Author: Keren Solomonian

Keren is an Armenian pro Israel activist that runs the Israeli Armenian Solidarity Group on Facebook. She is passionate about her beliefs which she draws from the bible and she sees a great opportunity for an Israeli and Armenian partnership in the future.
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ARMENIAN GENOCIDE RECOGNITION FAIT ACCOMPLI ACCORDING TO THE KNESSET

IT’S APRIL – YEAR 102 – NO OFFICIAL RECOGNITION

It’s that time again.  April 24th 2017 marks the 102nd commemoration of the Armenian Genocide where Armenians all over the world, including in Israel, will never let you forget what we went through and demand worldwide recognition.  

As An Armenian dedicated to Israel and Armenia, on occasion I write you about pertinent issues.  I have a platform where I am known, Israeli Armenian Solidarity and Israel Rising has welcomed me as a guest contributor from time to time.  Since before the inception of Israeli Armenian Solidarity I have strived to be an instrument of knowledge, information and encouragement.  For the last 2 years I’ve been bringing Israeli affairs and Armenian affairs to the members of the group to speak out for and teach about issues these 2 great peoples, I particularly relished the similarities and our horrific tragedies.  

WHAT IS THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE?  A basic question but believe it or not a lot people still don’t know about the Armenian Genocide.  It was the Armenian Holocaust.  It was perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire 102 years ago.  Initiated on April 24th of 1915 through May of 1923.  Yes, systematically, methodically the government saw WWI as an opportunity to finish the ‘Armenian problem’ ultimately the Christian problem.  Along with slaughtering 1.5 Million of my people, they slaughtered hundreds of thousands Greeks and Assyrians.  Whereas some might say “Aha, it was not targeted” indeed it was.  All three groups are Christian.  Therefore a major underlying factor was our faith.  Every Turkish government has subsequently denied what was perpetrated hence the biggest difference between the Holocaust and the Genocide.  Mind you, the Germans were close allies and onlookers of what ‘their predecessors’ were committing.  And yet, Germany caught red handed could not deny the innocent blood spilt, the Turks did boldly deny and have continued for 102 years.  

So every year, we remember and demand.

ISRAEL’S STANCE:  WE SAY IT’S A FAIT ACCOMPLI

Here’s the definition: An accomplished fact, something that has already occurred; a (colloquial American) “done deal“

Last year in July 2016, Zehava Gal-On of Meretz initiated discussions about how imperative it is for Israel the Jewish nation, to recognize the Armenian Genocide in the Knesset quoting Eli Weisel, BD, who had recently passed on.  After some discussion the brilliant decision was made to defer the topic to The Knesset Education Committee.  The next day, the Education Minister came out with a statement:

“It is our moral obligation to recognize the Armenian genocide,” said committee chair Yakov Margi (Shas) at a committee meeting.

We, at Israeli Armenian Solidarity believe the Knesset has recognized the Armenian Genocide as a Fait Accompli.  It is a done deal.  

In fact, I made a video: https://www.facebook.com/keren.m123/videos/1478394385519832/

OK then, great what’s the problem?  There was no official declaration.  Without the official statement we are in a constant arm twisting mode….

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Every year, around April 24th, there are different events/marches being held in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.  Armenians all over Israel gather and call out for admittance from the Turks and recognition from the Knesset.  I ask that you all share this article and demand the Knesset to take that final step.  

This year, my brilliant Hebrew teacher, Zev Garber informed me that Yom haShoah Nairim is also on April 24th. This is no coincidence.  Now is the time.  Stand with us in Solidarity! Thank you.
https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/fait_accompli

http://asbarez.com/152504/knesset-discusses-but-does-not-recognize-armenian-genocide/

http://www.timesofisrael.com/knesset-education-committee-recognizes-armenian-genocide/

https://www.facebook.com/keren.m123/videos/1478394385519832/

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Bibi Netanyahu Must Decide: Alexander Lapshin or Azerbaijan

Yesterday Alexander Lapshin was extradited to Baku to face his fate.  

A couple of months ago, Alexander Lapshin, a Russian Israeli blogger spoke out against Azerbaijan’s oppressive policies and for the independence of Artsakh aka Nagorno-Karabagh.  Azerbaijan has already faced strong condemnation for its oppression of reporters and the ill treatment of their journalists.  On the other issue, Artsakh is historical Armenian land that was given unjustly to Azerbaijan in the ‘20’s.  It is now 100% Armenian populated and is fighting for independence.  Lapshin saw this and spoke out.  

In the middle of December an INTERPOL notice was issued for his arrest and extradition.  He was arrested in Belarus. He was imprisoned for nearly 2 months waiting for his release.  Finally the Belarus president, announced that he would extradite him. He added that he didn’t understand why there was a delay.   It is also purported that Alexander was given an ultimatum to apologize and recant his words, which he did not.   Lapshin filed to appeal the decision but to no avail.  Yesterday he was extradited to Baku.

Globally, Armenians protested numerous times for his release, crying out for world attention.  No change.  Last Friday in Tel Aviv, Israelis protested in front of the Belarus embassy.  Again to no avail.  The pleas fell on deaf ears.  In a bold statement, Nagorno-Karabagh President Spokesperson Davit Babayan said that Lapshin’s extradition is a “challenge” to Israel.  Even Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not done anything to change the situation.  

In closing, I reflect on an event of recent days in the Caucaus region.  A few days ago, an Azeri soldier was captured during an attempted infiltration operation into Artsakh (Karabagh).  Upon learning of his capture, the Azeri army immediately disowned him as an inactive soldier.  While his mother vouches that he is indeed an active soldier.  If this is how they treat their own soldiers, then who’s to say how they will treat Lapshin.  

Freedom should not be muzzled and free-speech will not be muzzled.

What will the Israeli government do?  Is the risk of hurting the Azeri-Israeli relationship worth saving Lapshin?

 

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Israel’s Azerbaijan Problem

DOES A DEMOCRACY BEHAVE LIKE THIS?

Israeli Russian Jewish blogger, Alexander Lapshin did something brave, he crossed over from Azerbaijan to Artsakh aka Nagorno Karabagh and came out speaking for Artsakh’s Independence which automatically steps on Azeri toes.  The Azeri’s were furious and wanted him arrested and extradited.  In spite of the democratic façade, Azerbaijan is an oppressive regime and this is proof positive of that.

He is sitting now in a Belarus jail waiting for the next step.  From what I understand Israel has intervened and he will not be extradited to Azerbaijan.  This blogger has been saved from sure torture and probable death if he ended up in Azeri hands.  

We must show our support and let our voices be heard for Alex Lapshin.  He must be released.  There is no crime in speaking the truth.

ISRAEL SHOULD NOT SELL AZERBAIJAN IRON DOME TECHNOLOGY 

This past December Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev met in Azerbaijan to have discussions.  Soon after we read the following headline in the news: Azerbaijan wants to purchase Iron Dome technology.  Next day, it was a done deal.  

When I read this headline, I asked myself do they realize the potential consequences of this deal?  I marveled over this agreement for quite some time and concluded either Israel is extremely naive and careless or the political analysts don’t see beyond their noses.  

  1. This Technology is defensive but can embolden this regime
    1. Can you guarantee the Iron Dome technology will not facilitate a war with Artsakh?
  1. This Technology will be in Shiite hands.
    1. Can you guarantee it won’t get in other Shiite hands?

In my strong outcry and numerous commentaries, I was reminded by members of the group, Israeli Armenian Solidarity, ‘Keren, it’s a defensive technology so you have nothing to worry about.’  

I recall reading a couple of years ago after Operation Protective Edge, the UN told Israel to give Hamas ID Technology.  I remember scratching my head when I read that, smirking at the absurdity.  Why would Israel do that?  Let Hamas not start wars and no one will need IDT.  

So I came up with my follow up question. “Why doesn’t Israel sell this defense technology to Hamas?”

Don’t jump out of your seat!  I know why.  But can the reader start to empathize now why it’s a bad idea for Azerbaijan to buy this technology?  Let me try to answer, but first let me give a little background.

We, who follow Middle East politics, know about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict but is the public know about the Azerbaijan-Nagorno Karabagh conflict?  

Let me explain it in a quick nutshell.  Back in 1920’s about the same time Palestine was being discussed, the Caucus region was also discussed for drawing out borders.  Stalin promised to give us, the Armenians our historic lands of Artskah aka Nagorno Karabagh and more to us.  What did he do?  Definitely not as he promised. Stalin divided up the lands in another way.  He gave OUR historical lands to Azerbaijan.  

Source: Wikipedia

There was bloodshed over the years including pogroms against Armenians who were living in Baku, reminiscent of the Hebron Massacre.   

In 1991 when Armenia became independent of the Soviet Union about the same time we claimed Artsakh to be ours.  At that point the Armenian population was very high. Today it’s one hundred percent and Azerbaijan does not want to let go of our lands.  Hence our conflict.

Relevant Parallels:

  1. The same way parts of Israel have been given to this false owners who dub themselves Palestinians, this territory land was given to Azerbaijan.
  2. The ‘Palestinians’ or Hamas attack and break ceasefires – Azerbaijan the same.  (We are in a ceasefire mode as I write today).  Nearly every day Azerbaijan breaks the ceasefire, it is just too tempting from their high ground vantage point.
  3. Muslim aggressors (Hamas and cronies) against Jews & in our case: Muslim aggressors against Christians.  

As a side note but one that can not be neglected, there are many other parallels the most notable being: the Armenian and Jewish holocausts.  Both of our peoples went through attempted annihilation.  The Armenian Genocide in WWI and the Jewish Holocaust in WWII.  

With that setting in mind, let’s go back in time a little – just a little.  Last year in April 2016, Azerbaijan received a shipment of Israeli drones – THE VERY NEXT DAY, they started war with Nagorno Karabagh.  The drones were used in kamikaze style and against the Geneva Convention laws. They killed civilians with these drones.  Azerbaijan also committed war crimes by the horrendous murders and mutilations (including decapitations) Nagorno Karabagh soldiers.  This is what I call the Hamas of the Caucuses.

Now fast forward to today, Azerbaijan wants the Iron Dome technology.  Is an attack from Iran imminent? No.  Azerbaijan will start a war with Armenians in Artsakh.  

They want to finish the Armenian Genocide that their big sister, Turkey started a century ago.  Israel I beseech you, Bibi and Likud, I beseech you to not sell Iron Dome technology to Azerbaijan. They will start a war with us.

Don’t be naive or careless.  Rethink your analysis.  You have been informed and God is awake and never slumbering.  If Israel is to be a light to the nations as you are to be then stop being scared of saying no.  Trying to wash your proverbial hands will not wash away the stains.  

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OPEN THE DOOR AND LET JUSTICE IN

Knock, knock! Who’s there? Erdogan is knocking on Israel’s door. Shock! Surprise!! NOT! Turkey, with debacle after debacle now wants to restore relations with Israel. Oh really? After Erdogan’s military shot down a Russian jet, within hours Putin announced his first move, economic sanctions on Turkey, saying ‘We will not buy from you, rather we will buy from Israel.’

Stab and twist.

With Putin’s strong arm in Syria, the Russian military is coming out successful in efforts to obliterate ISIS/Daesh and frankly, Turkey is in the roost. Not only has Turkey been accused of aiding and financing ISIS/Daesh, who is one of the most evil & vile force in the world today, but Turkey is widely known to be connected to our enemy, Hamas. This factor must, absolutely be dealt with. Putin in a smart political move met with Netanyahu to show Erdogan and whoever else, this alliance is fortified. Now Erdogan wants to restore relations with Israel.

By the year’s end, the Israeli government will decide how to proceed with Turkey. What will the strategy be? Flotilla payoff? Unilateral or bilateral demands? Anything? BUT WAIT! Another door has been knocking in Israel for years!! Behind it the blood of over a millions Armenians is crying out to NOT BE forgotten. Israel needs jump on this opportune time and recognize the Armenian Genocide with no delay.

Why now? Clearly, Israel has the upper hand. What do we have to lose? Erdogan needs Israel…. Our way or the highway. And I boldly suggest they stipulate Turkey to finally come out and confess their dirty deed. Israel, in particular, the Holocaust people needed to make this announcement many years ago, but to our shame because of politics, i.e. Turkish & Azerbaijani relations we have NOT. Try to put yourself in their shoes. Grounds of politics LOCKED, on grounds of compassion UNLOCKED with a welcome mat. In recent months, the news over and over again exposed how the Grand Mufti who spurred on the king of the Nazis to burn the Jews was also a part of the Armenian Genocide, and when he became the Grand Mufti, it was he who went to Hitler and helped plot against the Jewish people. Do you see the connection? Of course then there’s the famous quote when Hitler said, ‘Who remembers what happen to the Armenians.’

It is clear that we are connected in more ways than one, with Azerbajian/Nagorno-Karabagh conflict (an Armenian populated region given by the soviets to the modern day Azeris) and the Israeli/’Palestinian’ conflict. Both a diaspora people who recently obtained a country again, respectively. And here we are again, shall we stand idly by?? With the outreach of Armenians visiting and building relations with Israel, Armenia has proven to be a good ally even though, through ignorance, we are on Azerbaijan’s arms vendor list.

Armenia is a thriving, ambitious young country whose numbers would have been exponentially greater had not their Genocide like for us, had our Holocaust not happened. Our histories’ similar, our plights’ alike and our conflicts unresolved… There have been many advocates: Rivlin, pre-presidential days was a strong proponent for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Edelstein has gone before the Knesset earlier this year, Israeli Greek Orthodox priest Naddaf is outspoken for this cause, in Nov Sassounian, an American Armenian editor brought forth a compassionate, logical plea, of course for years the Israeli Armenian Community has attempted to reach ear that will not hear, last week a delegation from Armenian visited Israel and finally we the people of Israel, stand up and ask for justice. Israel must put politics aside once and for all. Let us stand with the Armenian people whose motto is Never Forget and say Never Again our motto. The time is now to open the door and recognize the Armenian Genocide.

I implore the Israel government to take this opportunity and make history. Stop being embarrassed of what we haven’t done and make a wrong right and also to stipulate to Turkey in their time of desperation, that Turkey needs to confess what the Ottoman Empire committed against the Armenians. Let’s take it all the way…. Answer the door let the screaming blood of the dead be put to rest. The doors are knocking…. open them both and restore the dignity of the dead and demand from Turkey justice as we are a light to the nations. Why? Because righteousness and wisdom is our path…

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I See No Big Difference, Do You?

As an Armenian, whose ancestors were victims of the Armenian genocide, as a daughter of a DP (displaced person) whose father’s whole family were in forced labor camps in Stuttgart, Germany during World War II  – the topic of the behavior of the Ottoman Empire vs the modern-day Turkish regime actions are always in the back my mind and any Armenian’s mind.  

In Jan 2007, when Turkish born Armenian journalist Hrant Dink (January 2007) gets assassinated for speaking out and telling the truth…I see no big difference, do you?

More recently in October 2015, Turkish Mayor Abdullah Demirbas of the municipality of Sur in Diyarbakir, a brave man standing up for the minorities in Turkey including Armenians, has been harassed, threatened, imprisoned and became deathly ill for speaking out against injustices done to minorities (us) in Turkey, I see no big difference, do you? 

When reflecting on the recent bombing in Ankara where Kurds and minorities were rallying for their voices to be heard…. Erdogan alluded to ISIS being involved, when now we know Turkey is a backer of ISIS….I see no big difference, do you? 

Also, reading of the potential idea that Erdogan’s daughter and son being involved with ISIS and of course many other articles connecting Turkey directly to ISIS makes one ask: I see no big difference, do you? 

What is the difference between today’s Turkish regime and the Ottoman Empire?  International oversight? Turkey is a part of international coalition today so they are held accountable for their actions.  Really?  Is there any true scrutiny… except when it comes to Israel and the double standard automatically applied to every action or non-action which of most are clearly accusations & clearly distortions of the ‘campaign of young Arab muslim terror’ happening daily.

Turkey seems to autonomously make moves having the world in an unspoken grip.  Who can do what to them? Erdogan the visionary and his vision seem to be far reaching into the future with maybe a desire to become an empire again?  Can it be?  

Now, with the grave error of striking down Putin’s plane, the world sits back and watches as the first step of an economical withdrawal is made by Russia… adding insult to injury, we won’t buy from you WE WILL BUY FROM ISRAEL!!  Let’s just sit back and see what other front will be doused in Putin’s 2nd plan of retaliation attack on Turkey.  Erdogan, sit down.  Autonomous, are you??  World, I hope to see a difference, don’t you?