Prosor: Spreading truth important
Photo: AP
London envoy's PR victory
Ambassador to Britain gets round of applause at Oxford Union, a hotbed of anti-Israel sentiment
In a rare occurrence last week, Israel's ambassador to Britain received a round of applause after delivering a speech at Oxford Union.
Israeli speakers have grown accustomed to derision and catcalling during speeches aimed at redeeming the Jewish state's image in the eyes of British citizens.
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But last week Ron Prosor enjoyed a small victory at Oxford Union Society, one of the world's most respected debate clubs and a frequent host of world leaders.
The academic society is considered a hub of anti-Israel sentiment. In February it hosted Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon, whose speech was continuously interrupted before he was finally escorted from the hall by a legion of security officers.
When the society invited Prosor to give a lecture on security in the shadow of extremism, he says he did not hesitate for a moment.
"Spreading our truth is an important mission, especially in problematic areas," he said. Protestors were waiting for him at the gates when he arrived, but a surprise was in store for all.
In his speech, Prosor said moderate Arab nations should collaborate with Israel in its battle against extremist elements, such as Hamas.
Palestinians have a choice, Hamas or Abbas, and they should make an educated selection to support moderate elements who are interested in peace, the ambassador told the hundreds of students gathered in the hall.
He also fielded a number of poignant questions on subjects such as West Bank settlements. Jerusalem was the capital of Israel when London was just swamplands, he remarked in answer to one student.
Upon ending the lecture Prosor received a round of applause, with some members of the audience even giving him a standing ovation.
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