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2019/2020
MAGAZINE 2019/2020
Featuring:
Message from
the Prime Minister
Celebrating the
@CFoI Conservative Friends of Israel CFI Youtube cfi_uk
UK-Israel Trade Partnership
Israel’s Green Revolution
www.cfoi.co.uk
1 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 2
Do you have a son CONTENTS
or daughter who
needs our help?
02 Introducing CFI The Threat From Iran Tom Tugendhat MBE MP
20
03 Welcome 22 UK-Israel Alliance: A Timeline of Friendship
04 A Message from Prime Minister Boris Johnson 24 In Conversation with Conservative Candidate
for Mayor of London Shaun Bailey AM
06 A Message from H.E. Mark Regev,
Israeli Ambassador to the United Kingdom 26 It’s Time to Recognise the Plight of Jewish Refugees
from the Middle East Rt. Hon. Robert Halfon MP
07 A Message from H.E. Neil Wigan OBE,
British Ambassador to Israel 28 From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: A Travel Guide
08 Boris, Israel and the Jewish Community 30 e Must Build a Holocaust Memorial and
W
Learning Centre that will be a Beacon to
10 In Conversation with the UK’s Ambassador
the World Rt. Hon. The Lord Pickles
to Israel H.E. Neil Wigan OBE
32 Theresa May: A Champion of Israel
12
Celebrating the UK-Israel Trade Partnership
and the Jewish Community
Rt. Hon. Liz Truss MP, Secretary of State
for International Trade 34 Israel’s Green Revolution
14
Welcoming the Government’s Ban on Hezbollah 38 CFI’s Calendar 2018/19
Rt. Hon. Stephen Crabb MP
40 A Taste of Israel in London
16 FI Delegations to Israel Baroness McGregor-Smith
C
CBE, Siobhan Baillie PPC
The Employability Specialists
3 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 1
INTRODUCING WELCOME
Parliamentary Group
Chairman (Commons): Rt. Hon. Stephen Crabb MP Editor: Sedef Akademir, CFI It is a real pleasure to introduce you Lord Polak CBE Andrew Heller James Gurd
CFI Honorary CFI Chairman CFI Executive
Chairman (Lords): Rt. Hon. The Lord Pickles Design: Graphical
to Conservative Friends of IsraeI’s President Director
Vice-Chairmen: John Howell OBE MP www.graphicalagency.co.uk
Andrew Percy MP Print: Cambrian Printers 2019/2020 edition of Informed magazine.
Officers: Lucy Allan MP www.cambrian-printers.co.uk
Baroness Altmann CBE Front Cover Image: PA Images
Bob Blackman MP
Politics has been a rollercoaster ride in recent years While CFI’s delegation programme has been
Maria Caulfield MP
and we haven’t reached the end of the track yet. somewhat curtailed due to the cancellation of
Paul Masterton MP
Matthew Offord MP Conservative Friends of Israel But with Israel having had an unprecedented two
elections in a year, it is clear that the twists and
parliamentary recesses, we are delighted to have
been joined by Conservative Prospective Parliamentary
Mary Robinson MP CFI Ltd, PO Box 72288, London, SW1P 9LB
turns haven’t been confined to the UK. Candidates in Israel. In addition to this next generation
Paul Scully MP T: 020 7262 2493
of Conservative MPs, we have also been joined by a
Craig Tracey MP E: contact@cfoi.co.uk Amidst all the political drama, there is one absolute: number of current MPs and peers. A chance encounter
Rt. Hon. Lord Trimble W: www.cfoi.co.uk in Boris Johnson, Israel and the Jewish community with Israeli-British illusionist Uri Geller on one visit even
have an outstanding friend. Our Prime Minister has been saw the delegation returning to the UK with a spoon
@CFoI a stalwart champion of the Jewish State throughout his he specially bent for the new Prime Minister!
Conservative Friends of Israel life; from his time on a kibbutz as a young man, through
Directors of CFI Ltd CFI Youtube to his memorable visit to Israel as Mayor of London and CFI was delighted to host husting events with both of
Honorary President: Lord Polak CBE cfi_uk central role in the first ever Royal visit to Israel in 2018. the final candidates of the Conservative Party Leadership
Chairman: Andrew Heller We look forward to working with our new Prime Minister Contest. It was great to see so many of our supporters at
Deputy Chairman: Hilda Worth © Conservative Friends of Israel Ltd, and his Government in the months ahead as the flourishing the events and we thought the excellent questions made
Treasurer: Stephen Massey Company no. 8114952 UK-Israel relationship moves into an opportunity-filled them standout occasions. CFI was also pleased to publish
Registered Office: post-Brexit period. It is a relationship that is in very safe letters to our supporters penned by both Boris Johnson
C/O Blick Rothenberg, hands, indeed. and Jeremy Hunt, which highlighted the depth of their
7-10 Chandos Street, London, W1G 9DQ support for Israel.
We would like to take this opportunity to once again
Professional Team thank Theresa May for all that she did in her time as CFI is publishing ‘Israel: A Bitesize Guide’, our first guide
Executive Director: James Gurd Prime Minister to support Israel. Mrs May’s decision to all things Israel – from maps of Israel to its burgeoning
Parliamentary Manager: Elkie Clark to honour her commitment to speak at CFI’s Annual relationships with its Middle East neighbours. We hope
Projects Manager: Natalie Jacobs Business Lunch in December 2018 on a day of high you will find this a helpful resource and an interesting
Communications Officer: Sedef Akademir political drama in Westminster was a testament read. The new publication will be available to read on
Parliamentary Officer: Martha Levy to her integrity. our website.
Israel Liaison: Ellen Steel
Despite Westminster’s understandable focus We would like to thank our talented Professional Team
on Brexit, there have been numerous Israel-related for their fantastic work, along with all of our parliamentary
moments to reflect on over the last year. Foremost, supporters, led by Rt. Hon. Stephen Crabb MP and
Sajid Javid’s landmark proscription of the Hezbollah Rt. Hon. The Lord Pickles.
terror group, which was welcomed by dozens of
Conservative parliamentarians in the Houses of If you would like further information about any of CFI’s
Parliament. Israel becoming one of the first countries activities, please visit our website (www.cfoi.co.uk) and
in the world that the UK agreed an in-principle follow us on our popular social media pages - Twitter,
post-Brexit free trade deal with. CFI’s then-Vice Chair Facebook, Instagram, YouTube – for the latest news.
Rt. Hon. Theresa Villiers MP leading the first ever
parliamentary debate about Jewish refugees in the Enjoy this latest edition of Informed and we hope we
Middle East and North Africa. And who can forget the can count on your continued support for the year ahead.
powerful photographs of Sajid Javid praying at the
Western Wall in Jerusalem as Home Secretary?
2 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020
2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 3
Dear Friends,
I am delighted to send my support and thanks to everyone in Conservative Friends of Israel for all
that you are doing for the Conservative Party, and for British-Israeli relations.
I am proud to be a friend of Israel, and I am proud too of the United Kingdom’s close relationship
with Israel and the many ties we share. I have always admired the courage, determination and
robustness of the Israeli state – the only true democracy in the region. That is why, as Mayor of
London, I confronted the hateful rhetoric from some of my competitors and refused to bend to calls
for a boycott of Israeli goods. It is why one of my proudest moments as Foreign Secretary was
facilitating the first ever official visit to Israel by a member of the Royal Family.
And it is why, as Prime Minister, I will always support Israel’s right to self-defence and I will work to
counter Iran’s destabilising activity in the region. I am determined that the UK-Israel partnership
should grow even stronger, including by stepping up our trading ties. Brexit gives us the opportunity
to do just that – to strike a comprehensive free trade deal with Israel, renew our friendships with
our allies around the world, and to become an even more outward looking nation.
As we strengthen our bilateral links with Israel, we must also continue to show our support for the
Wealth management that
Jewish community here at home. At a time when the once-proud Labour Party has succumbed to
extremism and hate, the Conservative Party must stand firm in solidarity with British Jews so that,
together, we can defeat the scourge of antisemitism. The Government I lead will not hesitate to
take action to confront racism – and that is why we will continue to fund efforts to combat
antisemitism on university campuses, to protect synagogues, and to support the construction of a
National Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre next to the Houses of Parliament.
revolves around you
CFI has a crucial role to play as a valued link between the Conservative Party and Israel. Your
parliamentary delegations are absolutely vital in allowing Conservative MPs, Peers and candidates We are pleased to support the CFI Annual Business Lunch 2019
to see for themselves what a special place Israel is, and to learn more about its vibrant culture and
burgeoning business community. And I know that your campaigning support for our MPs and Our service is based on a unique relationship between you and your
candidates in marginal constituencies will prove to be of great value when the next general election dedicated Wealth Manager, using their expertise to help you achieve
comes. the future you want.
Thank you again for all your fantastic work. CFI is a key part of our Conservative family and you will Investment involves risk.
always have my support and gratitude.
Visit canaccordgenuity.com
or call us on +44 20 7523 4500
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management (CGWM) is the trading name of Canaccord Genuity Financial Planning Limited (CGFPL),
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and Canaccord Genuity Wealth International Limited (CGWIL). They are all wholly owned subsidiaries of Canaccord Genuity
4 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 Group Inc. For more information visit canaccordgenuity.com/wealth-management-uk. @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 5
A220
The Ambassador’s Office לשכת השגריר
Embassy of Israel שגרירות ישראל
The Ambassador’s Office לשכת השגריר
London לונדון
Embassy of Israel שגרירות ישראל
London לונדון Neil Wigan OBE
Message from HE Mark Regev, Ambassador of Israel to the Court of St James’s HM Ambassador
192 HaYarkon
Message from HE Mark Regev, Ambassador of Israel to the Court of St James’s Tel Aviv 6340502
Conservative Party Conference falls on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and as we celebrate, I am
Tel: (972) (0)3 725 1248
delighted to report to you that the Israel-UK partnership is stronger than ever.
Conservative Party Conference falls on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and as we celebrate, I am Fax: (972) (0)3 725 1203
http://ukinisrael.fco.gov.uk
delighted to report to you that the Israel-UK partnership is stronger than ever. www.fco.gov.uk
I am deeply proud that Israel was the first country to finalise a post-Brexit trade deal with the UK. With
16 September 2019
that
I am accord now signed
deeply proud andwas
that Israel sealed, together
the first with
country three new
to finalise agreements
a post-Brexit in deal
trade taxation, research
with the and
UK. With
innovation, I am confident our trade will continue to grow beyond the record £8.6bn we set in 2018. This
that accord now signed and sealed, together with three new agreements in taxation, research and
means more jobs and prosperity for both our countries.
innovation, I am confident our trade will continue to grow beyond the record £8.6bn we set in 2018. This Dear Friends
means more jobs and prosperity for both our countries.
As Conservative Friends of Israel, you know better than most that we share a vital security relationship, Israel was my first posting as a diplomat and I am thrilled to be back, and see how much has changed. My first
which is actively saving lives. Earlier this year we welcomed Britain’s Chief of Defence Staff to Israel, and three months have been busy and fascinating.
As Conservative Friends of Israel, you know better than most that we share a vital security relationship,
the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and British Army are working closer with the IDF than ever before. We Since arriving, I have been travelling around Israel, from the Lebanon and Syrian borders and Golan Heights, Haifa
which is actively saving lives. Earlier this year we welcomed Britain’s Chief of Defence Staff to Israel, and
hosted the first Israel-UK Veteran Games, where 150 British veterans and their families met their Israeli to Be’er Sheva, from the Weizmann Science Institute to the British‐Israeli Community, to get to know Israel
the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and British Army are working closer with the IDF than ever before. We
counterparts to Israel-UK
compete and, alongside leading again, see first‐hand what has changed and how things have developed. Israel is different in many ways from a
hosted the first Veteran Games, whereservice charities
150 British and post-combat
veterans medical
and their families met professionals,
their Israeli decade and a half ago.
discuss ways our countries can better support those who have served.
counterparts to compete and, alongside leading service charities and post-combat medical professionals,
Our bilateral trade is better than ever – over $10bln a year and growing fast. There is growing appetite in both
discuss ways our countries can better support those who have served.
Unfortunately, the security challenges we face have not disappeared. Iran threatens not just Western the British business sector and the Israeli to reach out and collaborate. I have witnessed first‐hand how strong
and prosperous UK‐Israel relations have become.
interests, but the
Unfortunately, theWest itself.challenges
security The Islamicwe Republic
face haveisnot
building long-range
disappeared. Iranmissiles capable
threatens of reaching
not just Western
Europe, and was recently exposed for orchestrating terror plots in Denmark, France, Germany, and even I have seen the sparks of British‐Israeli research collaborations in my visits to Israel’s universities, including our
interests, but the West itself. The Islamic Republic is building long-range missiles capable of reaching
Britain. It is imperative we robustly confront the very real threat of a nuclear Iran, just as we must continue successful BIRAX joint research programme. We have British giants such as, IAG and the NHS seeking tech‐
Europe, and was recently exposed for orchestrating terror plots in Denmark, France, Germany, and even collaborations in Israel through our UK‐Israel Tech Hub, and some digital health and mobility partnerships
to stand against the Islamic Republic’s belligerency and aggression. That is why the UK’s decision earlier
Britain. It is imperative we robustly confront the very real threat of a nuclear Iran, just as we must continue between British corporates and Israeli start‐ups are now taking shape.
this year against
to stand to fully the
proscribe
IslamicTehran’s
Republic’sterrorist proxy Hezbollah
belligerency was both
and aggression. Thatnecessary andUK’s
is why the right.decision earlier
I visited Energean’s gas rig near Haifa, a massive UK‐Israel collaboration that gives Israel energy security, reduces
this year to fully proscribe Tehran’s terrorist proxy Hezbollah was both necessary and right. pollution and boosts the local economy, and met with companies ready to take their business to the UK in order
Britain has a new team at the top. In Prime Minister Johnson, Israel is fortunate to have a friend who as
to reach the global market.
both Mayor of London and Foreign Secretary championed the important partnership between our two
Britain has a new team at the top. In Prime Minister Johnson, Israel is fortunate to have a friend who as
democracies. HeLondon
is undoubtedly a friend of the Jewish people and I have visited Israel’s borders as well, to get a grasp of its complexity and see how we can further collaborate to
both Mayor of and Foreign Secretary championed the the Jewish state,
important and under
partnership his leadership,
between our two
make sure Israel is safe within its borders. Our countries keep working closely together on security and defence,
I am confident that Israel-UK relations will continue to go from strength-to-strength.
democracies. He is undoubtedly a friend of the Jewish people and the Jewish state, and under his leadership, tackling regional challenges that we both face. We just had a RAF Typhoon aircraft landing in Ramat David base –
I am confident that Israel-UK relations will continue to go from strength-to-strength. the first British fighter plane since independence. We have also joined hands over cyber, bringing together the
Of course, the bond between Israel and Britain would not be what it is today without CFI, and I am efforts of two international leaders in this field.
grateful to Lord
Of course, Polak,between
the bond Lord Pickles,
Israel and
andStephen Crabb MP,
Britain would not bewhowhat
withitJames Gurd
is today and allCFI,
without the team
and Ihave
am The Embassy and I value our collaboration, and I enjoyed hosting a CFI delegation at the Residence – the first of
brought our countries even closer. Thank you, and I wish you and your families a Shanah Tovah.
grateful to Lord Polak, Lord Pickles, and Stephen Crabb MP, who with James Gurd and all the team have many, I hope. I am aware of the work CFI has been doing over the years; I look forward to future activities with
brought our countries even closer. Thank you, and I wish you and your families a Shanah Tovah. CFI and other parliamentarians and see how the bilateral relationship continues to benefit from those
connections.
Mark Regev
Ambassador of Israel to the Court of St James’s
Mark Regev
Ambassador of Israel to the Court of St James’s
2 Palace Green, London, W8 4QB
2 Palace Green, London, W8 4QB
6 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 7
FRIEND OF ISRAEL AND JEWISH COMMUNITY
Boris Johnson has a long history of Boris Johnson played an instrumental
standing shoulder to shoulder with role as Foreign Secretary in marking
Israel and the Jewish community. the centenary of the Balfour
He volunteered at a kibbutz as a Declaration in November 2017.
student in the 1980s, and visited At an event to mark the occasion,
Israel with CFI in 2004. he hailed the “miracle of Israel”
and stated that the creation of
As Mayor of London in 2015, Boris the country is “one of the greatest
Johnson led the first ever London- political triumphs of the 20th
Israel trade mission. He said: “I’m Century”. He emphasised in a
proud that the UK is now Israel’s parliamentary statement on the
biggest trading partner in Europe and centenary: “We should celebrate
Boris Johnson addresses CFI
we saw huge investments both ways, the existence of the State of IsraeI”.
Conference Reception 2016
partly actually as a result of that trip”.
Boris Johnson told supporters at
As Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson CFI’s Conservative Party Conference Mr Johnson pledged in June 2019
delivered the official invitation to Reception in 2016 while he was to be a “champion for Jews in
HRH The Duke of Cambridge to visit Foreign Secretary, that “Britain Britain and around the world”.
Israel, the landmark first ever official and Israel are both countries where
BORIS, ISRAEL
visit by a member of the Royal our dreams are still bigger than Prime Minister Johnson welcomed
Family. Mr Johnson said in June their achievements” and declared Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin
2019: “It was a true pleasure for me that “our best days are ahead”. Netanyahu to 10 Downing Street
to be able to organise the official He added: “We must stand and in September 2019, in one of his
visit, one which I believe without work together; Britain, Israel and first visits by a foreign head of
Ariel Schalit/AP/Shutterstock
AND THE JEWISH
my office would have been different Conservative Friends of Israel can Government. The two leaders
or potentially not undertaken at all”. build thosedreams together”. reaffirmed the deep friendship
between the UK and Israel.
COMMUNITY SUPPORTING
ISRAEL’S RIGHT
TO SELF-DEFENCE
OPPOSITION TO
BOYCOTT, DIVESTMENT
AND SANCTIONS
COMBATING
ANTISEMITISM
In July 2019, CFI were delighted to welcome self-declared Boris Johnson has been a staunch
supporter of Israel’s right to defend
In June 2019 at a CFI leadership
husting event, Mr Johnson expressed
Prime Minister Johnson has
reaffirmed his support for the UK
“passionate Zionist” and long-standing friend of Israel, itself throughout his political life.
He underlined in a June 2019 letter
his “profound” opposition to the
“absolutely absurd” Boycott,
Holocaust Memorial and Learning
Centre next to Parliament, stating
Boris Johnson, as the UK’s new Prime Minister. It marks to CFI supporters: “I firmly believe,
like every nation, that Israel has the
Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
movement against Israel, which
that he regards the construction
as “a shared national responsibility”.
an exciting new chapter in the UK-Israel relationship, fundamental right to self-defence,
and I am greatly disheartened and
“disadvantage the very people
that the proponents of BDS He has promised to safeguard the
upset over the constant illegal and purport to want to help”. Government’s pledge of £140,000 to
and CFI looks forward to working with Prime Minister deadly rocket attacks which are combat antisemitism on university
launched daily by Hamas terrorists”. Mr Johnson wrote in a letter to CFI campuses, which will enable students
Johnson and his Government to continue strengthening As Foreign Secretary in October
supporters in June 2019: “As Mayor
of London I refused to bend to calls
and university leaders from across
the UK to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau.
the deep UK-Israel partnership. 2017, Boris Johnson emphasised
that the Hamas terror group
for boycotts on Israeli goods and
I want to assure you that I will
In September 2019, Boris Johnson’s
Government announced £100,000
must “renounce terror”, recognise continue to refuse to bend to the funding to tackle the spread of
Israel’s right to exist and “cease whims of racists or antisemites. antisemitism on social media.
and desist from violent antisemitic We must trade more with Israel and,
propaganda”. under my administration, we will!”
8 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 9
– the UK is a prime partner for
Israel and is eager to collaborate
and deepen our links, highlight
both our countries’ strengths.
I want the Embassy Tech Hub,
Science officers and Trade
Team working closely together
to maximise the opportunities.
What in your eyes are Israel’s
greatest strengths?
I think one of Israel’s greatest
strengths is its variety – nowhere
on earth has so much politics,
history, culture and religion in
such a small space. And ingenuity,
which leads to great innovation
and entrepreneurship. Israelis
are developing technologies
at an impressive rate that
Embassy of Israel
the UK can benefit from. Ambassador Wigan with CFI parliamentary delegation in July 2019
In what areas would you like to
see more cooperation between How do Israelis view the UK? or listing in London. Prime Minister
IN CONVERSATION WITH
Israel and the UK? Netanyahu told me he wants an
Even more positively than even closer relationship after Brexit.
I’d like to dive further into I remember. Israelis love visiting
collaborating with specific sectors the UK, whether for higher
THE UK’S AMBASSADOR
What do you think are the biggest
in Israel. We are already powering education, business or tourism. similarities and differences
the Arabtech Port aimed for I’ve already swapped tips on walking between the UK and Israel?
entrepreneurs in the Israeli Arab the West Highland Way, discovered
TO ISRAEL,
community. We are working with that an Israeli company owns the Israelis like to ‘move fast and break
Bizmax, an accelerator for Haredi biggest phosphate mine in Britain, things’ – particularly in technology
entrepreneurs. I met seven of them and heard University Presidents say and business (and sometimes when
H.E. NEIL WIGAN OBE
headed to London to present their they want the same cooperation driving). British institutions can feel
start-ups to the UK tech scene. with UK counterparts as they do a lot more deliberate. Israelis are still
Security cooperation is developing in the U.S. British brands from as famously to the point and direct
rapidly – I watched an RAF fighter Superdry to Jo Malone are popular. as ever - British understatement
jet land at an Israel Air Force base I judged some amazing Harry Potter does not work. The key similarities
H
for the first time since Israel’s costumes, and Israelis still rave to me are shared democratic values, and
.E. Neil Wigan OBE How are you finding your time How will you promote the independence. about Prince William’s visit last year. an excitement about the power
became the UK’s in Israel and your role so far? UK-Israel relationship? of technology to change lives.
Ambassador to Israel How do you think Britons view What do you think the future holds
in June 2019, after Israel was my first posting as We have record levels of bilateral Israel’s relationship with the UK? for UK-Israel relations post-Brexit?
previously serving as the a diplomat 15 years ago, and I cooperation in trade, investment,
I think British people increasingly The UK and Israel have already
Director for Africa at the Foreign &
Commonwealth Office (FCO).
am thrilled to be back. A lot has
changed and got much bigger
science and technology – and we
want to reach even higher. Israelis see Israel in terms of technology, signed a trade continuity agreement
“We have record
– from the tech industry, to the know how much the UK values innovation and culture – from food
to LGBT rights. And perhaps less
which simplifies trade and allows
businesses to trade as freely as they
levels of bilateral
CFI Informed Editor, Sedef Akademir, culinary scene, to the Pride Parade. our partnership and is eager to
sat down with Ambassador Wigan In the past three months I have work together. We have the best in terms of politics and media do now after Brexit, so everything is cooperation in trade,
been travelling around Israel, from universities in the world and we want images of conflict. Over 250,000 set in place for a smooth transition.
to hear about his experience
in Israel so far, and his views the Gaza periphery to the Lebanon to collaborate with Israel on research. British visitors come to Israel Israel was one of the first countries investment, science
on the UK-Israel relationship. border, reaching out to different
communities, getting a taste of the
Israeli and British high-tech are
natural partners. We welcome Israeli
every year, so more people
see Israel for themselves.
to agree a deal, showing the appetite
on both sides. Since the referendum,
and technology
tech scene, and visiting universities businesses and want to help them bilateral trade has increased rapidly – and we want to
and research centres. All areas we invest in the UK or to cooperate to over $10 billion, and more Israeli
are already working together on with a British company. This is companies are investing in the UK, reach even higher”.
and can do even more together on. the message I wish to get across
10 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 11
London Stock Exchange Group
Rt. Hon. Liz Truss MP
Secretary of State for International Trade
O
f the many opportunities entrepreneurs who were invigorated
that Brexit will afford by the opportunities of increased
the United Kingdom, collaboration between our two
perhaps the most countries, and shared my optimism.
exciting is our ability
to forge new free trade deals Israel and the UK are natural trading
with some of the world’s most partners. Brexit provides a distinctly
future-looking economies. It is unique chance for even greater
for this very reason that I was so cooperation between our two
delighted that earlier in 2019, Israel countries, and there is exceptional
was one of the first countries to
agree a free trade agreement in
principle with the UK, ensuring
scope for growth in bilateral trade
and investment. There is huge
potential in areas such as science
$10bn
seamless continuity in existing and technology where we are both Total bilateral trade
trade and allowing businesses world leaders. Indeed, I’ve heard between the UK
to avoid any additional tariffs or all about some of the exciting new
barriers. It is a clear testament to tech companies coming out of Israel
& Israel in 2018
the strength of our relationship. that my Conservative colleagues and Israel, we signed a multimillion
CELEBRATING
met with on last year’s CFI trade pound deal with the Israeli Innovation
Our bilateral trade is now at a delegation to Israel. Authority to support cutting edge
record high of $10 billion a year, ideas in fields including artificial
and we have unprecedented Our two nations can continue intelligence, as well as a new
levels of cooperation in investment, to learn a lot from each other. £5 million fund, BIRAX Ageing, for
THE UK-ISRAEL
science and technology. This has I’ve said it before and I’ll say it collaboration with the ageing process
the potential to reach even greater again; Britain’s younger generation and its effect on human health.
heights following Brexit. are Uber-riding, Airbnb-ing,
Deliveroo-eating freedom fighters, The UK Israel Tech Hub, which was
Despite the doom and gloom and I’m all for that. Much of this set up in 2011 by the British Embassy
TRADE
pedalled by some, in the year after pioneering spirit is seen in Israel, in Israel and was the first of its kind
Britain voted to leave the EU, Israeli a small outward-looking country in the world, promotes partnerships
investment into the UK increased. 32 where innovation and liberty is in technology between the UK and
Israeli companies entered the British championed, recognised around Israel. Last year, the hub celebrated
market, investing £152 million into our the world as the ‘Start-Up Nation’. the facilitation of some 175 tech
PARTNERSHIP
economy and creating 888 new jobs partnerships. The partnership has
– a rise of 33% on the previous year. I have long admired Israel’s been so successful that it has helped
With such strong continued growth high-tech solutions to some of the to boost the UK economy by up to
it’s perhaps little surprise that Britain world’s most pressing problems, £800 million since launching, and
is now Israel’s largest trading partner and science and innovation are at the model is now being replicated
in Europe. the heart of our Government’s for five new international hubs.
On all counts, business between the
strategy for promoting prosperity
At the start of 2019, I had the pleasure and growth. Both of our nations There is still much more to do and
of attending the Jewish Women’s understand the importance of we should never dim our ambitions.
UK and Israel is booming and there Business Network’s conference at building an innovation-driven I look forward to visiting Israel in
the London Stock Exchange (LSE), economy. Last year, in order to the near future to see the ‘Start-Up
where we celebrated the contribution boost academic and scientific Nation’ for myself and explore more
is much to celebrate. of Jewish women to the global
economy. I spoke to many Israeli
collaboration between the UK opportunities to ensure that our
partnership continues to flourish.
12 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 13
Rt. Hon. Stephen Crabb MP
CFI Parliamentary Chairman (Commons)
I
n February 2019, after years of Hezbollah, which is backed by
campaigning by parliamentarians, Iran, is continuing in its attempts
I was delighted that a Conservative to destabilise the fragile situation
government proscribed the terror in the Middle East, and repeatedly
group Hezbollah in its entirety in threatens to wipe Israel off the
the UK, a bold decision taken by our map. But its terrorism is not merely
Home Secretary at the time, Rt. Hon. confined to the region; the group
Sajid Javid MP. has staged several fatal and
calamitous attacks around the
In taking this decision, Sajid and world and has a global network
our Conservative Government of nefarious criminal activity.
reaffirmed its zero tolerance stance
against terrorism, and showed that It was even planning to wreak
it listened to the wishes of the devastation in London. The
British public. A 2018 ComRes poll Telegraph revealed in June 2019
found that Britons were four times that Iran and Hezbollah-linked
more likely to support a full ban on alleged terrorists were caught
Hezbollah than to oppose it. stockpiling tonnes of explosive
materials in North West London
It was unfortunately, however, at a secret bomb factory in 2015.
Rt. Hon. Stephen Crabb MP
the first time ever that the main The plot was uncovered by MI5 and
raises concerns about Hezbollah
opposition party refused to the Metropolitan Police just months
in Parliament
support the banning of a after the UK signed the Iran nuclear
terrorist organisation. deal alongside P5+1 world powers.
France. In Bulgaria in 2012, five Israeli
tourists and a Bulgarian driver were
Gabriele Pedrini / Shutterstock.com
Since that decision, we have An astonishing three metric tonnes
killed when a Hezbollah bomb went
seen immediate results. While of ammonium nitrate was discovered
off on a bus in the city of Burgas’s
demonstrators still freely took at the London properties – more
airport.
part in the annual Al Quds Day than was used in the Oklahoma City
anti-Israel hate rally in London, bombing that killed 168 people. The
The proscription of Hezbollah ended
scale of carnage that could have been
WELCOMING THE
the usual display of yellow AK-47
a long-standing absurd distinction
emblazoned flags was not seen. wrought in our capital is unimaginable.
between so-called ‘political’ and
It was later reported that Israeli ‘military’ wings, when in reality
Previously, only Hezbollah’s so-called
they are inseparable.
GOVERNMENT’S BAN ON
‘military wing’ was banned in the intelligence was responsible for
UK, allowing protesters to wave providing British authorities with
Surprisingly, Hamas, which runs
the Hezbollah flag as long as the information that helped foil the
Gaza and threatens the existence
HEZBOLLAH
flags featured a small ‘disclaimer’ London plot, underlining how vital
of Israel on a daily basis has still
that they were only supporting our cooperation in counterterrorism
yet to be fully proscribed as a terror
Hezbollah’s ‘political wing’. Thanks is in keeping our countries, and the
organisation in our country, with
to our Government, and vigorous world, safe.
its ‘political wing’ and ‘military wing’
campaigning by parliamentarians
There have been a number of similarly separated. Its charter, which
and members of the public, it is
similar Hezbollah and Iran-linked calls for Israel’s destruction, is used
now a criminal offence to display
terror incidents and plots across by the whole organisation. Now is
support for Hezbollah.
Europe in recent years, including in the time to revisit this.
Cyprus, the Netherlands and
14 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 15
CFI Baroness McGregor-Smith CBE
Chair of the Office for Tackling Injustices
DELEGATIONS
TO ISRAEL I
n the summer of 2019 I had the
great pleasure of visiting Israel
and the West Bank for the first time
with a delegation of Conservative
parliamentarians and candidates,
which was coordinated by CFI.
It was my first time in the country
and I was overwhelmed by the
vibrancy of the place, the warmth of
the people and the mix of cultures.
We saw for ourselves how different
the reality is to the newspaper
headlines. It was a real eye-opener
to speak to people from all sections
of Israeli society – from academics,
journalists and politicians, to ordinary CFI delegation visits Magen David Adom
citizens. Hearing their perspective
on the issues on the ground made
us think deeply about the realities I loved visiting Save A Child’s Heart among Palestinians. It’s clear
of living there and the challenges in Holon, just outside of Tel Aviv, that progress towards a lasting
facing the region. and seeing the amazing work that peace is needed more than
Israeli surgeons do in saving the lives ever, with younger generations
At the same time, I got a real sense of children from all corners of the seemingly becoming more cynical
of enthusiasm from the people that world. The children, who come from about a workable solution to the
I met and their optimism for their some of the world’s most deprived Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
country. After all, this is a nation communities, receive free life-saving
that from its inception defied heart surgery in Israel. I found out I will never forget my visit to
View to Jerusalem Old City. Israel. SJ Travel Photo and Video, Shutterstock.
geographical odds and prospered that half of the 5,000 children that Yad Vashem. As a member of
to become a beacon in the region. have been treated so far were from the Prime Minister’s Holocaust
the West Bank and Gaza, and that Commission, it was a deep honour
One of the highlights of our visit the medical professionals share to visit and to lay a wreath in the
was an unexpected meeting with their expertise with doctors visiting Hall of Remembrance on behalf
the legendary illusionist Uri Geller, from the Palestinian Territories and of the group, commemorating
who gifted us a spoon he had elsewhere around the world. the victims of the Holocaust.
bent and signed for Prime Minister It was an incredibly moving
Boris Johnson! We also travelled to Ramallah in experience. I understand all the
the West Bank, where we met with more the importance of the founding
It was at a visit to Israel’s ambulance Palestine Liberation Organisation of the Israeli state in providing a
service Magen David Adom that (PLO) Chief Negotiator Saeb Erekat refuge for thousands of Holocaust
we got a chance to see the country’s for a wide-ranging discussion on victims and as a Jewish homeland.
use of cutting edge technology in local and regional issues affecting
order to save lives by shortening the Palestinian population. In every way, the visit was illuminating
response times to medical Separately, it was fascinating to hear and I would like to thank CFI for
emergencies. It would be fantastic from Palestinian polling expert Dr the opportunity. I would certainly
to bring some of this innovation Khalil Shikaki who informed us about recommend others to go and see this
in emergency care to the NHS. the latest public opinion trends extraordinary country for themselves.
16 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020
2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 17Siobhan Baillie
Conservative Prospective Parliamentary
Candidate for Stroud
F
rom the moment I arrived in
Israel with a group of fellow
Conservative Parliamentary
Candidates in July 2019,
I was blown away by the
innovation, determination and
strength of this tiny country.
The CFI itinerary was packed
with dynamic speakers; journalists,
politicians and academics from all
sides and none.
Yet for me, the legendary Israeli C
‘chutzpah’ was displayed most M
brightly in the women we met.
Siobhan Baillie PPC lays wreath at Yad Vashem Y
We were joined by the formidable CM
former IDF spokesperson Miri Eisin who told the group that no child that Holocaust remembrance remains MY
on our visit to Israeli communities on would be turned away. I am now a key part of the Conservative Party’s
the border with Gaza. She delivered dedicated to ensuring that religion, legacy to this country. CY
a masterclass in the regional borders and conflict will not get CMY
challenges Israel faces, and brought in her way. At the end of the delegation,
K
to life the daily conflicting options the group took it in turns to
available to the small nation. The trip went on like this. Tech reflect on the unforgettable week.
leaders, scientists, politicians, After talking about our time in
A female resident of Kfar Aza, diplomats, factory workers, teachers, Yad Vashem, it did not take me
a kibbutz just three miles east of mothers – these women made me long to decide what else to say.
Gaza, pointed out Gaza City in the want to stand up straighter. Their
distance. As she showed us where energy and determination was truly
the last flaming kite from Gaza had inspirational.
exploded on their football pitch,
she waved to her grandchildren Our trip to Yad Vashem in particular
living nearby and told us about will stay with me forever.
the high-tech start-up that she
has set up with a friend, developing The building is of course impressive
drones to intercept these incendiary on its own, but our knowledgeable
objects. It’s no wonder I nicknamed (female!) guide amplified the carefully
her Supergran! curated information about individuals
and families that perished in the
Returning to Tel Aviv, we visited Holocaust. Their stories are a constant
the children’s home at Save A Child’s reminder that such appalling crimes
Heart, an Israeli charity providing must never happen again.
life-saving heart surgery to children
from the developing world, the I was overwhelmed to lay a wreath on
West Bank and Gaza. The children’s behalf of the group to commemorate
home is run by an incredible the victims of the Holocaust, an
CFI delegation in Jerusalem
Northern Irish-born woman, honour that will drive me to ensure
18 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 19THE THREAT
FROM IRAN
Tom Tugendhat MBE MP WITH BEST WISHES
Chairman of the Foreign
Affairs Select Committee FROM BDO
For general enquiries or advice on how we can help you grow your business,
please call 0870 567 5678 or visit our website www.bdo.co.uk
B
y the time you read IRGC bases in Syria and Iraq – recently That is why the Foreign Affairs
this, Iran may have finally thwarting an imminent drone attack Committee has launched an enquiry
released the Stena Impero, from a base outside Damascus into the UK and Iran’s regional
the British-flagged oil – Israel has acted in self-defence. role. As well as investigating our
tanker it seized in the As the pressure created by American relationship with the country,
Strait of Hormuz in July 2019. sanctions increases, Iran’s willingness we shall be asking ministers and
But, even if this incident has been to hit out at U.S. allies, in the hope of officials searching questions about
resolved, it shows that nothing causing Western disunity, may grow. the policies they have to stop Iran
much has changed. destabilising the region and how
Iran has a forty-year-long history the Foreign Office will approach
Since the revolution of 1979, of financing and supporting a renewed multilateral effort to
hostage-taking has been a key terrorism overseas. Israeli citizens curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
element of Iranian foreign policy. and diplomats have most often
Our response to the latest been its targets, but they are not Perhaps most importantly, we
imprisonment, along with the recent alone. The recent revelation that need to stand up for human rights
arrest of a retired businessman, in 2015 our own security services in the country which is crying out
a British Council employee and, broke up a plot by Hezbollah to for freedom. The UK needs to be,
of course, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe stockpile bomb-making chemicals once again, a friend of the Iranian
on trumped-up spying charges, in London gives us a flavour of people, and that means standing
shows that successive British Iranian ambitions. up to the regime.
governments have had no answer to
a cruel policy of using dual nationals It was good to see Sajid Javid, when
as leverage. We simply have not Home Secretary in February 2019,
learned how to respond to Tehran. abandon the artificial distinction
we made between the political
We could learn much from and military wings of Iran’s proxy
Israel, which labours under no militia in Lebanon, and proscribe
such illusions. One of the Iranian Hezbollah in its entirety. But the
Revolutionary Guard’s (IRGC) British Government lacks a more
explicit goals is the destruction comprehensive policy to contain
of Israel. The westward expansion Iran’s ambitions.
The Stena Impero British-flagged
of its influence following, first, the
oil tanker, seized by Iran
2003 invasion of Iraq, and, second,
the outbreak of civil war in Syria in
2011, means that the threat posed
by the IRGC has never been greater. “The UK needs to be, once again,
The IRGC’s support for Assad’s regime
in Syria makes it completely clear that
a friend of the Iranian people, and
it will stop at nothing – even the mass
murder of fellow Muslims – to advance
that means standing up to the regime”.
its fundamental aim. In attacking
BDO LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial
20 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 Conduct
INFORMED Authority to conduct
MAGAZINE investment business.
2018/2019 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 21UK-ISRAEL ALLIANCE:
A TIMELINE OF 1948 1950 1956
1917
FRIENDSHIP The objective of establishing
a modern Jewish state in
The British Mandate ends
and the State of Israel
The UK formally
recognises the
Conservative Foreign
Secretary Sir Harold
Israel gained strong international is declared State of Israel Nutting becomes the first
As we welcomed Boris Johnson as Prime Minister support with the Balfour Declaration,
issued by Conservative Foreign
British politician to visit
the newly-formed State
in July 2019, a new chapter in the UK-Israel
1921
Secretary Lord Balfour of Israel
partnership was opened. Here we look back at the
friendship between the two countries over the years. Winston Churchill visits
Jerusalem as Secretary
of State for the Colonies.
In a speech at Hebrew
University, he said the founding
of a Jewish state would be
“a blessing to the whole world”
1975
UK votes against infamous
motion in the UN that
1996 1986 1979 1973 1961
“Zionism is racism”
Prime Minister John Major meets Margaret Thatcher becomes the Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher Prime Minister Edward Heath David Ben-Gurion and Winston
with Israeli Prime Minister Shimon first British Prime Minister to visit welcomes Israel’s Prime Minister welcomes Israel’s Prime Minister Churchill meet in London. Churchill was a
Peres. This came just four years Israel while in office, meeting Menachem Begin to 10 Downing Street. Golda Meir to Number 10. Golda staunch friend of Israel throughout his life
after Major welcomed Peres to Israel’s Prime Minister Shimon Peres Begin was one of the first foreign Meir was Israel’s first and the and referred to himself as “a Zionist from
Downing Street, in Peres’ previous while there. Thatcher was a deep leaders to be welcomed to Number 10 world’s fourth female leader the days of the Balfour Declaration”
role as Foreign Minister admirer of Israel’s “pioneer spirit” after Thatcher’s election victory
2008 2011 2019
The Britain Israel Research and UK Israel Tech Hub was launched “Passionate Zionist”
Academic Exchange Partnership by the British Embassy in Israel Boris Johnson becomes
(BIRAX) was launched to fund and was the first of its kind in the Britain’s new Prime
cutting edge research using world to promote partnerships Minister, pledges to
stem cell research and in technology and innovation support Israel and the
2014 2017 2018 2019
regenerative medicine between two countries Jewish community
David Cameron addresses Theresa May invites Israel’s HRH The Duke of Cambridge, Then-Home Secretary
Israel’s Knesset in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Prince William, becomes the Sajid Javid makes
in his landmark visit to Israel Netanyahu to London, where the first ever member of the historic visit to
as Prime Minister UK and Israel celebrate centenary Royal Family to make an Jerusalem’s Western Wall
of the Balfour Declaration official visit to Israel
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons, Getty Images, Alamy
22 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 23everyday – from the Waze navigation
app to Gett black cab app, and
NHS prescription drugs to online
banking security. These strengths
show up all the more how ludicrous
and counterproductive the Boycott,
Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
campaign against Israel is, and as
Mayor I will oppose such divisive
stances every step of the way.
In May 2019, you joined March
of the Living in Poland for a
week-long visit to learn about the
Holocaust and to commemorate
Yom HaShoah. How did you find
the experience?
Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau
on March of the Living, marching
alongside more than 10,000
participants from all corners of the
world in memory of all Holocaust
victims brought to life the real
IN CONVERSATION WITH
barbarity of this tragedy in a way
that no textbook ever could. It was
incredibly moving to march together Shaun Bailey places memorial note at March of the Living
with Holocaust survivors, and outside Auschwitz-Birkenau
CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE
reminded me that we cannot remain
silent about horrors being committed If you become Mayor of London, As Mayor of London I would also
anywhere around the world. how will you support the Jewish continue the wonderful Chanukah in
FOR MAYOR OF LONDON,
community? the Square, and I’m looking forward
As Mayor of London, how will to receiving an invitation to a Purim
you stamp out antisemitism? The Jewish community is a vital party!
part of the fabric of London, and
SHAUN BAILEY AM
That British Jews should be the whole of the United Kingdom. What are your main plans for London?
experiencing antisemitism is The community makes an enormous
abhorrent. Antisemitism has no place contribution across all levels of London is a city that has historically
in our society, and needs to be called London society – from business looked towards the future with
out for what it is – racism in its basest
S
and science to the arts and a thriving confidence, but in many key areas
haun Bailey AM is the Where does your support eye-opener. I couldn’t help form. I vow to stand shoulder to charity sector. From protecting our capital has regressed, foremost
Conservative candidate for Israel come from? but be struck by its vibrancy, shoulder with the Jewish community Jewish institutions across the of which has been the rise in violent
taking on Sadiq Khan in its energy, and its extraordinary in our shared fight against this most city to preserving Jewish traditions crime. I will prioritise tackling this
2020’s London Mayoral I’ve been a staunch friend of achievements in a mere 70 years pernicious of evils. To defeat evil, I like shechita and brit milah, as your crime epidemic so we can walk the
Election. Shaun, a former Israel for as long as I can remember. since its foundation. It’s all the believe it is vital that we remember Conservative Mayoral candidate streets safely. Housing is fundamental.
adviser to David Cameron and a To me, Israel is a beacon of light. more incredible when one the past and the roots of this disease. I promise that I would speak up We must build homes that ordinary
current London Assembly Member, How can you not admire a country considers that the Jewish State That’s why I stand squarely in support for you every day. I will make Londoners can actually afford to buy
has been a long-time friend of Israel. that prides itself in innovation, has a population the same size of a National Holocaust Memorial it my personal mission to fight – so owning a home is a possibility for
entrepreneurialism, democracy as London’s! and Learning Centre in our capital antisemitism on our university everyone. I plan to increase investment
CFI sat down with Shaun to and pluralism? And our nations’ city, which has been so passionately campuses and ban the Al Quds in London’s transport network so
hear about his plans as Mayor friendship is built on those How does the UK-Israel friendship supported by three Conservative march through London’s streets. everyone has a reliable service that
for London and support for shared values. help London? Prime Ministers. I am very pleased I’ve received such warm welcomes gets them to work on time. Crucially,
Israel and the Jewish community. that the revised planning application at synagogues across this city, and we must protect Greater London’s
What is your fondest memory The friendship between the UK and addresses the worries over the can’t imagine London without gems economy, so our city’s economy
of visiting Israel with CFI? Israel is a relationship that not only environmental impact on Victoria like Beigel Bake and Reubens (which continues to grow through Brexit
enriches the lives of Londoners Park Gardens. I believe that the I’m so pleased has reopened). and beyond.
I had the great pleasure of visiting but also helps keep us safer and Memorial will enhance this important
Israel for the first time with CFI healthier. Israeli tech and ingenuity public place next to our Houses
a few years ago. It was a real impacts upon the lives of Londoners of Parliament.
24 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 25Rt. Hon. Robert Halfon MP
IT’S TIME TO RECOGNISE Chairman of the Education Select Committee
THE PLIGHT OF JEWISH
REFUGEES FROM THE
MIDDLE EAST
Interior of the Dar al-Bishi synagogue, Tripoli
B
efore Muammar Gaddafi “It’s time to recognise the plight of Jewish
came to power in Libya
in the 1960s, my late refugees from the Middle East and give
grandfather, Renato
Halfon, was a member their story equal prominence at long last”.
of a small, but thriving, community
of Italian Tripolitanian Jews.
debate on the subject of Jewish Arab League even resolved in 1959
Like so many other Jews in North refugees from the Middle East not to allow Palestinians to become
African and Middle Eastern countries, and North Africa. As I said in the citizens of Arab countries. It is clear
he was forced to flee the country in unprecedented debate, the flight that this decision to perpetuate
1968, as hostility against the Jewish of historic Jewish communities their suffering is rooted in a troubling
population reached intolerable has altered the shape and face of desire to prolong the conflict
levels. His lifetime’s work - a clothing the region forever, but it is rarely with Israel.
business - was seized under the new recognised or spoken about on
regime, most likely given to Gaddafi’s the international stage. A lasting Middle East peace will
supporters to buy their loyalty, as was only endure if rights and redress
the case with many Jewish and Italian Between 1948 and 1972, pogroms are provided to Jewish refugees
businesses. took place in every Arab country as well as Palestinians. The UN
against the Jewish people living has passed 172 resolutions
With pogroms becoming a regular there, with countless age-old specifically on Palestinian refugees,
occurrence in Libya, Renato saw communities now extinct. but there have been none relating
the writing on the wall and sent my to Jewish refugees.
father, Clement, to England in the Many Jews fled their homes across
late 1950s, at the young age of 15. the region after the United Nations’ It’s time to recognise the plight
After initially seeking refuge in Italy, (UN) decision to partition Palestine of Jewish refugees from the
my grandfather joined him in North into Jewish and Arab states in Middle East and give their story
London soon after. 1947, as opposition to a modern equal prominence at long last.
Jewish state invariably morphed
Jewish people had lived in Libya into discrimination against the
for over 2,300 years and, by 1948, local Jewish population.
the population numbered more than
38,000. By the end of 1970, nearly Yet while Jewish refugees have
all Jews and Italians had left Libya. successfully integrated into Israel
Tents used as temporary housing and countries around the world,
for Jewish immigrants in Israel In June 2019, I shared my grandfather’s the Palestinian refugee population
story in the first ever UK parliamentary has been abandoned. Tellingly, the
26 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020
2018/2019 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 27FROM
TEL AVIV
TO
JERUSALEM:
A TRAVEL
GUIDE
TEL AVIV JERUSALEM
Welcome to Tel Aviv, the sun-soaked Meander through Nahalat The Museum of Art, Bauhaus Steeped in history, Jerusalem Museum-goers should also check the busy city streets. Castel, Flam,
city on the Mediterranean with a Binyamin’s craft market every Museum and tour, Bet Hatfutsot: is often labelled as the religious, out The Israel Museum, which Tzora and Sphera are the finest
Tuesday and Friday morning; the Museum of the Jewish People, houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and artisanal wineries in the area.
serious buzz. A unique metropolis spiritual and cultural epicentre
perfect place to pick up a quirky Yitzhak Rabin Centre, Independence is one of the world’s leading art Take in the beautiful scenery
combining ancient history and trinket or gift for your envious Hall and the Blind Museum (Holon) of the world. Hidden behind the and archaeological museums. while sampling the produce that’s
modern culture with a lively friends back home. Continue down are a few of our top choices. walls of the iconic Jerusalem putting Israel on the map.
nightlife, Tel Aviv is the high-tech to the Carmel Market and check out stone lies a vibrant and diverse Wander the streets of Yemin Moshe,
the weird and wonderful treats on For gastronomic heaven, head the first Jewish neighbourhood built If you’re in need of a quick bite,
capital that never sleeps. capital. The list of attractions on
offer, and sample an Israeli craft beer to Sarona Market, an iconic indoor outside the Old City Walls, and take Marzipan Bakery is a must-visit for
at Beer Bazaar. End with a culinary market set in the heart of the offer are endless, but here are sight of the Montefiore Windmill. the stickiest, most delicious rugelach
Just south of Tel Aviv you’ll find well-deserved ice cream from central business district, which hosts some top tips to get you started. Then make your way down to the in the world, and hummus lovers
one of the world’s oldest ports Anita in the exclusive streets outlets from some of Israel’s most Artists’ Colony to sip a cappuccino will fall head over heels for Ben-Sira
- Jaffa. Now regenerated, the area of Neve Tzedek. popular chefs. Be sure to go with If you’re only going to see one while perusing the galleries. Hummus a short walk away.
is a colourful thread of the city’s an empty stomach! sight while visiting Jerusalem,
urban tapestry, and a melting pot Find out about one of the nation’s the Old City is the one not to Machane Yehuda is a bustling and
of Jewish and Arab communities forward-thinking diplomats while miss. Immerse yourself in days gone colourful food market. Learn from
and cultures. Wind your way through discovering more about Israel’s RESTAURANTS: by; from Roman ruins and ornate the locals bartering for a good RESTAURANTS:
cobbled streets, stumble upon art rebirth as the ‘Start-Up Nation’ churches to the Western Wall and deal on fruit, fish, spices and local
Port Said Anna
galleries, ancient places of worship at the Peres Centre for Peace majestic Dome of the Rock. delicacies. Come closing time,
Vicky Cristina Eucalyptus
and Jaffa’s famous flea market. and Innovation. From the cherry the area becomes the heart of
Benedict Adom
tomato to drip irrigation, you name More than just a Holocaust museum, Jerusalem’s trendy nightlife with
Taizu Machneyuda
Follow in Prince William’s footsteps it, Israelis probably invented it. Yad Vashem brings together all the best bars and street food.
Kitchen Market Jacko Street
and visit one of Tel Aviv’s famous the past, present and future of
beaches. Our favourites are Gordon Tel Aviv is jam-packed with some Jewish history through meaningful The tranquil Jerusalem Hills are
Beach and Frishman Beach. of the country’s finest museums. exhibitions and beautiful grounds. just a stone’s throw away from
28 INFORMED MAGAZINE 2019/2020 @CFoI | www.cfoi.co.uk 29You can also read
