Interview with the President of Euro-Asian Jewish Congress (EAJC) Alexander Machkevitch.
Mr Machkevitch, how would you describe the current situation in Israel?
During the operation against Hezbollah the Israelis demonstrate self-control and solidarity in the face of armed terror. The state defense system is highly developed but a great umber of civilians suffered from terrorist acts. The north of Israel is available for bombings from the Lebanese side. Dozens were killed and hundreds were wounded. The rockets explode not only in the Jewish districts but also in the houses of Israeli Arabs, how it lately happened in holy Nazareth. Besides, humanitarian constructions were destructed. A railway depot and water-supply stations that Israelis do not use for military use (unlike Hezbollah) were demolished.
What fate is sealed for those who abandoned their homes with the start of the war?
The situation in the north will normalize with time, but the state even now renders assistance to the families in gravest situation. Like the other organizations of the Jewish Diaspora, the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress (EAJC) and the Keren Hayesod / United Israel Appeal in the CIS led by me make their permanent contribution to the facilitation for our compatriots. Forced migrants are accommodated in hotels. They are supplied with food; their leisure is ensured. The migrants maintain their work places and receive salary. Such social policy strengthens Israelis' patriotism and the wish to settle the existing problems without immigrating.
Can Armenia or the public of our state play its role in the settlement of the conflict?
First of all I would like to mark the selflessness of the Armenians who serve for the Israeli Defense Forces. Unfortunately, the fact that these two states are situated on the territories that belonged to them historically is hated by many Islamists throughout the globe. There is no place for compromise in the war on international terror, that is why the support of the Armenian public and Diaspora will strengthen the Jewish state which stands on the frontline with this evil.
Interview obtained by Armen Safaryan