Students brace for onslaught
STUDENTS have been warned of the possibility of an escalation in tension around Australian university campuses in the wake of the Gaza flotilla raid this week.
AN escalation in tension around Australian university campuses is expected after the Gaza flotilla raid this week.
Australasian Union of Jewish Students (AUJS) vice-chairman Glen Falkenstein warned students need to be aware and report any incidents.
“If a student is harassed or intimidated on campus, then we encourage them to contact their campus AUJS president or their equity and diversity unit.”
Falkenstein said there has already been increased activity on campus.
Meanwhile, in order to best confront verbal attacks or hostile conversations over the flotilla crisis, the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies has emailed background information and interview transcripts to community members.
The information provides legal background, indicating that “Israel is currently in a state of armed conflict with Hamas” and as such “maritime blockades are a legitimate and recognised measure under international law”.
Israel exercised its right to enforce its blockade after passengers on the boats provided “clear intention to violate the blockade by means of written and oral statements”.
They have also circulated transcripts of official Knesset press responses from Israeli Government spokespeople.
JOSHUA LEVI
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