Flotilla captain wants to visit Israel
Captain of Irish vessel Shane Dillon, expelled from Israel for 10 years, wants to promote peace in region
The captain of the Gaza flotilla's Irish vessel, who was expelled from Israel for 10 years, is asking to visit the country for the sake of "promoting peace."
Shane Dillon was captain of the Irish ship in both flotillas – last year his vessel was towed to Ashdod port while this year a mysterious case of sabotage prevented the ship from setting sail.
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Dillon added, "I would like to be involved with you and your state in the promotion of peace in the Middle East and if possible work with you to attain a lasting peace for all Israelis, therefore attaining lasting respect and a mutual understanding between all communities involved."
However, he stated that "I do not think that I have solutions for the troubles but it is my wish to be given the opportunity to assist in peaceful discussion."
Pro-Palestinian protesters at Israeli embassy
Diplomats at Israel's embassy in Ireland said that they were surprised by the letter but noted that they plan on delivering Dillon's request to officials in Jerusalem.
Sources in the Foreign Ministry, however, said that the chances that his request would be granted were slim. "The promises to promote cooperation between the peoples are insane, naïve, stupid and impertinent," one source said.
Watch Irish rugby players backing flotilla
Meanwhile, weekly protests against Israel in front of the embassy in Dublin have been escalating in recent weeks. Dozens of activists wave signs saying "Honk for Gaza" and make noise that disrupts the embassy's work.
As of late, a number of anti-Semitic cartoons and posters have been used as well. Embassy officials are examining possibilities to take legal action against the demonstrators.
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