Palestinian doctor:‘All I want is for Israel to take responsibility’

Abuelaish is an embryology and genetics specialist, and is now working in Toronto. Nominated four times for the Nobel Peace Prize, he has 14 honorary doctorates from Canadian and American universities. He also has the Order of Ontario and the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee medal.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat he has said that “ideas and words are more capable of reaching the truth and achieving peace.” To this end, he has traveled to a number of countries to emphasize the importance of achieving peace in the region. Abuelaish also believes that he must “call for and help Palestinians to achieve, even prior to peace, such things as love, respect, and the right to a dignified life.”

A Belgian state secretary has nominated Abuelaish for the Nobel Peace Prize, describing him as a “soldier of peace.” He also received honorary Belgian citizenship “in recognition of his efforts in service of humanity.”

Abuelaish was born in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza on Feb. 3, 1955. His family was expelled in 1948 from the Palestinian Al Hawj Village which is now part of Israel.

The Palestinian doctor, who is now teaching and living in Canada, said that he is not suing for money. “I have pledged that any compensation from the case will go to the Daughters for Life Foundation,” a Canadian charity he has established. The charity’s website said its aim is “providing quality education for young women of the Middle East to achieve lasting peace.”

Abuelaish has not made any specific financial requests in his lawsuit. However he told Arab News that he will not accept anything less than the compensation given to the Turkish individuals killed on the Mavi Marmara or the British cameraman shot by Israelis.

Press reports say that Israel apologized for killing nine Turks aboard the peace flotilla that was headed for the besieged Gaza and paid a $20 million in compensation.

The case will conclude on April 19. The real question is whether Abuelaish will be satisfied that justice has been served.

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