MK Hanin Zoabi, who came under fire for saying she does not view the Hamas terrorists that abducted the yeshiva youths last week as “terrorists” for they are nothing more than “frustrated Palestinians” and their act was a “last resort” due to their plight.

Zoabi’s Balad party told the media in a prepared statement that the “occupation” is responsible for the abduction of the youths. The Balad MKs add that one simply has to look at the calls for revenge by Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman and MK Miri Regev to understand just how mad the Israeli political system is. Balad calls on the government to end the occupation of the PA (Palestinian Authority) and its residents and to adhere to United Nations resolutions. “Balad and MK Zoabi support the justified struggle against the occupation” the statement read, citing international law permits people to fight against their occupiers. The party’s statement does add it opposes hurting innocent people.

Speaking with Israel Radio on Wednesday morning 20 Sivan, MK (Hadash) Dov Khenin explained that he does not justify the act, particularly targeting children, but he is not willing to condemn Zoabi either. He explains that the policies of the government led to this and while he opposes involving children, he holds Israel responsible. He added that for him, “there is no difference between a Palestinian youth and a Jew” but he exhibits understanding for the actions that are a result of Israel’s ongoing unacceptable practices.

Names for Tehillim:

1. Yaakov Naftali ben Rachel Devorah

2. Gilad Michael ben Bat Galim

3. Eyal ben Iris Tesurah

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)