Hapoel Tel Aviv logo. Note the hammer and sickle and red colour. Hapoel means "the worker"; this is the sports organization founded by the Histadrut. Click on the image to learn more.

The following statement was issued today by the Scottish Trades Union Congress — a strong proponent of the campaign to boycott Israel, including a sports boycott.  Wouldn’t it have been more appropriate to use an event like this to promote peace — perhaps by waving the flags of both countries, or no flags at all?

STUC to ask Celtic fans to show Palestinian flags in solidarity with suffering Palestinians on December 2nd

Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) Deputy General Secretary Dave Moxham said:  “This December marks the one year anniversary of the Israeli invasion of Gaza in which 1400 men, women and children were killed in an act described by the United Nations as ‘indicating serious violations of international human rights’ and ‘amounting to war crimes, and possibly crimes against humanity.’

“Israel also continues to flout international law through its illegal occupation, through increasing settlements and building its so-called security wall which separates Palestinians, family from family and community from community.”

“When the Israel team Hapoel Tal Aviv visit Celtic Park on Wednesday night, millions around the world will be watching including those living in Israel and Palestine.

“I am today writing to Celtic FC and Hapoel Tel Aviv FC outlining the reasons and purpose of this call and making clear that we attach no blame either to Hapoel Tel Aviv players, nor their fans, for the outrageous actions of their government.

“We hope that Celtic fans will join with us in a demonstration of support for a just and lasting peace in Israel/Palestine based on a safe and secure Palestinian homeland living side by side with Israel.”