It is too easy for supporters of Israel to mouth platitudes without actually doing anything. Thus it is all the more encouraging that such organisations and individuals would take the time and trouble last Sunday to come together as they did to learn about more effective Israel advocacy. They are not simply “apologists” for Israel; they do not take an Israel-is-always-right stance, but are real friends who accept Israel warts and all and want to ensure it gets a fair hearing.

We hope these initiatives will grow and reach out to broader sections of the population - even to some who are hostile through ignorance rather than knowledge about the country and what is happening there, and might be shown there are two sides to the story and any fair hearing must also present Israel’s side.

Other excellent initiatives take non-Jewish South Africans - journalists, politicians, government officials, businessmen, artists, academics and so on - on visits to Israel, where they meet with a wide range of Israelis, from leaders and decision-makers to the man-in-the-street. They see the thriving democracy Israel is - albeit with flaws, as occur in all countries - where issues are hotly and seriously debated as is the case in any open democracy.

The country is a hub of culture and enterprise, with its people living and laughing - and agonising - not just a beleaguered war zone, as so many who are ignorant of the real Israel, believe.

Walking down the bustling Tel Aviv beach promenade, for example, from north Tel Aviv all the way down past the old city of Jaffa in the south, packed with people from all over the world, is a remarkable and inspiring experience.

The objective must be to erase the negative caricature perceptions of Israel which antagonists hold on to, and let them feel the texture and warmth of its people.

The goodwill among Israel’s friends needs to be brought out and embraced. We live in tough times and the threats against Israel are real. The country needs all the friends it can get. Seminars such as Israel Advocacy are an important step.

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