Dear Friends,
I hope this email finds you well. As many of you know I am facing a serious legal battle in the UK as result of my recent activism to end Israeli crimes.
On Nakba Day, May 2022, nine of us from Palestine Action took part in shutting down the headquarters of Elbit Systems, Bristol, UK, which is Israel’s largest arms manufacturer and supplier of most killer-drones that hover over Gaza.
The press release stated, “Actionists stormed the flagship premises of Elbit Systems, in Bristol, this afternoon; destroying the building’s interior, dismantling offices and equipment, and barricading themselves inside, while others blocked road access to the site. The large group of activists, which includes two Israeli dissidents, have taken direct action against Elbit Systems to demand an end to British complicity with Israeli apartheid.”
I’m one of the two Israeli dissidents. While nine activists got arrested, the seven who are UK citizens were released after a few days. The two of us from Palestine (aka Israel) were denied bail and incarcerated for a month. We were required to surrender our passports and are under strict bail conditions including house arrest. We are prevented from leaving the UK until the court date on April 17, 2023.
Unfortunately, I don’t qualify for legal aid in the UK. Therefore, I am responsible for the full funding of my legal defense which amounts to £50,000. I’m represented by Kellys Solicitors and Garden Court Chambers who are already preparing my case and attending court hearings. The legal expenses have started to pile up and I’m depending on your assistance.
The money for the defense fund is being raised through CrowdJustice and goes directly to Kellys Solicitors. Click this link https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/helpronnie to read more about the situation and support me in the struggle to shut Elbit down. I’m very proud of the work we’ve done and of the numerous other actionists and supporters who are determined to end the horrendous crimes that take place in front of our eyes and in our name. I greatly appreciate your donation and sharing it with your friends, social circles and families.
You can contact me directly at barkanronnie@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions.
Let’s shut Elbit down.
Thank you,
Ronnie
Email: barkanronnie@gmail.com
30/08