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Message from Dr. Hanan Ashrawi |
| "The call for the de-categorisation for Samar Alami and Jawad Botmeh, from the category A status has received wide support in the last three years. The British legal system must recognise that their status as terrorists is not acceptable under the provisions of international law. It is clear that such a slanderous label is connected solely to their nationality as Arabs. This in fact has caused them much suffering and injustice. The British legal system must recognise its position and must take all the facts into consideration. For the allegation that their release or de categorisation might be detrimental to the peace process have no reasonable grounds or substantive evidence. It is also apparent these allegations are blatantly erroneous and inconsistent with reality. Samar and Jawad have not in any way expressed their opposition to the current peace process; on the contrary they have given full endorsement to a just and peaceful resolution to the peace process. The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) has persistently supported their case and advocated their de categorisation. The PNA views with concern their case as a miscarriage of justice. The release of prisoners is a vital part of the peace process and would form a significant contribution to the public's confidence and support." |