Breaking the Gaza Blockade: Message From A Former Israeli Air Force Pilot

By Yonatan Shapira
Global Research, July 29, 2018
Just Future for Palestine 27 July 2018

Url of this article:
https://www.globalresearch.ca/breaking-the-gaza-blockade-message-from-a-former-israeli-air-force-pilot/5648942

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My name is Yonatan Shapira and I’m an Israeli citizen. I was a captain and a Blackhawk helicopter pilot in the Israeli Air Force. I never shot anyone and was flying mostly rescue missions but nevertheless, I realized that I was part of a terrorist organization. 15 years ago in 2003 I organized a group of 27 air force pilots who publicly refused to continue to take part in the oppression of the Palestinian people.

Since then I’ve been active in different organizations that struggle against the Israeli occupation and apartheid. I am a member of Boycott from Within – Israeli citizens who support the Palestinian call for boycott, divestment and sanctions.

This is my 4th attempt to break the Gaza blockade from the sea.

My message to the Israeli soldiers who are now training and preparing to board our boats and arrest us:

“Think about what you will tell your grandchildren in many years from now and not about what your friends will say about you today. Refuse to take part in this ongoing war crime. Refuse to continue murdering people who are locked in the biggest prison in the world. I was once one of you and I know that among you there are some who can still think. Refuse to be the guards of the Gaza ghetto.”

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