Profile of Haim Bresheeth: Israeli Academic Arrested in the UK After Bold Pro-Palestine Speech

Kapanlagi.com - Haim Bresheeth, a Jewish academic and retired professor, has become the center of public attention after being arrested by the Metropolitan Police in London. This shocking arrest took place on Friday, as Bresheeth delivered a speech at an anti-genocide protest in front of the residence of the Israeli Ambassador to the UK, Tzipi Hotovely.

In his passionate oration, Bresheeth boldly stated that Israel "cannot win against Hamas," a statement that immediately triggered a strong reaction from the authorities.

After his arrest, Bresheeth, who is also known as a filmmaker and founder of the Jewish Network for Palestine, was released the following day. However, he is still under investigation and facing charges of supporting a banned organization. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that his detention was related to the controversial statements made in his speech.

So, who exactly is Haim Bresheeth? Let’s delve deeper into this figure who has now become the focus of attention, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Wednesday (6/11).

1. Profile of Haim Bresheeth

Haim Bresheeth, a tireless academic and critic, has established his position in the world of media and culture thanks to a rich educational background in Israel and the UK. Since 2002, he has served as a Professor of Media and Cultural Studies at the University of East London, where he has become one of the leading voices in the study of social and political issues.

With a plethora of documentary works that have garnered attention, such as "A State of Danger" (1988), which explores Israeli-Palestinian cooperation during the first Intifada, Bresheeth has made a name for himself at international film festivals. His works, including important publications like "The Gulf War and the New World Order" and "Introducing the Holocaust," reflect his deep interest in global issues and history.

Moreover, Bresheeth has also been involved in early thought-provoking documentary projects, such as "The Crumbling Ivory Tower" and "Dinosaurs in the Playground," which demonstrate his commitment to presenting social realities through the lens of film.

2. The Arrest of Professor Haim Bresheeth During a Pro-Palestine Protest

In a protest that shook the atmosphere in London last Friday, Haim Bresheeth launched a scathing critique of Israel, firmly stating that the country "will never be able to defeat Hamas."

The protest, which took place outside the residence of the Israeli Ambassador to the UK, Tzipi Hotovely, was attended by a group of anti-genocide activists who bravely spoke out.

In his passionate speech, Bresheeth expressed courage against Israel's military policies and the chaos engulfing Gaza, asserting, "They cannot win against Hamas, Hezbollah, or the Houthis. They cannot defeat the united resistance against the genocide that has begun."

However, this bold statement led to his detention on charges of supporting a banned organization.

3. Charges of Supporting a Banned Organization

Bresheeth, the founder of the Jewish Network for Palestine known for loudly criticizing Israeli policies and advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people, is now facing serious allegations.

He is accused of supporting organizations banned by the UK, including Palestinian and Lebanese resistance movements. The arrest carried out by the Metropolitan Police of London under the Terrorism Act of 2000 took place last night, before he was released the following day.

However, the investigation into his case is still ongoing, given that several of these resistance groups have been classified as banned organizations in the UK.

4. Criticism of Israeli Policies and Colonialism Issues

In his stirring speech, Bresheeth did not hesitate to launch sharp criticisms of Israeli policies in Palestine, highlighting deep issues such as colonialism, racism, and violence targeting civilians, including innocent children. His statements created a wave of attention and controversy, especially amid the surge of pro-Palestinian protests in the UK.

"Israel has not achieved any of the goals they stated, whether in Gaza, Lebanon, or Iran," he asserted. According to Bresheeth, Israel seems trapped in a labyrinth of defeat in every battle against Palestinian resistance, which he considers a monumental failure in maintaining their ambitions.

5. Increased Use of Anti-Terror Law Against Pro-Palestinian Activists

The arrest of Bresheeth adds to the long list of cases in the UK involving the enforcement of anti-terrorism laws against pro-Palestinian activists. In recent months, the British police have increasingly intensified their efforts to arrest journalists and activists advocating for Palestinian rights, using new laws such as the Public Order Act 2023.

Amid a wave of expanding demonstrations, these laws empower authorities to take strong action against individuals deemed to be spreading hate speech or threatening certain communities. This action has sparked protests from various groups defending freedom of expression.

(kpl/rmt)