In These New Times

Iran calls on Israelis to take to the streets in protest at the war on Gaza, saying soldiers should also refrain from following orders. 

“I call on all those who live in the occupied territories, including Jews, Christians and Muslims to pour into the streets,” said Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a Thursday message. 

He added that Israelis should show their support for the Palestinian nation by joining the world in demonstrating against the crimes committed by Tel Aviv. 

“To the people who live under Israeli repression in the occupied territories, you are human beings no matter your religion, race for faith. It is time that you ponder and ask the leaders of the Zionist regime why it is that the people of Gaza are being treated in this way,” said the Iranian president. 

Nearly 1,100 Palestinians — many of whom are women and children — have been killed and 4,700 have been wounded since Israel launched its offensive against the Palestinian territory on December 27. 

“Why is it that the people of Lebanon have to be treated in this way? Why are they carrying out a massacre? Why are they treating people, who are dear to God, in this way? Why are they killing children and blowing them to pieces?” he added. 

Ahmadinejad also urged Israeli soldiers to disobey their commanders when ordered to fire upon the women and children of Gaza. 

“Ask yourself why you have to kill women and children and innocent civilians? It is time that you protest over orders given by your commanders. Disobey their orders to massacre and refrain from killing innocent civilians,” he added.

Ahmadinejad urged protests to continue until “the thoughts that fuel disrespect, abuse and racism dry up”. 

Since the beginning of the Gaza onslaught, Israel has targeted schools, hospitals, UN relief centers, journalists, media offices, mosques and relief workers, drawing condemnation from international organizations and aid agencies, such as Human Rights Watch, the Red Cross and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).