The S&D Group calls for the release of Jafar Farah, director of the Mossawa Center, the leading advocacy organisation of Arab citizens in Israel, and of all peaceful demonstrators. 21 people have been arrested and four have been hospitalised following the police crackdown on an unauthorised demonstration held by Palestinian citizens of Israel in solidarity with Gaza protesters yesterday evening in Haifa. 

 

 

“We condemn the crackdown on this demonstration. We are particularly concerned about the reported attack by police officers on Jafar Farah, director of the Mossawa Center - a close partner we regularly work together with - while in custody after his arrest, who has been transferred to hospital with injuries.

 

“We call for his release, and for the release of all those peaceful demonstrators who simply exercised their right to freedom of speech and protest. We also call for an independent investigation into this event. The excuse of public order cannot justify excessive police action. We will closely follow this case.”