November 30, 2017

American Jew forced to sign loyalty oath to visit Israel

Mondoweiss - In an apparent escalation of Israel’s anti-BDS policy, an American Jew disclosed to Mondoweiss that in order to receive a valid visa they were forced to sign a loyalty oath to the state of Israel.

Just a few weeks ago, the individual, who wishes to remain anonymous for fear of retribution, was summoned to the Interior Ministry’s office to finally receive a valid visa after months of waiting and after discreditation of a previously issued one.

But the ministry official forced the interfaith activist and educator, who self-describes an upbringing with a “typical northeast liberal Jewish education,” to write and sign a letter declaring allegiance to the state in order to receive a tourist visa. This individual had to then reapply for a work visa, which grants a longer term stay.

Handwritten on official Ministry of Interior Population Immigration and Border Authority stationery, the letter, as dictated to the individual by an agent of the ministry reads:

“I declare that I will not do any activities against Israel, the army, and its institutions.”

Similar forms have been signed; supposed anti-occupation or pro-Palestinian individuals turned away at Israel’s borders; phones confiscated; emails read; and the just-how-Jewish-are-you game played before. Such tactics comprise the border authority’s arsenal.

3 comments:

Bill Hicks said...

"...who wishes to remain anonymous for fear of retribution..."

A true profile in courage right there. I was a whistleblower against the Bush administration. If you don't stand up an identify yourself, you are part of the problem.

Tom Puckett said...

Matthew 22:20-22

20 And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?

21 They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

22 When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left him, and went their way.

If it makes them feel good, sign the paper...

Cheers, Tom

Anonymous said...

For those who really believe, if you do right in god's viewpoint he is likely to protect you. If not eventually he is likely to abanden you. Plenty of examples in the bible, think on it and human choices.

So for those who really believe look to god and be doing right in his view ,,,, first and foremost.

So when and if things go badly , consider the above writing. God sees all, nothing hidden. Do your best and pray, Or do evil or badly on purpose and pray.... Do any really expect god to bless those not of good intention at the least?