Some good news...

Today, on the 11th May 2001, I got the news that Judge in the Israeli courts did not approve the Israeli Land Administration's (ILA) attempt to begin the bidding process to sell of the lands of Lifta. The Judge requested that there should be a survey for the village taking into conseration the opinion of the Israel Archaeological Department. The Judge asked the ILA to halt any further process or the decision would be taken against them; and then gave the ILA two weeks to respond to the suggestion.

In the short while, the possibility of a survey will slow down the pace of activities pursued by the ILA. It may encourage further investigation into the conservation planning for Lifta however it may still not over-ride the regional planning of this place; possibily a mediated alternative outlook instead.

Nevertheless, this will give my organisation - Belonging, the necessary time needed to develop their proposal for a long-term plan for Lifta in consideration to be alternatively planned as a place of conscience. And with regional and international advocacy allow us to sustain the campaign to make such an attempt.

Today was a good day for Lifta, lets hope we can say the same tomorrow...


To find out more about Belonging's vision for a long-term plan for Lifta please copy & paste the link below or read the Saving Lifta article below the last post:

http://www.thisweekinpalestine.com/details.php?id=3407&ed=194&edid=194

Anil Korotane, director of Belonging

Film Extract - The Lifta Controversy

This film extract by award-winning film-maker and friend Menachem Daum gives an oversight into the current controversy concerning Lifta whilst depicting Menachem's very own personal journey and investgation through his connection to Lifta. Menachem's uncle was possibly one of the members of the Stern gang militia who drove out the inhabitants of Lifta during the 1947/48 Nakba catastrophe. Menachem seeks to inquire into his initial simplistic views of what happened during the period that led to the creation of Israel, and through his family connection to Lifta, encounter what value this place holds to all still touched by her presence.