THE suggestion that Harrow be twinned with Tel Aviv (Harrow Observer, November 11) brings a string of adjectives to mind: crass, ignorant, insensitive and inflammatory for a start.
At a time when Israel's brutal military occupation of the Palestinian lands is in its 44th year - with its attendant abuses of human rights, infringements of International Law and ever increasing illegal settlement building - twinning with the undoubtedly prosperous Tel Aviv would not show Harrow Council's intelligence or policy making in any fine light.
The proposer of this twinning mentions glibly that there are 'many Jews in Harrow'. As a Jew myself, I would point out that many Jews in the UK, (yes, even in Harrow), worldwide and within Israel itself, are appalled by and opposed to Israel's arrogant and inhumane actions.
What about the many Muslims, Christians and those of other or non-faith in Harrow who feel the same way and do not wish to be associated with Israel's policies?
Of course, Harrow Council can decide to go ahead. It would not be the first or last time that the UK has ignored the sufferings of a subjugated, oppressed or discriminated population in favour of advantageous trade agreements and the encouragement of the tourist industry.
Twinning with Tel Aviv at this time would not highlight Harrow Council's collective intelligence or progressive thinking.
On the other hand, Harrow Council might, for the present, consider twinning with besieged Gaza, or with Ramallah, Nablus or Jenin in the West Bank as a gesture of solidarity and support.
That would be the less financially lucrative, but more morally correct, thing to do.
ROSAMINE HAYEEM Address supplied
