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CHRISTIANS UNITED FOR ISRAEL - UK ISSUE 12 | JAN 2019
M A G A Z I N E
NOT STAYING
SILENT
Understanding Countdown’s Rachel Riley
the Times takes on the anti-Semites
Introduction Contents
Welcome to Christians United for Israel UK’s 3 Understanding the Times
twelfth issue of the Torch magazine.
In this issue our main article highlights the
importance of not remaining silent in the
face of evil. Taking inspiration from the life
of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the commitment and
sacrifices made by the German pastor is a
reminder of the need for Christians to not
be silent amid the rise of anti-Semitism and 10 Next Year in Jerusalem
attack on Judeo-Christian values. We also take Who will be next to move “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil:
a look at some of the key challenges facing the their embassy to Jerusalem? God will not hold us guiltless. Not to
church in the present day.
speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”
In 2019 it is people like you and me that are — DIETRICH BONHOEFFER
called to stand for what is right. Rachel Riley,
the co-presenter of gameshow Countdown,
knew little about modern-day anti-Semitism
until recently, when she felt moved to speak
out. The result was a horrendous and personal
anti-Semitic backlash. Her story is both eye- 16 The Mother of Martyrs
opening and motivating.
Christians United for Israel is called for such
a time as this to present a Biblical perspective
on all that is happening concerning Israel.
I see our supporters as akin to the sons of
Issachar who had understanding of the times.
We will not remain silent during a rising tide
of anti-Semitism and increased opposition to 20 The United Nations has blood
our Judaeo-Christian values. on its hands
Thank you for your continued support for
CUFI UK.
22 Countdown’s Rachel Riley
takes on the anti-Semites
T here is a battle for truth across
this nation and throughout the
world that demands God-fearing
people to rise up and not be silent.
When it comes to anti-Semitism, the
under challenging circumstances, such as
persecution.
Understanding the times properly requires
us to determine with sincerity what is good,
truthful and honourable according to God’s
assault on Israel and the Jewish people requires Word whilst abhorring what is evil.
us to speak out. Similarly, Judeo-Christian Standing with Israel is the right thing to do
Des Starritt values are under attack and must be met because it is the Biblical thing to do. Rejecting
Executive Director with a vigorous defence while there is still the evil of anti-Semitism and lies surrounding
CUFI UK Christians United for Israel UK opportunity. Israel, for example, is necessary if we are
PO Box 3837, Swindon, SN3 9DS The Bible says in Romans 12:9, “Love must to cling onto what is right in obedience to
Tel: 01793 862210 be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is Almighty God.
Web: www.cufi.org.uk good.” But what happens when the pressure is on?
This verse in its context urges Christians to How do we respond when the nation, or even
Published by:
© CHRISTIANS UNITED FOR ISRAEL UK
possess a servant-hearted attitude particularly the church, remains silent in the face of evil?
All Rights Reserved
Cover Photo: Rachel Riley CUFI.ORG.UK 3
In a world of confusion and chaos, how Assembly of “Deutshe Christen”, 1933 of the German people, but with no prayers for September 1933, he attended the ecumenical
do we view events with a moral clarity and Hitler or for German victory, there was uproar World Alliance meeting in Sofia, Bulgaria,
measured foresight of what is taking place throughout Germany. where a resolution was passed condemning
around us? Nazi actions against Jews. Fired up with a
We take a look at the following example DIETRICH BONHOEFFER passion against this injustice, he presented the
from Germany in the 1930s and close by As dark clouds gathered over pre-war German Consul in Sofia with the resolution
highlighting some major battle grounds facing Germany, there were those who were prepared explaining that Nazi policies were damaging
the UK and Europe today and how you can to stand alone for the sake of justice and Germany’s image abroad. However, his
make a difference. righteousness. Courageous men and women outspokenness wasn’t appreciated by all
that understood the times and possessed a Christians back home in Germany. The
GERMANY 1930S moral conscience were prepared to not remain German Evangelical Church in Berlin
In 1933, a movement called Deutshe silent in the midst of this evil. One such man demanded he stopped his ecumenical activities
Christen (translated “German Christians”) was Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German-born at once, but Bonhoeffer refused.
began to promote the nazification of the theologian who had served in Spain in the Between September 1933 and April 1935, he
German Evangelical Church through the decade prior and had studied in New York. He served as pastor to several German-speaking
creation of a pro-Nazi “Reich Church”, having was one of the earliest voices against the rising fellowships in London. This caused them to
been persuaded by the Nazi Party statement on Nazi ideology, describing it as an illegitimate break away from the official German church,
“positive Christianity” that ironically claimed form of government and incompatible with his joining the Confessing Church instead. Back
to support religious freedom, yet was blatantly Christian faith. in Germany, however, the Confessing Church
anti-Semitic in its content. In a 1933 essay, he argued that the church was coming under increasing pressure by the
Unbelievably, the group wanted was called to question state injustice. Secondly, Gestapo. With many too fearful to oppose the
Protestantism to conform to the Nazi ideology. By 1939, around 75% he said it had an obligation to help all victims Nazis, those that did faced conflict from both
Some of its members called for total removal of injustice, whether they were Christian or sides. Bonhoeffer himself was becoming more
of any Jewish elements from the Bible, of German Protestant
not. Finally, he suggested the church might be and more isolated, but he didn’t give up.
including the Old Testament, defrocked clergy churches apparently called to “put a spoke in the wheel” to bring the Bonhoeffer understood the importance
of Jewish descent and pushed the narrative that approved the founding of machinery of injustice to a halt. of reaching young leaders. Having returned to
“the Jews had killed Jesus”. By 1939, around an anti-Semitic research Germany in 1935, he persisted in training young
75% of German Protestant churches apparently institute with the main RAISING THE ALARM clergy at an illegal seminary until it was closed
approved the founding of an anti-Semitic
research institute with the main task of creating task of creating a “Fifth Bonhoeffer didn’t remain silent. He put in September 1937 by the Gestapo. The “would-
Gospel” to support the the words of his pen into action. Already well be-Millennials” of today were very much on his
a “Fifth Gospel” to support the false doctrine travelled and connected, Bonhoeffer journeyed heart and worth fighting for. He spent the next
of an “Aryan Jesus”. false doctrine of an throughout Europe and the United States two years secretly travelling throughout eastern
Unsurprisingly the Nazis found Deutshe “Aryan Jesus”. reporting on the situation in Nazi Germany to Germany to attend to his students, many of
Christen a useful group to consolidate its church leaders of various denominations. In whom were ministering illegally.
power before ultimately removing its leaders.
They didn’t represent all Christians in fundamental doctrine that placed government
Germany and received opposition from many as one of God’s ways through which He rules
church leaders. This led to the formation of the world (the second being the church)
the Confessing Church in 1934, which took a and that obedience to the government was
bold stand against Deutshe Christen. Despite a Christian duty. Opposition to government
this, most leaders avoided criticism of the Nazi therefore was viewed as rebellion towards
regime and there was still a silence about the divine order. The rise of Nazism put this belief
persecution of German Jews. to the ultimate test. Although there were
Although the Confessing Church those like Bonhoeffer that decided to reject
recognised the threat of the Third Reich, this position and not yield to the Nazi state,
rejected the impending war and were critical there were many that chose to stay silent.
of the Deutshe Christen that willingly and Bonhoeffer’s famous quote, “Silence in the
openly colluded with the Nazis, it was actually face of evil is evil itself,” could not have been
a theological bond that prevented many within a more desperately relevant message for the
the Confessing Church from openly opposing church as the fate of the Jewish people in With many too fearful to oppose
the regime directly. Lutheranism, which formed Europe drew closer. In 1938 when three leaders the Nazis, those that did faced
a large part of German Protestantism and was of the Confessing Church circulated a prayer of conflict from both sides. Bonhoeffer
associated with historic anti-Semitism, held a confession and intercession, repenting of sins A meeting of pastors of the
himself was becoming more and
Confessing Church movement.
4 CUFI.ORG.UK Bonhoeffer can be seen on the far left. more isolated, but he didn’t give up.
Bonhoeffer’s efforts appeared to be “We have learned a Dietrich Bonhoeffer memorial,
outside the Great West Door,
Discipleship, written during the rise of
coming to an end when in January 1938, the bit too late in the day the Nazi regime, is considered a modern
Westminster Abbey
brave pastor was banned from Berlin and later classic.
forbidden from public speaking. He was later that action springs His last writing before his execution
also banned from printing and publishing. not from thought but was Letters and Papers from Prison, in
Gravely concerned about what was from a readiness for which he penned, “There remains an
happening to the Jewish people, the church responsibility”. experience of incomparable value. We
and his country, it was only a matter of time have for once learned to see the great
before Bonhoeffer was faced with one of events of world history from below,
the biggest challenges of his conscience – Confessing Church, Friedrich Perels, the from the perspective of the outcasts, the
conscripting to the war himself. pair sent details of plans to deport Berlin suspects, the maltreated — in short, from
But in 1939 Bonhoeffer had an opportunity Jews to foreign contacts as well as trusted the perspective of those who suffer. Mere
to escape Germany to the United States. He German military officials, in the hope that waiting and looking on is not Christian
accepted an invitation to New York only to the plans could be thwarted. behaviour. Christians are called to
soon regret his decision. Despite pressure He then became involved in an compassion and to action.”
from friends to stay, he wrote the following in ambitious plan to get the Jews out In the same prison papers he wrote,
a letter, “I have come to the conclusion that I of Germany by giving them foreign “We have learned a bit too late in the
made a mistake in coming to America. I must papers. Known as “Operation Seven”, day that action springs not from thought
live through this difficult period in our national the Gestapo uncovered the plot and but from a readiness for responsibility”.
history with the people of Germany. I will have Bonhoeffer and his brother-in-law were It was this sense of responsibility
no right to participate in the reconstruction arrested in April 1943. that drove the exceptional Dietrich
of Christian life in Germany after the war if Bonhoeffer was initially charged Bonhoeffer. He discerned with foresight
I do not share the trials of this time with my with conspiring to rescue Jews, using and clarity the earliest stages of the
people... Christians in Germany will have to his foreign travels for non-intelligence increasing persecution of the Jewish
face the terrible alternative of either willing the matters, and misusing his intelligence people. Not content on being a bystander
defeat of their nation in order that Christian position to help Confessing Church to anti-Semitism, he was also burdened
civilization may survive or willing the victory of pastors evade military service. by the direction his homeland was
their nation and thereby destroying civilization. When the attempted coup of 20 headed by becoming absorbed by the
I know which of these alternatives I must July, 1944, failed, Bonhoeffer’s links to wickedness of such evil. He recognised
choose but I cannot make that choice from the wider resistance movement were the important role that the church played
security.” He returned to Germany on the last discovered and he was moved to the in combating injustice and suffering and
scheduled steamer to cross the Atlantic. Gestapo prison in Berlin. In February worked tirelessly to influence his Christian
1945, he was taken to Buchenwald brethren.
A MISSION OF A concentration camp and in April moved But when the church fell silent,
DIFFERENT KIND to the Flossenbürg concentration camp Bonhoeffer held onto principles that are
But God has not finished with His faithful where he would pay the ultimate price. worth adopting today. Yes, we thankfully
servant. Even through this, Bonhoeffer was not On 9 April, Dietrich Bonhoeffer may not be confronted with the same type
prepared to compromise his Christian values. was hanged with other conspirators. of threat that preceded the Holocaust,
Bonheoffer’s brother-in-law, Hans von His brother Klaus Bonhoeffer was also but we should be alert to the disturbing
Dohnanyi, worked in the Justice Ministry and executed for resistance activities, as were warning signs that accompany an evil in
was a strong opponent of the regime as well. his brothers-in-law Hans von Dohnanyi our midst that bears the same hallmarks.
He was able to help Bonheoffer avoid military and Rüdiger Schleicher. With a third of Europeans having
service, obtaining an assignment in the office never heard of the Holocaust, or “just
of Military Intelligence. This office began the LASTING LEGACY a little” about it, there is no room
centre of a resistance movement that ended In the years since his death, for complacency. The 2018 poll,
with an attempt to overthrow the regime in Bonhoeffer has become widely known as commissioned by CNN, revealed that in
1944 with the failed assassination of Adolf one of the few Christian martyrs in an era France one out of five people between the
Hitler. otherwise stained by Christian complicity ages of 18 and 34 have never heard of the
On behalf of Military Intelligence, he with Nazism. Holocaust. In Austria, where Hitler was
made several trips outside the Reich in 1941 Meanwhile, Bonhoeffer’s letters born, 12% of young people said they had
and 1942, informing ecumenical contacts and theological works still influence never heard of the Holocaust, whilst 4 out
in Geneva and the Vatican of the resistance Christians throughout the world. of 10 Austrian adults said they know “just
plans. Working with another member of the His most famous book, The Cost of a little”.
6 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 7
youth? Because Bonhoeffer knew the
UNDERSTANDING importance of passing the baton to the
next generation. And when it comes to
THE CURRENT CLIMATE Israel, let us not forsake our duty to instil
a heart for the Jewish people. The next
generation must be prepared to stand
firmly through what lies ahead. Let us
Today, the UK and Europe face Germany is a solemn reminder of not give up on our young people. Pray
growing anti-Semitism at levels not the dangers of deliberately portraying for them and let’s harness their passions
prayer
seen in the West since World War 2. evil as good and darkness as light. For towards standing for the truth.
Whilst far right anti-Semitism still exists example, the attempt by the “Reich
4. Pray for
80 years since the Allied nations rose Church” to eradicate the Jewishness
up to defeat it, Western Europe is also of Scripture should act as a warning to the nation.
experiencing anti-Semitism from two Christians today especially in light of the The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy
CUFI
UK
other directions: an emergence from destructive, anti-Semitic, “replacement to pray for kings and all who are in
the far left and the significant rise of theology” that some churches have authority “that we may lead a quiet
radical Islam, which is also the greatest embraced. The church needs to wake up and peaceable life in all godliness and
threat to Israel and the West. and realise that many are being deceived reverence.” The Bible says that God will
Meanwhile, our treasured Judeo- by lies rather than seeing truth. Every judge the rulers of the earth for how
Christian values are also in danger from person can be like Dietrich Bonhoeffer – they use, or misuse, their authority. It is
the same threats alongside an aggressive a single light in the darkness warning of imperative that we pray for the state of
form of secular humanism, leading to the times in which we live. our nation and for its leaders.
rapid moral decline in our nation and a We must also pray for the Jewish
hostility towards Christianity itself.
And despite living in an era of 2. We need to encourage
one another.
community in this nation and that the
NOW IS THE TIME TO BE A
Watchman
church will have boldness to stand
supposedly unlimited access to news Proverbs 4:7 states, “Wisdom against anti-Semitism. Pray also that
and information, an increasingly is the principal thing; Therefore get Britain will stand with Israel.
on the wall
manipulative agenda-setting media is wisdom. And in all your getting, get
5.
contributing to an even more divided
and polarised society.
understanding.” Do not remain
Whilst the UK experiences these
Bonhoeffer had clear vision about silent.
the emerging threats and never gave up Bonhoeffer was a victim of an assault
dramatic shifts, a largely silent and in helping fellow Christians understand
compromised church stands at a on freedom of speech. Nevertheless,
the times in which they were living. he spoke the truth. History shows that
crossroads regarding its position on Some compromised, some isolated
Israel as does the government, whose shutting down freedom of speech is
themselves and others paid the ultimate one of the first stages of a slippery slope
foreign policy on this issue is weak and price. The times we are living in calls
blinkered. towards other freedom restrictions. This
for Christians to encourage and edify freedom must be defended, but even if
This is the time for people like one another with the Word of God and
Bonhoeffer, people like you to rise up, silenced, we must not give up speaking
with Godly wisdom and understanding. out against anti-Semitism and defend our
cling to what is good and condemn the Cling onto what is good. Never give up.
evil in our midst. Judeo-Christian values, regardless of the
Believe that you can make a difference cost.
Here are a few ways you can in your lifetime. Ask for God’s wisdom
make an impact: As Dietrich Bonhoeffer has famously
to understand the times we are living in said,
and do not lose heart.
1. We need to warn the
church.
The Bible says, “Woe to those who 3. Don’t give
“Silence in the face of
evil is itself evil:
up on the younger God will not hold us
call evil good, and good evil; Who put
darkness for light, and light for darkness; generation. guiltless. Join the prayer network at
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for Bonhoeffer made asserted efforts Not to speak www.cufi.org.uk/prayer
bitter! (Isaiah 5:20). to reach young Christians, even is to speak.
risking his own life doing so. Why the
The political climate of 1930s Not to act is to act.”
8 CUFI.ORG.UK
NEXT YEAR IN AUSTRALIA
In December 2018, Australia ended
JERUSALEM
speculation that it was set to recognise
Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by surprisingly
only recognising “West Jerusalem” and
announcing it will not move its embassy until
there is a peace settlement between Israel and
the Palestinians.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison added that
Australia will recognise east Jerusalem as a
Palestinian capital after a deal has been reached
for a “two-state solution”. Described as “a step
in the right direction” by the US, Morrison said
WHO WILL BE NEXT TO MOVE the government will establish a defence and
THEIR EMBASSY TO JERUSALEM? trade office in Jerusalem and will also start
looking for an appropriate site for the embassy.
The earlier suggestion that Australia was
considering recognising Jerusalem received
a backlash from the Arab League, which with
R
the exception of Bahrain, was still not satisfied
ecognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital acknowledges the with the compromise. Meanwhile, Malaysia
reality that Jerusalem is the eternal, undivided capital of had warned that terrorist attacks could occur
on Australian targets if the Embassy is moved
the Jewish people. CUFI believes that more countries will follow
the United States in moving their embassies to the Holy City.
and Indonesia had threatened to not sign a free BRAZIL
trade agreement with Australia.
We take a look at which country could be next, but also highlight The New Year has started with very
some of the obstacles that must first be overcome. encouraging signs from Brazil as newly elected
President Jair Bolsonaro confirmed to media
that he will definitely move his country’s
embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and that it
is only a matter of time.
AUSTRIA The move by the pro-Israel president
would fulfil a promise made during his election
Austria was one of four European countries campaign.
alongside Romania, Hungary and the Czech Bolsonaro said that “the only weighty voice
Republic that broke with the EU position by speaking out against me is Iran.” Some of the
attending the opening of the US embassy “more radical” Arab nations “might adopt
in Jerusalem. This resulted in the respective some sort of sanction — I hope only economic
countries’ ambassadors being recalled by the ones — against us,” he said.
Palestinian Foreign Ministry. The move would be ground-breaking in
This led to speculation that Austria could relations between Israel and Brazil, which
follow the US in moving its embassy, but hopes has a strong pro-Israel support from the large
of an imminent move have since diminished. Christian evangelical community. Prime
However Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz Minister Netanyahu was in Brazil in December
hopes it will “happen sometime” when a to attend Bolsonaro’s inauguration and the
solution is found through negotiations and relationship between the two countries looks
when “peace is achieved”. set to go from strength to strength.
10 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 11
CANADA EUROPEAN UNION HUNGARY ROMANIA
Whilst an embassy move hasn’t Shortly before the US embassy’s dedication Hungary very much led the The president of Romania’s Chamber of Deputies and
been suggested by the government, ceremony began in Jerusalem, the Czech Republic, way in blocking the EU from Liviu Dragnea, a member of Romania’s governing party,
Canada’s main opposition party, Hungary and Romania blocked a full 28-nation European condemning the US embassy told a television channel in April 2018 that the “government
the Conservative Party, adopted a Union from publishing a statement condemning the move. Not only did they help adopted a memorandum deciding to start the procedure to
resolution in August 2018 recognising move. block an EU condemnation in May effectively move the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.”
Jerusalem as capital of Israel and The aforementioned Czech Republic president, 2018, it also blocked an earlier EU No move has materialised, but it was reported that
advocating the move of Canada’s Milos Zeman accused the EU in their response to statement after Trump made the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, had called Romanian
embassy. With elections forecast to Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, initial announcement. Hungary president Klaus Iohannis in April attempting to persuade
take place before end of 2019, this could saying, “The European Union, cowards, are doing all stood alone and was soon followed him not to relocate his country’s embassy.
become a campaign issue worth noting. they can so a pro-Palestinian terrorist movement can by the Czech Republic, forcing the Later that month, Romania’s president asked Romania’s
have supremacy over a pro-Israeli movement.” EU foreign affairs chief, Federica pro-Israel prime minister Viorica Dancila to resign because
Mogherini, to issue a statement in of the government’s approval to relocate the embassy. It
her own name only. is unclear if Merkel’s call to Iohannis played a role in his
Despite Hungary’s boldness, decision.
the country has no current plan However, reports in the Jerusalem Post claim that Merkel
to move its embassy in the near personally phoned European leaders in April 2018 with
CZECH REPUBLIC future. the message that an embassy move “cannot happen under
GUATEMALA any circumstances.” The allegations pointed to the fact
Hours after President Trump gave that several central and eastern European countries were
recognition of Jerusalem on 6 December Guatemala made history in May 2018 becoming considering the move before receiving calls from Berlin and
2017, the Czech Republic made a similar the second nation to officially open its new embassy in formed part of a push by Merkel to save the Iran nuclear Deal.
announcement, however it made clear Jerusalem, two days after the US made the same move.
that it was only giving recognition to the But did you know that it was also the second country
western part of Jerusalem. after the US to recognise the State of Israel in 1948? PARAGUAY
The country opened “Czech “It is not a coincidence that Guatemala is opening its
House” in November 2018 as the “first embassy in Jerusalem two days after the US. You are always Less than four months after
step in the plan to move the Czech among the first,” Netanyahu said at the opening ceremony. becoming the third country to
embassy to Jerusalem”. As part of open a new embassy to Jerusalem, UNITED KINGDOM
three stages towards the opening of an Paraguay shockingly reversed its
embassy, the new facility houses Czech decision following pressure from The UK government clarified that the status of Jerusalem
cultural, investment, trade and tourism the Palestinian Authority. should be determined in a “negotiated settlement between
offices. Former Paraguayan president, the Israelis and the Palestinians” and that Jerusalem should
Czech president, Milos Zeman, Horacio Cartes, opened the ultimately form a “shared capital between the Israeli and
is a strong supporter of Israel and HONDURAS embassy in Jerusalem towards Palestinian states.”
even promoted moving the nation’s the end of his term in office. But the UK’s position is hypocritical. Despite claiming
embassy prior to President Trump’s Honduras is expected to be one of the next Mario Abdo Benitez, of the same to treat both sides equally in the Israel-Palestinian conflict,
historic move. Zeman attended the countries to open an embassy in Jerusalem. Whilst in conservative Colorado party, Britain’s representative to Israel is in Tel Aviv, however
US embassy opening, as well as that Brazil in December, Prime Minister Netanyahu met took over from Cartes in August Britain’s representative to the Palestinians is in Jerusalem.
of Guatemala and Paraguay. But the with Honduran president, Juan Orlando Hernandez 2018. But the following month the The UK is indulging the Palestinian’s claim to Jerusalem
Czech prime minister, who will have and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to discuss Palestinian foreign ministry visited whilst actively disregarding Israel’s right to Jerusalem.
the final say in any move, has voiced plans to move the Central American nation’s embassy Paraguay and two weeks later the
opposition to the embassy’s relocation to Jerusalem and agreed to pursue a plan of action. embassy was moved back to Tel A petition, started by CUFI UK, is almost
and seems unwilling to break with the In April 2018, the Honduran National Congress Aviv. It is believed that Benitez was at 30,000 signatures and calls for Britain
EU’s position on the issue. Plus Arab passed a non-binding resolution with an overwhelming convinced by the Palestinians with to recognise Jerusalem as Israel capital and
attempts to prevent the move have majority in favour of moving the Honduras embassy the promise of future investment in move the embassy. To add your name, go to
intensified in recent months. from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. the country from other Arab states. www.cufi.org.uk/Jerusalem
12 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 13
7
HOW TO
PRAY
Let us thank the Lord for the
nations that have recognised
Jerusalem. Pray also for those
that have made the first step
towards moving their embassy. As
illustrated in his article, countries This double sided fold-out leaflet with
considering the move can expect Reasons Why Christians Should
intimidation and threats by Support Israel and a selection of relevant Subscribe to TORCH
Arab groups, opposition from
international bodies, pressure
Scriptures on the reverse. Handy pocket
size makes it is a useful tool for personal Magazine for free
use or as a tract to give away.
from within or other geo-political
UNITED STATES repercussions. Whilst the world
Request your free leaflets from CUFI.ORG.UK/SUBSCRIBE
may object, there is blessing in
doing the will of God. www.cufi.org.uk/prayer/resources
The historic opening of the US embassy in
Jerusalem took place on Israel’s 70th anniversary
of independence on 14 May 2018. President
Trump’s decision to move the embassy fulfilled WHAT
NEXT?
a campaign promise that ended over two
decades of former presidents putting off the
move. Almost one year since its opening, the site
“I consider CUFI to be a vital part
of the embassy in Jerusalem’s Talpiot district Who will become the next country of Israel’s national security”
has become almost a type of pilgrimage for to move its embassy? Eight nations
many tourists from around the world, with some sided with the United States at Benjamin Netanyahu
choosing to take selfies and Christian groups the UN vote condemning its Prime Minister of Israel
praying and bursting into song, acknowledging recognition of Jerusalem, including
the prophetic significance of America’s Guatemala and Honduras. They
recognition of Israel’s capital. also included the Pacific island
cufi
Watch our exclusive tour of inside countries of Micronesia, Palau,
the US embassy. Go to www.cufi.org.uk/ Marshall Islands and Nauru. Togo
insidetheembassy also voted in support of the US.
membership
Could it become the first African
nation to move its embassy or
could it be Rwanda that has
recently strengthened bilateral ties
with Israel? Several other African
countries abstained at the UN
VANUATU along with most Central American Individuals · Groups · Churches
mainland and Caribbean nations
Did you know that six months before the along with the Philippines, which
US, Vanuatu recognised Jerusalem as Israel’s has good relations with Israel. Israel With your support we can make an even
capital? The president of the small Pacific Island
nation, who is an evangelical Christian, signed
has also invited other possible
countries such as Poland. Keep
greater impact for Israel in the UK
that Jerusalem should be recognised as Israel’s watching and praying – the move to
capital and condemned UNESCO for its anti- Jerusalem has only just begun.
Israel bias.
Join online at www.cufi.org.uk/membership
14 CUFI.ORG.UK or call 01793 86 22 10
CUFI.ORG.UK 15
7
THE MOTHER OF T here is a Palestinian woman
who is described by Palestinian
Here are her son’s achievements:
martyrs
state television as “a role model 1. ‘Abd Al-Mun’im Abu Hmeid was
for every Palestinian woman” and “a active in the Hamas military wing,
crown on all our heads”. She has been the ‘Izz Al-Din Al-Qassam Brigades,
awarded “The Plaque of Resoluteness and was killed by Israel. He assisted
and Giving” by the Palestinian in the murder of three Israelis in
Authority and was honoured to be the West Bank on December 14,
chosen as the official figurehead for 1990 and the murder of another
the Palestinian bid for statehood with Israeli on February 13, 1994.
the United Nations in 2011. Today, her
family receives more money from the 2. Nasser Abu Hmeid, one of the
“The Palestinian mother is a central partner in the struggle... founders of Fatah’s military wing,
Palestinian Authority than any other
It is she who gave birth to the fighters, and she deserves Palestinian family. the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades, was
that we bow to her in salute and in honour.” The “role model” being described is Latifa a deputy to Marwan Barghouti,
Abu Hmeid. She is famous because her six sons Fatah Secretary-General in the
have murdered seventeen Jews. West Bank during the Second
Four of Abu Hmeid’s sons are in Israeli Intifada, and took an active part in
prisons, one is (at the time of writing) on trial the lynching of two Israeli soldiers
in an Israeli court, and the sixth was killed in Ramallah on October 12, 2000.
by Israeli soldiers in Gaza. He is listed as a He is serving seven consecutive
“martyr” by the Palestinian Authority, one life sentences and an additional
of the highest honours in Islam. Despite the 50 years for the murder of seven
atrocities of her children, Latifa believes she is Israelis and 12 additional attempted
doing what is right. Here are her own words: murders.
3. Sharif Abu Hmeid was active in
“For 70 years we have been the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades and
trying with Israel. We want supplied weapons and assistance
peace and extend our hands to for the execution of terror attacks
in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv during
peace, while they extend their February and March 2002. He
hands to murder and crime. is serving four consecutive life
We are even prepared to live sentences.
in peace between us, but they
don’t want peace. They are 4. Muhammad Abu Hmeid is serving
blood suckers.” two consecutive life sentences
plus 30 years for planning suicide
– Latifa Abu Hmeid (December 2018) attacks for the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’
Brigades.
Latifa’s words are the absolute opposite of 5. Nasr Abu Hmeid was active with
reality. Does Latifa believe the lies she speaks Nasser in the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’
or is she wilfully trying to deceive? Every right Brigades and is currently serving
minded person knows that sending your sons five consecutive life sentences for
to murder Jews is the absolute opposite of planning suicide attacks.
extending a hand to peace. And Israel is the
one that has repeatedly made concessions for 6. Islam Abu Hmeid killed an Israeli
peace whilst the Palestinians have rejected soldier by dropping a slab of marble
every peace deal. from the roof of a building in Al-
The inspiration for Latifa Abu Hmeid’s A’mari in May 2018. In 2004-2008
willingness to sacrifice her children comes he served a prison sentence for a
from the story al-Khansa, the original “Mother shooting attack he perpetrated on
of Martyrs”. behalf of Hamas.
Al-Khansa was a 7th-century Arabic poet
16 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 17
7
who is the best known female poet in Arabic money is their motive. There are also religious On live Palestinian television, President
literature. She lived during the life of the and societal motives. Abbas said:
Islamic prophet Mohammed and was a convert In December last year, Israel took the “I say this to everyone - the salaries of
to Islam. In her time, the role of a female poet decision to destroy the family home of Latifa our Martyrs, prisoners, and wounded are a
was to write elegies for the dead and perform Abu Hmeid. It was a punitive measure to red line.
them for the tribe in public oral competitions. demonstrate to Palestinians that even a They [Israel] try by all means, and exert
Al-Khansa won respect and fame in these celebrity was not safe from having her home pressure by all means, and they continue to
competitions with her elegies for her brothers, destroyed. exert pressure: “It cannot be that you will
Șakhr and Mu‘āwiyah, who had died in battle. pay.” And they’ll even deduct our money
In 636 AD, during the first period of Muslim that’s in their hands. They’ll deduct from it
conquests, al-Khansa, according to tradition, the amount that we pay to the Martyrs. We
sent her four sons to join the army. During the have said that this is a red line and we will
Battle of Qadissiyyah, in which the Muslim not allow [it].
armies defeated the Persians, all four of her From 1965 until now, this matter is
sons were killed. When she was later informed sacred to us. The Martyrs and their
that they had fallen she responded with the families are sacred, [and so are] the
words, “Praise to Allah who has honoured me wounded and the prisoners. We must
with their deaths”. pay all of them. If one penny remains in
These words have been used throughout our hands it is for them and not for the
the centuries to teach Muslim mothers of the We are told by the Palestinian Authority living.”
supposed noble cause of giving their children that these payments are simply “social welfare When President Abbas met with Latifa
for the cause of Allah. In the case of the payments to the families of prisoners”. The in the aftermath of the demolition, they The world has been deceived into believing
Palestinians, that "holy" cause is the liberation excuse is that because the man is in prison, both lauded each other with praise and that the Palestinian Authority is a “partner
of “Palestine”. he can no longer provide for his family and so condemned Israel. Latifa thanked Abbas for for peace”. Whilst Israel seeks peace, the
It is now common for the Palestinian now it is up to the state to provide. his commitment to paying the families of Palestinians have shown the opposite to be
Authority and Hamas to refer to Palestinian It is clear to the world that this narrative prisoners and martyrs and Abbas praised her as true. Over the years they have rejected every
women as the “mothers of martyrs”, with is a con. Even the World Bank states that, “the an example to all Palestinians. PA TV also ran peace offer made by Israel. Despite signing
many aspiring to be a “Khansa of Palestine”. An program is clearly not targeted to the poorest segments of praise for the “Mother of Martyrs”, the Oslo Accords with Israel, their continued
indication of how radical Islam has warped the households. The level of resources devoted interviewed her on a number of occasions incitement and payments to terrorists is in
mind of these mothers to raise their children to the Fund for Martyrs and the Injured does and continued to spread the narrative that direct violation of the agreement they signed.
for martyrdom instead of raising them in love. not seem justified from a welfare or fiscal Palestinian mothers are most honoured when The incitement from the Palestinian
perspective.” they are willing to sacrifice their children for leadership is reinforced at home through the
The Palestinian leadership has also the cause. “mothers of martyrs” who teach their children
THE PAYMENTS confirmed this lie themselves. In December Despite the wealth of the Abu Hmeid to aspire for “death for Allah” in what they see
TO TERRORISTS 2012, PA Minister of Prisoners’ Affairs, Issa family, they are not needing to spend a penny as a “holy” mission to “liberate Palestine”.
ARE “SACRED” TO Karake, confirmed that the categorisation of
the prisoners’ “salaries” as social “assistance”
to repair their home. The Palestinian Authority
have themselves vowed to pay all the expenses
The Mother of Martyrs is a role model for
evil that is spread through Islamic teaching and
PALESTINIANS was an incorrect “rumour” and that the salaries and rebuild the home with state money. reinforced with financial rewards. Through this
are authorised to them “out of esteem for their They will also accommodate Latifa during its deception, Palestinian mothers are ultimately
Payments to the families of terrorists are sacrifice and struggle”. It is not hard to see construction. condemning their children and their children’s
a powerful incentive. No truer is this than for these payments for what they really are: a form So why did the “cash strapped” Palestinian children to a future of hatred and violence.
the Abu Hmeid family. Because of the actions of reward for prisoners’ terror acts. In other Authority decide to fund such a lavish home Until this cycle is broken, there can never be
of her six sons, Latifa Abu Hmeid now receives words “Pay for Slay”. for a family they have already given close to a peace.
more money from the Palestinian Authority Sadly, this financial benefit has proved million pounds to?
than any other Palestinian family. They have to be a worthwhile incentive for many This is a way for the Palestinian leadership
been given close to £1 million in total and are Palestinians. Israel has attempted to counter its to show their people that they are committed “Woe unto them that call evil good,
currently receiving around £7,730 every month, appeal by destroying the homes of terrorists. to the cause. It encourages Palestinians to
with this figure set to rise once Islam Abu carry out terror attacks in the knowledge that
and good evil; that put darkness for
They do this so a family may think twice about
Hmeid is convicted. encouraging their members to carry out an their family will be rewarded. It also tells the light, and light for darkness; that put
In 2018, the Palestinian Authority budgeted attacks. They realise that they will receive a Palestinians not to worry about their house bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
£278 million to pay the families of martyrs monthly salary from the PA, but they will lose being knocked down, because the families of – Isaiah 5:20
and prisoners. This budget was signed off by their home in process and therefore they must the prisoners and martyrs will always be looked
President Abbas himself. weigh up the cost. This only works, however, if after by the Palestinian Authority.
18 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 19
7This action was used by the leadership The day after the Israeli baby died, further
of Hamas to show their strength at the global Hamas terror attacks took place. One of
body. That the world stands with their actions the incidents happened a few miles away at
and that Israel is weak. It was used by the another bus stop when another Palestinian
Hamas leadership to incite violence on Israelis. terrorist gunman murdered two Israeli men;
Just days after the UN failed to condemn off-duty soldiers who were waiting for a bus.
Hamas, terrorists from the organisation This was followed by a flurry of stabbing and
specifically targeted Israeli civilians – a car ramming attacks in the weeks following
pregnant mother, two schoolgirls and other and an increase in violent protests at the Israel-
people waiting at a bus stop. Eight people Gaza border.
were injured in the attack, but the most severe Would these attacks have happened if the
was the pregnant woman who was shot in UN condemned Hamas or if international
the stomach and began to lose a lot of blood. pressure was placed upon them? Perhaps.
When she arrived in hospital, doctors were However, the United Nations’ failure to
forced to deliver her baby prematurely in an condemn the group appears to have spurned
attempt to save the lives of both mother and them into action and given them legitimacy..
child. Unfortunately, The UN has given
despite intense efforts them the impression
by medical teams, the that they can act with
baby died a few days impunity and there
later in hospital. was a marked increase
Thankfully the They are telling following the United
mother, Shira Ish-Ran, the world, and in Nations failure to
has survived and is now condemn terrorism
on the road to recovery. particular those against Israelis.
She named her son who hate Israel, And this is the
Amiad Israel, which that it is okay that sticking point. The UN
means the Jewish is not only failing to
people will be in the Jewish women condemn a terrorist
land of Israel forever. and children are organisation, but they
And Shira defiantly are also failing to show
declared, “I will prove targeted and killed. that they care about the
to them, I will show lives of Israelis. They
The United Nations has
them. I will bring many are telling the world,
more babies into this and in particular those
world. Am Yisrael Chai who hate Israel, that
(the nation of Israel lives).” it is okay that Jewish women and children are
blood on its hands. The response from Hamas to this
despicable attack was predictable. They praised
the murder of an innocent baby as “heroic”
targeted and killed. This is the biggest crime of
the United Nations’ actions.
The United Nations was established to
and when Israel tracked down and eliminated prevent wars and protect innocent lives, but it
A
the gunman, Hamas announced its “great is failing in its mission. Whilst it still acts as the
t the end of last year, as Jews The vote stood at 87 countries in favour pride” in the “death of its martyr Salih Omar moral compass for the world, the truth is it has
celebrated Hanukkah around the of condemning Hamas, 57 countries against Barghouti, the perpetrator of the heroic Ofra lost its direction and is unlikely to find its way
world, the UN General Assembly condemning Hamas and 33 countries who operation”. again. It has been hijacked by those who hate
voted on a resolution to condemn Hamas. abstained. The vote failed to reach a two-thirds This is the same organisation that calls for the Jewish State and has become the global
This resolution would have been the majority – a rule implemented by a last-minute the destruction of Israel as part of its mission epicentre of anti-Semitism.
first condemnation ever handed out by Arab-led amendment. statement, that vows to cleanse the land of Shame on the United Nations and
the United Nations against the terrorist Whilst Israel has been condemned Israel from its Jewish population and even shame on every country that voted against or
organisation that controls the Gaza Strip. hundreds of times by the global body, including sacrifices its own people in order to achieve abstained from condemning Hamas; every one
Instead, the nations of the world failed to nine condemnations in a single day in these aims. And to point out once again that of them has the blood of an innocent Jewish
pass the resolution and once again let Hamas December 2018, the terrorists of Hamas are yet despite its atrocities, Hamas has never been baby on their hands.
off the hook. to be condemned. That’s never. Not once. Zero. condemned by the United Nations.
20 CUFI.ORG.UK CUFI.ORG.UK 21
7online.
Instead of being cowed into
cufi
membership
silence. Rachel spoke out more
Countdown’s often, to the point where almost
every day she is highlighting anti-
Rachel Riley
Semitic incidents on her social
media feeds and challenging those Support Israel with a regular
who spout their hatred. She explains
monthly donation.
takes on the it is becoming “all consuming” at
points.
Rachel has also had the
anti-Semites opportunity to share her story on
a variety of TV interviews, such as
on Lorraine and Channel 4 News.
K
Rachel even skipped a TV awards
nown in British households day that anti-Israel protesters illegally placed ceremony in order to attend an
as the “Numbers lady” from “Israel is a racist endeavour” posters on bus event on anti-Semitism.
Countdown, having co-presented stops across London. Most of the abuse that Rachel
the show for the past ten years, Rachel This poster campaign was in direct receives is from far-left activists
Riley has been using her voice to speak response to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn’s and Corbyn supporters. Asked why
out against anti-Semitism, challenging claim that it was not anti-Semitic to say Jeremy Corbyn bears responsibility
the attitudes within the Labour party that Israel was a racist endeavour. This was for this crowd, Rachel explained,
and standing up to bullies on social one of the statements that Corbyn wanted “He (Corbyn) has chaired an event
media. removed from the internationally recognised on Holocaust Memorial Day called
Rachel is herself Jewish and, whilst definition of anti-Semitism. ‘Never Again from Auschwitz to
not religious, was brought up with an Rachel explained in a Channel 4 Gaza’. He has shared platforms with Be blessed as you bless
understanding of her Jewish identity; visiting interview this year that the statement terrorists… who are classified as Israel. Receive this set
Israel in her youth and learning about the offended her as a Jew. She explained her terrorists by the UK, by America, by of three mini-books, an
Holocaust from an early age. understanding of Israel as a safe place for the EU. He’s sharing a platform with exclusive pin badge and
these people, he’s giving a legitimate a personalised certificate
Growing up she never saw or heard any Jews and a place where Jews had the right when you become a
anti-Semitism and was completely oblivious to self determination, a right that all other voice to Holocaust denial.” member with a regular
to the current problems of anti-Semitism in people groups have. She then explained that “Surely you can have compassion monthly donation.
British politics and society in the most recent polling, the and fight for the Palestinian cause
as a whole until she saw on vast majority of British Jews without sharing your bed with
the news the large Jewish identify as Zionist with 90% Holocaust deniers and virulent anti-
demonstration outside “If good supporting the right of Israel to Semites.”
How to become a member
Parliament in March 2018. exist as a Jewish state. When asked why she speaks out
She recalls seeing images people stay Rachel started out her Rachel explained, “If good people
of Jews with placards and
thinking “anti-Semitism in
quiet then all journey to counter anti-
Semitism with a simple tweet.
stay quiet then all you hear is the
extremist voices.”
Call: To become a member over the
phone by credit/debit card,
2018, this is a bit odd”. you hear is In response, she was met She has been threatened,
please call 01793 86 22 10
Looking further into with vile abuse from many taunted, intimidated and belittled,
the situation Rachel the extremist who identified as Corbyn but she is not going to back down.
Asked if she is scared at all, she Write: To become a member by cheque
discovered that the
same anti-Semitic tropes
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Despite being one of the replies that she is aware of the or standing order, please write to
and hate filled language smartest people on television, extremists that are out there, PO Box 3837, SWINDON,
that the Nazis spread to Rachel has been called and whilst she is cautious, she SN3 9DS making cheques
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being spoken today, but only now it had comments about Jews and Zionism, simply explained,“It is a very sad state of
evolved and was being used to demonise because she highlighted an issue. affairs that you have to be brave to Visit: To become a member online,
Israel and Zionism. Now, more than nine-months after her call out anti-Semitism in the UK in
please visit www.cufi.org.uk/
It came to a head for Rachel when she first tweet on anti-Semitism, she has become 2019”.
was on the commute home from work on the a prominent voice speaking out against it membership to give by credit/
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