Editor of Haaretz Speaks Up For New Israel Fund

New Israel Fund was honoured to have David Landau, editor of Haaretz, (Haaretz.com) visit us from Israel and speak on our behalf. David considered the time he spent with us as his "donation to the crucial work that New Israel Fund is carrying out in Israel". In a series of engaging talks, David addressed diverse NIF audiences throughout London. He spoke to 25 people at a private briefing hosted at Apax Partners, 100+ audience at New North London Synagogue, 30 young professionals at a lunch in Canary Wharf hosted by Clifford Chance, and over 60 congregants of Wimbledon and District Synagogue. As part of his packed schedule for New Israel Fund, he also addressed members of the BBC, the Times, the Independent and was hosted by the editor of the Guardian.

In his dynamic and very provoking talks, he challenged Jews who have traditionally criticised Sharon to stand behind him during the disengagement process. With reference to his paper's previously anti-Sharon stance he commented, "Haaretz has always seen itself as anti-establishment and has done its fair share in delighting in loathing and condemning Sharon - and now Haaretz is the most outspoken and consistent supporter of Sharon's policy of disengagement." At one point, with his head in his hands he said laughingly: "I cannot believe that I am standing in a London synagogue urging you to support Sharon".

Landau described the occupation as "an awful albatross hanging round the neck of our people's history" and the disengagement as a "cataclysmic" event in Jewish history and one that gives us an opportunity to be proud of Israel. He urged the audience to acknowledge that we are at a "very, very rare and unique moment in Israel and Jewish history" and encouraged them to "feel proud and hold your heads upright, to be outspoken and enthusiastic in support of what Israel will be doing two months from today."

In response to a question from the audience, he stressed that "Pulling out of Gaza is not a concession but an advantage to Israel." The many interesting and challenging questions that he faced were indicative of the diverse range of people that support New Israel Fund. We are delighted that David chose our organisation as one with which he wishes to identify.