Israel thinks culture and propaganda are the same

There is likely to be an angry backlash against Ken Loach and the many others who call on London cinemas not to host the London Israeli Film and Television Festival, which is at least partly promoted and financed by the Israeli government.

Many will say culture and the arts promote unity. However, it is a fact that the Israeli government sees no difference between culture and propaganda and has stated so explicitly.

Israel also enforces a kind of boycott, cultural and otherwise, on the Palestinian people.

In 2009, Palestinians tried to hold a cultural festival in East Jerusalem. Israel banned it, and Israeli police broke up cultural gatherings and arrested 20 organisers and participants.

Many other examples could be given.

Brendan O’Brien

Secretary Enfield Palestine Solidarity Campaign

Winchmore Hill

London