B-ICC North West welcomed guests from across the north to hear politician and barrister Suella Braverman MP.
A fascinating afternoon event for over 150 at Manchester Hall with former home secretary Suella Braverman was hosted by B-ICC North West in May. Nigel Tobias, new Executive Director of B-ICC, welcomed guests including sponsor and Israel Bonds Head of International Sales and Operations Arnon Perlman. Arnon took to the floor first and described how the current conflict has been affecting the economy, and his take on the current landscape. Arnon also charted his career which started as a fledgling reporter,
to working as a consul general for the Israeli Consulate in China and serving in the media division of Ariel Sharon’s government: “Israel Bonds is proud to be the sponsor of this event,” he said. “Israel is an amazing country, we have a genius innovation, and we are flourishing today, despite constant war. I am proud that has raised over $50 million for Israel over 73 years, but Israel’s needs all our support more than ever, and investment in our bonds, and we will continue to support the economy despite whatever challenges we face.”
Conservative MP Mrs Braverman, who is known for speaking out against antisemitism, began her talk on the situation in Israel, saying: “It’s vital that trade between UK and Israel continues to grow, I know the governments are working hard on this, Israel is powerhouse of innovation, enterprise and technology, this is a challenging time for the country and the Jewish community, I’d like to reconfirm my support and the support of the government to Israel and for the community here in the UK.” Emotionally describing her recent visit to Israel, Mrs Braverman relived her journey seeing firsthand the Gaza area, and meeting IDF representatives, survivors and parents of hostages: “I was blown away by the resilience of the people, defiant to defeat evil. It was incredibly inspiring. I met people living in makeshift accommodation, their world turned upside down, and heard some tragic stories. I believe the NATO alliance must invest heavily to combat the threats of hostile states.” Turning to domestic matters, Mrs Braverman said: “I’ve been disappointed with the lack of policing at the hate marches in the UK. The community deserves a safe environment, and antisemitism, hatred and threats have been allowed to go unenforced. I want to apologise on behalf of the government. Antisemitism is racism. There is a solution, and the police should be confronting and arresting those causing incitement. Strong leadership and zero tolerance is required, the Jewish people have been attacked for so many years, but it has shown the resilience to get through and win, you will do so again.”
Journalist and broadcaster Angela Epstein then facilitated a question-and-answer session following a standing ovation to round off the event.
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