Seven Israeli teenagers are refusing to serve in Israel's army because they object to Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. Known as the Shministim, they are all 18 or 19 years old, have been called up for military service but have refused to go, and are now in prison.

They deserve our full support for the brave stand they are taking against the occupation and in support of Palestinian rights. This year, our union's Annual General Meeting voted to support the Palestinians' claim for an independent Palestine alongside Israel, and to promote unity between working-class Israelis and Palestinians. The stand taken by the Shministim exemplifies the spirit of this policy.

The Shministim have asked campaigners around the world to let the Israeli government know we are watching, and that we support their courage. They are hoping to receive hundreds of thousands of postcards to be delivered to the Israeli Minister of Defense on December 18th, when they will hold a massive rally and press conference. They have asked every person who strives for justice to support them.

To read more about them and to put your name to a letter to the Israeli government, click here.

Thanks very much. Yours in solidarity,

Janine