Interview with Jerusalem Bloc student representative

"What are the main aims and goals of your bloc?"

Firstly, we want to promote the student movement to play its role in issues related to the Palestinian society and the Palestinian cause.

Second, we aim to shape the character of students and developing them socially and intellectually.

We are also trying to strength ties with other blocs, and our brothers in the Arab world and enhance the sense of belonging to the Palestinian cause among the bloc members.

In regards to students, we try to help students academically as well as financially, and also in facing social or psychological problems.

Finally, we try too maintain the University's integrity and independence so as to exercise its role in promoting democracy and freedom of expression.

Jerusalem Bloc cartoon, "Do nothing and put your head in the ground - leave the heroism to me"

"What do you think are the main issues facing students on campus?"

On the academic level students face problems regarding the opportunities of selecting Majors and minors. On the social and intellectual levels: many students face social problems and are in need of help. Also, we believe that students are the key players in the society. Therefore, great attention should be paid to them. On the financial level, most of the students have financial problems which means that they have to work to support themselves. This affects their study one way or the other.

"What is your opinion on the Oslo and Wye Agreements?"

The Jerusalem bloc is the continuity of the Fatah Movement. The Oslo and Wye Accords were supported by Fatah because of a certain view of the political situation, we as the Jerusalem bloc are not against the Palestinian National Authority, but we do have our reservations as regards certain issues in the Oslo agreements. Our aim is the establishment of an independent Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital. Hence, anything that does not lead to this is rejected. As for the Wye River Agreement, I'm not really aware of its details. Yet, there are certain principles we, as the Jerusalem bloc, adhere to and we reject anything that contradicts with them. These principles are:

Abu Jihad - Palestinian martyr and former leader of Fatah

a) The establishment of an Independent Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital.

b) Immediate and unconditional release of the Palestinian prisoners at the Israeli jails.

c) The right of self-determination, and the right of return to all Palestinians wherever they are.

d) Dismantlement of settlements in the Occupied Territories, and a halt to land confiscation and settlement activity.

"How do you see the role of women in Palestinian society?"

Women should participate in making decisions just like men. They might even have more responsibilities to perform. I think there should not be any discrimination based on gender, but people should be judeged on their ability.

When asked to give the blocs 'word to the world', the student representative stated:

The Palestinian people have the right to live freely and establish their Independent State on their national soil. A Palestinian child has the right to smile. The Palestinians have been through a lot of misjustice over the years, and the whole world has contributed to it. We hope the world will help us end this!