Hundreds of protesters were arrested following nationwide demonstrations
צילום: אחיה ראב"ד
'Road blockers justified'
Former prime minister justifies right-wing protesters blocking highways; freedom of expression is very important, including freedom to protest and demonstrate, he says
JERUSALEM - The right-wing activists' decision to block central highways and junctions in protest to the Gaza pullout plan is justifiable, former Prime Minister Ehud Barak said Tuesday.
"Freedom of expression is very important, including freedom to protest and demonstrate," Barak said in an interview with the Knesset's television channel.
"I would say that what we saw yesterday (Monday) is reasonable," he said. "Together with this, I'm convinced the disengagement, which has already begun and has faced legislative obstacles, would be carried out eventually."
Warns of Jewish provocation
Barak also warned of another political murder - Former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was murdered in 1995 by a right-wing extremist - and called for the public to be aware of individuals who may attempt to harm politicians.
"We need to be more aware of isolated crazy people who may attempt to murder political personalities, blow up explosives at Temple Mount, or provoke in a way that would result in an exchange of fire between Israelis during the evacuation," he said.
In addition, Barak slammed Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and his ability to fully implement the disengagement plan.
"He has reached the end of his journey with his tongue hanging out, with the Likud in pieces under his feet," he said. "There is no way that Sharon would be able to carry out the complete pullout necessary for Israel," he said.
Meanwhile, following publication of this report, Barak requested to clarify that he "is against any illegal act, but supports freedom of expression."
