only member of the United Nations Human Right Council to vote against a January 12 Resolution that condemned Israel for their actions in Gaza.
This support from Canada while helpful does not solve the problem of lacking significant Israeli representation within Venezuela. Canada will not always be able to represents its best interests and that of Israel. For Israel to have a true say they need legitimate representation. Also the fact that Venezuela made the statement that they think the Israeli government is filled with criminals proves that they are misinformed. Unfortunately they have already spread this information to the Venezuelan community and greatly damaged Israel's reputation
Link to Original Article: http://www.dominionpaper.ca/articles/2526

Chavez," Israel threatened us and we will consequently take action"

November 26,2009 Caracas, Venezuela El Universal

In both Presidential Speeches, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Hugo Chavez exchanged several statements and reaffirmed partnership against the "imperialist threat". In front of El Palacio de Miraflores, Chavez welcomed Ahmadinejad as a " anti-imperialist gladiator" and as a "brother and companion" in the fight for the "free countries". Ahmadinejad referred to Chavez as a "brave brother" and a man that can resist "like a mountain". In several occasions the two were witnessed holding hands. Ahmadinejad stated that, "Chavez is a great revolutionary figure. I am his brother and his friend and for me this is an honor, we will be together until the end." Chavez came out in defense of Ahmadinejad from the "attacks of the Western World".In Argentina President Shimon Peres said that these two figures are doomed to fall, " Not because any of us will kill them, but because their own countries are sick of them and will not be long before they disappear." In reponse Chavez stated,"What the President of Israel said we will take as a threat and respond consequently with action." He went on to say that Israel is just the "murderous arm of the Yankee empire".
Chavez said that peace will only be achieved when imperialism is completely destroyed.Chavez criticized the countries for calling Ahmadinejad a "fighter" when they are the "aggressors".Chavez said that America cannot complain since they are the one setting up "yankee" military outposts in Columbia. "We are the threat only when we are threatened", he went on to say. Ahmadinejad said Venezuela and Iran are creating a "united front against arrogant North- American imperialism". Chavez went to Cuba to visit Fidel Castro a few days later and claimed that Ahmadinejad visiting Venezuela was as if he had visited Cuba because they are from the same "mother-country".
The partnership between Iran and Venezuela is not only dangerous because of the nuclear threat the two powers pose, but also in their mutual hate for the state of Israel. If they were ever to create a nuclear weapon Israel would be attacked first due to its proximity and now this mutual threat. The statement made by Peres further angered the two Presidents and made their position clear. The fact that Ahmadinejad said that the two countries will be "together until the end" should serve as a warning to the worldwide community and a call to action against these two super powers. They are already gaining steam and someone needs to stop their union before it is too late.
Link to Original Article:http://www.eluniversal.com/2009/11/26/pol_art_chavez:-israel-nos_1670531.shtml

Chavez asks Israel to leave Latin America alone

September 4,2009 El Universal

At a Public Event in Syria Chavez asked Israel to "take it's hands off Latin America" saying that Israel was attempting to turn Columbia into "the Israel of Latin America". Chavez went on to say that Syria and Venezuela are facing the common enemy of "imperialism" and that they must fight back."The state of Israel has become a murderous lackey. From here, I greet the people of Israel but I condemn their government which is a genocidal government that persecutes the heroic Palestinian people. We say hurray to the people of Palestine in their cause for freedom," Chavez stated. Chavez asked Israel to give back all the occupied territories to Syria and to stop attacking the people of Libya.
In this statement Chavez made his political stance clear which is that he wants nothing to do with the state of Israel and he greatly supports the Palestinian community.The fact that Chavez is not afraid to make this statement publicly shows his complete lack of support and respect for the Jewish community within Venezuela. If the Jewish community completely lacks political support it will be very difficult for them to succeed.
LINK TO ORIGINAL ARTICLE:http://english.eluniversal.com/2009/09/04/en_pol_art_chavez-asks-israel-t_04A2702607.shtml

Two Injured after Israeli Air Strike

El Universal January 1, 2010

An Israeli Airstrike "attacked" Gaza with a rocket leaving two injured. Two shots were heard one in the north and one in the south and the rocket fell in a clear area, injuring two people, one a child. A representative of Israel confirmed the attack but would not provide any details. Israel said that it would respond aggressively to any rockets shot into Israel, and this came after a rocket fell in Netivot, but left no injured. Since Operation Cast Lead the attacks have decreased significantly, although the IDF has staged 270 shots of this kind in the past year.
The article again portrays the Palestinians as the victims. It initially says they were attacked without mentioning this attack was out of retaliation until later. Usually when people read a newspaper they only look at the titles, and if this is the title of the article they would not see the other side of the story and view Israel negatively. Also it mentions a large number of shots made towards Gaza, but not the situations in which they occurred. When anyone sees a large number like that they would be shocked, but if people could probe deeper into the situation they would realize that these shots were also out of retaliation. This article once again misinforms Venezuelans about the occurrences in Israel and only increases anti- Israel sentiment.

LINK TO THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://www.eluniversal.com/2010/01/01/int_ava_dos-heridos-en-gaza_01A3246291.shtml

"Israel won defensively but lost politically in Gaza"

El Universal Saturday December 26,2009

Israel won defensively but not politically in Gaza, claimed El Universal. While it has improved security greatly, it caused major hostility within the United Nations. There have been significantly less terrorist attacks but at the cost of the murder of Palestinian civilians that deserve general recognition in a public forum. The diplomacy surrounding the event has caused a lot more issues, then the defensive success has attained. Israel's exterior relations foreign minister, Igal Palmor, alluded to the trials that Israelis responsible for the attacks will have to go through in countries like Spain and England. He also discussed the initiatives of the Muslims that were attacked and the issues Gaza caused within the United Nations. While Madrid has stopped its trials, the accusations in England are so extreme that Tzipi Livni refuses to travel there because of the fear of being detained.In the ONU, the majority vote of the Muslim countries is to try Israeli Leaders during the time on a public trial for the crimes against humanity they are accused of committing. During Operation Cast Led, after being initially attacked by Hamas Israel began a three week attack on Gaza including air, land, and water strikes. Just forty kilometers long and ten kilometers wide, and hosting one and a half million inhabitants Gaza remains one of the most overpopulated zones in the world. It only exists, according to El Universal, because of the "generous donors" of those against Israel's operation. The result of the war was that "Israel committed its seventh war against their Arabic neighbors" in its sixty year existence. But since the Palestinians had "nowhere to find refuge" there were 1400 civilians killed. One third of the victims were women and children, there were 5000 injured and "hundreds" of institutions destroyed. One of the "strategic" purposes of the war was to rescue kidnapped soldier, Gilad Shalit, and while Israel is closer in their negotiations they have not yet been successful.
This article is clearly anti-Israeli. Just like with the Goldstone Report, this article strives off the twisting of facts and information. It portrays the Palestinians as the victims of Israel's powerful regime. Not once does it mention Israeli casualties or the fact that the rocket fired by the Palestinians was not the first rocket fired, but that ketushas had been falling on cities such as sderot daily for years. The article also says that its the seventh war Israel committed against the Palestinians when this war as well as the others, had mutual effort on both sides. It also claims that the civilians had no place to find refuge, but it fails to note that the IDF warned the civilians that they were going to attack and that they should leave the area for their own protection. In the end it criticizes Israel because they did not achieve what they set out to do which was to rescue Gilad Shalit. It is this type of misinformation and criticism that creates such rampant anti- semitism within Venezuela. It is hard to be mutual and objective when you are only presented with one side of the story.

LINK TO ORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://economia.eluniversal.com/2009/12/26/int_ava_israel-gano-en-termi_26A3231293.shtml

Israel accuses of Chavez of creating an "Iranian Outpost" in Venezuela

El Universal reported that Isreali Foreign Affairs Vice- Minister, Dani Ayalon criticized President Hugo Chavez saying that, "The scope of the Iranian regime does not end in the Middle East. It is global, and reaches Africa and Latin America", during a press conference at the Jerusalem Center of Public Affairs. Most countries in Latin America are aware of the situation and afraid, while Venezuela is supporting a nuclear Iran.
This statement further damages the relationship between Venezuela and Israel and makes the threat even more clear. Venezuela's support of a nuclear Iran is known worldwide and it is ruining their alliances with other countries, including Israel who is most greatly threatened by this nuclear weapon. Venezuela's assistance is no longer secret making this public relationship even more dangerous and powerful then it was initially. El Universal is trying to twist the story and turn Israel into the bad guy by making it seem like they are making these claims with no evidential proof, which is completely untrue and only further increased Israeli criticism within Venezuela.

Link to Original Article:http://english.eluniversal.com/2009/11/03/en_pol_esp_israel-accuses-chave_03A2992491.shtml

Isreal Expels Venezuela Envoys

January 28, 2009

On January 27 Israel expelled all diplomatic staff from the Venezuelan Embassy, just a few days after Chavez ordered Jerusalem's envoys out of Venezuela. The move cut off the remaining ties that existed between the two countries. Chavez broke off the relationship a week before saying that Venezuela was permanently destroying diplomatic ties with Israel due to the "inhumane persecution of the Palestinian People carried out by the authorities of Israel."
This article only further displays the consequences of the operation in Gaza and how it destroyed Venezuelan- Israel ties. When Israel expelled Venezuelan diplomats, the relationship between the two countries was clearly over, to the dismay of the Jewish community. Currently it is very difficult for Israelis to get into Venezuela, due to the scarred relationship the two countries share. If there are no Israeli's helping to teach the community about the country of their people, it is difficult for the Venezuelans to learn first hand what is going on here. Especially for those Jews who are not economically fortunate enough to be able to travel to Israel. They are receiving misinformation from their own country on the happenings in Israel, and it is their responsibility to search for the truth within all the lies.

Link to original article:http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1059530.html

Venezuela Expels the Ambassador of Israel after Gaza Attacks

January 6, 2009

Last January, Venezuela expelled the Ambassador of Israel over the offensive in Gaza, only a few hours earlier President Hugo Chavez referred to the operation as a "holocaust" against the Palestinians. In recent years Chavez has constantly broken diplomatic envoys due to bilateral disputes, including last year where he expelled a U.S. ambassador after a conflict involving Bolivia. Due to OPEC's statement that Israel's campaign constituted "flagrant violations of international law" and used "state terrorism", Chavez decided to expel the Ambassador and part of the personnel of the Israeli embassy. In 2006 Chavez threatened to break ties with Israel after the operation in Gaza. On January 5,2009 Chavez accused the U.S. poisoning Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat in order to destabilize the middle east and allow for U.S. supported Military excursions into Arabic countries. Chavez said," The President of Israel should be taken to International Court right now as well as the President of the United States."
This event foreshadowed the issues the Venezuelan Jews are having currently. By expelling the Ambassador and breaking apart the embassy, Chavez greatly weakened Israeli influence in Venezuela. Without an embassy the country has no way to defend itself in a public forum which is exactly what Chavez wanted. He wanted to weaken the institution, in order to weaken the Jewish community in general. By taking away their main defense pulpit,he has left no choice for the Jews. Either they comply with him and agree with the general national stance, or they will be slowly forced out.

LINK TO ORIGINAL ARTICLE:http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN06444577