Palestinian ambassador visits Exeter

Exeter Friends of Palestine Society hosted an event marking the 60th anniversary of the Nakba, with a speech from the Palestinian Ambassador to the UK.

The event, held on 12 May at the Peter Chalk Centre, marked what Palestinians recognize as six decades of oppression under the Israeli regime, since their exodus in 1948 during the First Arab- Israeli War. Featuring prominent Oriental jazz musicians, the event commenced with a historical briefing on the origins and statistics of the Palestinian situation given by PhD politics student Aida Es-Said.

About 200 audience members were then given a talk by His Excellency Dr. Manuel Hassassian, highlighting the conflict between Palestine and Israel.

According to Hassassian, “the Nakba has never ceased since 1948. Palestine cannot compromise on sharing sovereignty over Jerusalem”.

Two days before Israel marked its Independence on 14 May, Dr. Hassassian pressed upon the Israeli government the need to “submit itself to the obligations of international legitimacy and international law”, without which he stated there would “never be peace and there would never be security”.

The Ambassador’s talk was succeeded by audience questions, followed by a short talk given by Israeli-born Gilad Atzmon on his conversion from soldier to musician.

After an intermission with Middle Eastern food being served, the cultural entertainment segment showcased saxophonist Atzmon and a four-piece band.

Celebrated Palestinian vocalist and oud player Nizar Al Issa performed a medley of traditional Palestinian songs, in collaboration with lead singer of Al Asheqeen Group, Mohamed Diab.

The event was brought to a close by a traditional Middle-Eastern folk dance performed by the Exeter Dabkeh Group.

When asked what the evening’s programme meant for Friends of Palestine, Society President Odai Masharqa noted, “It gave us a chance to show our ability to put on an amazing show with richness and diversity. I hope people from now on will look forward to our events.”