The current situation is having a severe and direct affect on both the Palestinian population of the Gaza Strip and the Israeli communities in the areas close to the Gaza border. 

The children in our projects are from Palestinian communities in the West Bank and Israeli communities in peripheral areas.  These areas include Sderot and the surrounding communities situated on the Gaza border.  These communities are under fire within the range of the Hamas rockets; the Israeli army has imposed restrictions on organised gatherings and the children have not yet returned to their schools after the Chanukah vacation (as a safety precaution).  If the situation continues we will have to arrange transportation for them to train at an alternative location. 

The Palestinian children in our projects are from the West Bank so they are not in any direct danger.  However they feel very scared to come and meet with the Israelis and are witnessing the anger and demonstrations of the adult population towards the Israeli incursion in Gaza. 

Joint activities will recommence in a neutral area from next week and will include discussions about the current situation.  This will be a safe forum in which the participants can express their feelings and fears.  At present the situation remains extremely dangerous and we are monitoring events closely.  We are fully coordinated with the Al Quds Association to ensure our activities can continue as planned in safe locations.

We are totally against the killing of innocent people and on behalf of my colleagues in the Peres Center and at the Al Quds Association as well as the participants, parents, coaches, and teachers from both sides, we thank you all for your continuous support as we continue to work towards a viable, sustainable mutual peaceful future for both Israelis and Palestinians.