Marking 41 glorious years of struggle on the road to victory, towards the achievement of national liberation, numerous events and activities are taking place throughout Palestine, the Arab world and in exile in honor of the 41st anniversary of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. The PFLP was formed on December 11, 1967, and December 11, 2008, marks 41 years of struggle for self-determination, return and liberation. This is a continually updated list of reports of events and activities marking 41 years of the PFLP.
Ramallah
On December 6, 2008, the PFLP in Ramallah held a large march and festival to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the founding of the Front. The march was led by Palestinian flags and PFLP banners, as well as banners bearing slogans pledging to continue towards victory and liberation after 41 years of struggle and steadfastness.
Deputy General Secretary of the PFLP, Comrade Abdel-Rahim Mallouh, spoke at the event, focusing on the right of our people to resist occupation as a national duty for all of our people and a natural right. He demanded an end to the siege of Gaza and denounced the vicious racist settler attacks happening throughout the West Bank and Jerusalem, noting that they reveal the nature of the Zionist state.
He emphasized the importance of national unity, saying that our struggle is in a stage of national liberation and requires the commitment of all to liberation and to the Palestinian cause and the rights of our people, to resist occupation, to return home, and to self-determination.
He denounced the state terrorism of the occupier and called for the international community to end its silence and complicity with the crimes of the occupier and take action to implement the rights of the Palestinian people. He recalled the strong and glorious history of the PFLP, paying tribute to Dr. George Habash and national poet Mahmoud Darwish, as well as to all of the martyrs of the Palestinian revolution, and pledged to be faithful to the path of the martyrs and the prisoners, and to the Palestinian national cause.
Bassam al-Salhi, General Secretary of the People's Party, spoke, and paid tribute to the PFLP's work for national unity and national rights, and denounced the brutal attacks of the settlers upon our people. Mohammed Barakeh, speaking about our people in the occupied homeland of 1948, also paid tribute to the PFLP and its commitment to national liberation. He greeted the steadfast people in al-Khalil facing down the mobs of settlers and demanded the dismantlement of the settlements, and called for national unity and breaking the siege on Gaza.
Rafah
Under siege and in candlelight, the Martyr Basil Alizuri organization of the PFLP organized an event on December 12, 2008 marking the 41st anniversary of the Front, attended by a group of cadres, members and friends of the PFLP. The event began with a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs, followed by a speech by Comrade Mohammed Makkawi.
Comrade Makkawi reviewed the history of the front and its martyrs, stressing upon the need to follow along the path of the martyrs, led by the founder Dr. George Habash and Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa. He emphasized the importance of ending division and the tireless work of the Front to forge national unity. He also paid tribute to the prisoners and to Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat inside the Zionist jails, pledging to continue struggle and resistance.
The PFLP in Rafah governorate held a festival and mass rally marking the 41st anniversary of the founding of the Front on December 10, 2008, including the participation of many leaders, cadres and members of the Front. Comrades Kayed al-Ghoul, Jamil Mezher, Imad Abu Rahma, Mohammed Saqqa, members of the Central Committee of the PFLP, and many national leaders participated alongside masses of our people.
The festival began with a moment of silenve in memory of the martyrs. Comrade Iyad Awadallah welcomed attendees on behalf of the Front, saluting the founder Comrade Dr. George Habash and speaking of his memory, and added that this is the first anniversary marked by the Front in the absence of Dr. Habash, saying that he gave his honor, sacrifice and selflessness for the sake of Palestine. He also paid tribute to the great national leader Abu Ali Mustafa, as a model of sacrifice and martyrdom.
He saluted the Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, and their historic operation of October 17, 2001 when AAMB eliminated the Zionist racist extremist tourism minister Rehavam Ze'evi. He also recalled the martyrs of the Front, including Wadie Haddad, Ghassan Kanafani, Mohammed al-Aswad (Guevara Gaza), Walid al-Ghoul, Nidal Salameh, Basil Alizuri and all of the martyrs of the Palestinian people.
He also paid tribute to the General Secretary Comrade Ahmad Sa'adat, stressing that he is leading in the forefront of struggle with the people in the front lines against the Zionist enemy - the prisoners in the Zionist jails, and called for all of their freedom, including the freedom fighter Marwan Barghouthi, Dr. Aziz Dweik and all of the prisoners.
Comrade Awadallah highlighted the importance of national unity, comprehensive national dialogue and rebuilding the PLO in order to uphold the national cause of the Palestinian people for liberation, return and self-determination. He called for an end to political detentions, and demanded that Abu Mazen end the futile and harmful negotiations, saying they only provide a cover for the occupation and work in favor of the enemy, noting that our people are depending on unity and resistance and continuing struggle for our rights, noting that the negotiations pose a great danger to our people of undermining their fundamental rights.
Comrade Awadallah also denounced the "calm" and said it has turned into a sword upon the neck of our people and a justification for the crimes of the occupation, calling instead for a unified national front of the armed resistance to respond to the crimes of the enemy. He concluded by vowing to continue the struggle until the achievement of the objectives for which our martyrs died, in particular the right of return and self determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital on the road to a democratic Palestine on all of the land of Palestine.
Nafeth Ghoneim of the Palestinian People's Party addressed the rally,paying tribute to the PFLP and sending greetings to all of the prisoners of the Front, led by Comrade Ahmad Sa'adat and praised the Front's commitment to national unity, liberation and return. Comrade Abdul Salam Salameh of the Front's media committee als addressed the rally, speaking of the martyrs of the Front and the continuing dedication of the PFLP to their path. Comrade Salameh praised the Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades and pledged to uphold and continue the resistance.
The festival concluded with cultural performances, poetry and debkeh and honoring four children who share their birthday with the Front, December 11.
The PFLP in Rafah governorate also held a series of visits with the parents and families of martyrs and prisoners to mark both Eid al-Adha and the 41st anniversary of the Front on December 8, 2008, led by Comrade Imad Abu Rahma, member of the Central Committee of the PFLP. The delegation stressed that the Front will remain loyal to these families, who have paid the most dear of costs on the road to freedom and independence for Palestine and in defense of the national cause.
Gaza City
The PFLP in Gaza City organized a car caravan on December 11 and march throughout the streets of the city, bringing a large number of PFLP cadres and members waving Palestinian flags and PFLP banners, chanting slogans and demanding an end to the siege on Gaa. The caravan gathered from all regions of Gaza City, and stopped at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, playing songs calling for national unity and demanding the release of Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat and all of the prisoners of the occupation.
Comrade Dr. Maryam Abu Daqqa, member of the Political Bureau of the PFLP, said these events come to mark the 41st anniversary of the Front and to challenge the siege upon our people in Gaza. Comrade Osama Ahmad Haj, member of the Central Committee of the Front, welcomed people, stating that this annniversary comes in the absence of the founder Dr. George Habash, of the steadfast leader Comrade Abu Ali Mustafa, of the thinker and writer Comrade Ghassan Kanafani, of the leader Comrade Mohammad al-Aswad o the bride of Palestine, Comrade Maha Nassar and the countless parade of martyrs who have died for the freedom and independence of our people.
He called upon the people in these difficult times to confront the occupation, stressing that this is the key issue, and stated that the Front will remain firmly in the trench of resistance against the occupier to achieve our national objectives of return, self-determination and liberation. Comrade Dr. Zulfiqar Swairjo spoke, calling for national unity to defend our people, confront the occupier and break the siege.
The event concluded with a parade of children carrying candles and flowers, protesting the siege upon our people that is robbing our children of their childhood.
The Progressive Student Action Front, the student arm of the PFLP, organized a reception at its headquarters in Gaza City, marking the 41st anniversary of the Front, on December 10, 2008, attended by many leaders and members of the Front and student organizers.
Comrade Abu Numan Jiab, a leader of the PSAF in the Gaza Strip, said that this ceremony is held in honor of the sacrifices and history of the Front, which have not deviated over 41 years. Comrade Jiab said that students will mark the anniversary through events and activities, focusing on students' and workers' rights. Comrade Mohammed al-Ghoul, responsible for the PFLP's youth activities, spoke of the importance of cooperation between youth and students and the plan for youth and student led events marking the anniversary. The event also sent a message to comrade leader Ahmad Sa'adat and all of the prisoners of the Front struggling in the Zionist prisons. Hassan Shaheen of the Palestinian Progressive Youth Union also spoke at the reception, praising the PFLP and its history.
Also in Gaza City, the organization of the martyr Abu Ihab held an event marking the 41st anniversary of the PFLP on Wednesday, December 10. The rally was attended by a large number of leaders, cadres and members of the Front, national figures and many people.
Comrade Mohammed Daoud opened the event with a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs. Comrade Marwan abu Nasr (Abu Wadi), spoke on behalf of the Front, congratulating the PFLP and the people on the 41st anniversary. He spoke about the history of the Front, paying tribute to Dr. George Habash and Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, and sent greetings and tribute to Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat and all of the prisoners in the jails of the enemy.
Comrade Abu Saleh al-Jedian (Abu Zaher), spoke about the history of the front in the Palestinian national movement. The rally concluded with literary and artistic performances and a poem by Rola Abed, in addition to musical performances.
A welcoming ceremony was held in Gaza City on December 9, 2008, to begin the celebrations of the anniversary of the PFLP in Gaza. Comrade Dr. Rabah Muhanna, member of the Political Bureau of the PFLP, spoke, calling for an end to the "Calm" and to negotiations as harmful to the Palestinian cause, particularly in the face of the crimes of the Israeli enemy.
Comrade Muhanna said that negotiations with the enemy are futile and indeed harmful to the Palestinian cause, and spoke instead of the need for a united resistance front to continue resistance and confront the occupier and demand full implementation of all of the rights of our people, including the right to return and self-determination.
Comrade Muhanna demanded an end to the siege upon the Gaza Strip as an attempt by the occupation to further Palestinian division and attempt to force concessions upon our people. He called for action to end Palestinian division, saying it is deeply harmful to our people and our cause, and called instead for national unity to defend democratic freedoms and preserve our society and institutions in the face of attacks by the occupier.
Comrade Muhanna said that the struggle for national liberation needs all of our energy in the service of the Palestinian cause. He spoke about international changes and the current situation, speaking of the need to struggle against U.S. imperialism and the attempts of the U.S. to impose its globalized world order, and highlighting positive signs of crumbling U.S. hegemony that are new in the era following the collapse of the socialist block. He pointed to Russia's breaking free of U.S. control, the financial crisis facing the U.S. and the globalized capitalist system, and the important victories for the Left in the world, particularly in Latin America, and the international popular movements growing in the face of injustice, poverty and unemployment resulting from U.S. policies and globalization. Comrade Muhanna pointed to the importance of forging ties with Arab resistance forces as well, pointing to the resistance in Iraq and Lebanon confronting U.S. and Zionist imperialism.
Comrade Muhanna concluded by pledging that the Front would continue on its path of struggle for return and liberation and to defend the interests of the people, the working class, and struggle for national unity, democracy and progress.
Khan Younis
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, martyr Samir Salama organization, held a rally marking the 41st anniversary of the founding of the PFLP on December 12, 2008 in the central province of Khan Younis. The event was attended by many national leaders and representatives of Palestinian factions as well as masses of supporters, cadres and members of the Front.
The event began with the playing of the Palestinian national anthem and a tribute to the memory of the martyrs and to the courage of the freedom fighters. The families of the martyrs were welcomed and saluted, and the prisoners, particularly Comrade Leader Ahmad Sa'adat, as well as Marwan Barghouthi, Abdelaziz Dweik and others, were saluted amid calls for their freedom.
Comrade Abdel Raouf al-Farra spoke on behalf of the PFLP, recalling its history and commitment to struggle, and in particular highlighting the heroic operation of October 17, following in the historic footsteps of Comrade Wadi' Haddad and Comrade Mohammad al-Aswad, Guevara Gaza.
Comrade al-Farra highlighted the importance of national unity of the Palestinian people, not only in the West Bank and Gaza, but also in Palestine '48 and in exile, highlighting the importance of unity to confront the attacks on our people and threats to our rights, including the right to return.
He highlighted the danger of the useless and harmful negotiations with the enemy, that only provide cover to the occupier for its crimes and have stopped none of its assaults, including the imprisonment of 11,000 prisoners, the checkpoints in the West Bank, the building of settlements and the siege on Gaza. Comrade Farra said that instead we must demand the implementation of our rights, including the right to independent tate, to return and self-determination.
Comrade Farra called for an end to the so-called "calm" or "truce" with the enemy, and an end to all negotiations sponsored by the United States, saying that the Zionist enemy is a strategic partner of U.S. imperialism and that we must return to the framework of international legitimacy and the steadfastness and resistance of our people.
He highlighted the role of the PFLP and its responsibility to oppose Zionism and U.S. imperialism, saying that its outlook and clear vision make it the basis for the continuation of the revolution until victory. The event closed with the singing of national songs.
A rally marking the 41st anniversary of the PFLP took place on December 11, 2008 in Khan Younis, starting from the Grand Mosque, with the participation of national leaders and various factions, in addition to civil society organizations and institutions and thousands of cadres, members and supporters of the Front, led by Comrade Dr. Rabah Muhanna, member of the Political Bureau of the Front and its leader in the Gaza Strip.
The march roamed the city, condemning the crimes of the occupier and demanding an end to the siege on Gaza, calling for national unity, led by Palstinian flags and the banners of the Popular Front. Comrade Essam Shaath greeted the crowd, paying tribute to the martyrs of the Front and their leadership in armed struggle and revolution, greeting al-Hakim, Ghassan Kanafani, Guevara Gaza, Abu Ali Mustafa, and many more martyrs, saying that "Today we celebrate their will of steel and their unrelenting confidence and courage to see victory, on this 41st anniversary of the launch of the Popular Front."
Comrade Ghalban, member of the Central Committee of the Popular Front, spoke on behalf of the Front, stating that its history was written in the blood of martyrs and part of the liberation movement, achieving many accomplishments during its history, including upholding the unity of our people above all else. He said that "the side of the PFLP is always the side of the popular classes and the poor, women, workers and students. The PFLP brings up youth on love of the homeland and a culture of tolerance and commitment to resist the occupation until victory."
Comrade Ghalban continued to say that the PFLP is allied with all liberation movements in the world, who stand with us because the question of Palestine is a just cause, and all progressive people and movements in the world are with us. He added that Fateh and Hamas must end the division and uphold their national duty to instead focus on resisting occupation and building a united front against the occupier that can confront all the U.S. and Zionist projects.
He condemned the vicious settler attacks upon our people as well as the annexation wall devouring Palestinian land in the West Bank, and demanded an end to the Zionization of our eternal capital, Jerusalem, and an end to the continuing siege upon our people in Gaza.
Salem Muammar, member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Front, addressed the rally paying tribute to the PFLP and calling for national unity.
The Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, the armed wing of the PFLP, participated in the march, carrying equipment and Sumoud rockets, mortars and other light weapons.
The PFLP also held a reception marking the 41st anniversary of the Front on Wednesday, December 10 at the Union of Agricultural Work Committees in Khan Younis governorate. The event was attended by national figures and leaders, and members and leaders of social organizations in addition to hundreds of cadres, members and leaders of the Front.
The event began with a moment of silence for the martyrs of the Palestinian revolution, before Comrade Basil Al-Seikaly spoke, paying tribute to the imprisoned leader, Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat, and recalling 41 years of a glorious and strong history of struggle of our people.
Comrade Ibrahim Shahin (Abu Jihad), member of the Central Committee, spoke on behalf of the PFLP, saying that "in the name of our homeland, for which our people have sacrificed blood and lives, we greet the Palestinian revolution and pledge to continue until victory, as our people deserve a party capable of matching their steadfastness in all circumstances."
He emphasized the role of the PLO, calling for Palestinian national unity that puts the interests of the Palestinian people first, and preserves the cause of our martyrs and prisoners.
Talal al Zarifa, member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, spoke at the event on behalf of the Palestinian Left Front, paying tribute to the Front's 41st anniversary and sending greetings to Comrade Sa'adat and all of the comrades of the PFLP. Iyad Nasser spoke on behalf of the Fateh movement, stressing the need for national unity and an end to the siege upon Gaza.
Jabalya camp
The PFLP in Jabalya camp organized a car caravan on December 11, 2008, that later traveled to Beit Lahiya, marking the 41st anniversary of the Front. Cadres, members and supporters of the front traveled throughout the camp, waving Palestinian flags and PFLP banners, and chanting for Palestine, the PFLP, and the martyrs and prisoners of the Front and the Palestinian revolution.
In honor of the 41st anniversary of the launch of the Popular Front, the PFLP in Jabalya camp organized a visit to the martyrs' cemetery, with a group of members, cadres and supporters of the Front on December 7, 2008. The group laid wreaths on the graves of the martyrs, and stood in silence in memory of their lives. Comrade Abu Saleh al-Jedian spoke on behalf of the PFLP, hailing the sacrifices of the martyrs and greeting our people on Eid al-Adha and the 41st anniversary of the Front. He pledged that the Front will continue in the path of the martyrs who died for the homeland.
The PFLP in Jabalya camp also organized a soccer tournament to mark the 41st anniversary of the Front on December 5, 2008. 8 teams competed in the tournament, held at the Jabalya Youth Club among a large number of fans. The Martyr Mohammad Abul-Nasr Team took home the gold medal, and team captain Majid Gharabawi was also honored. The organizers also plan a series of sporting events including a tennis tournament, chess and a bicycle ride, to mark the anniversary.
In Jabalya, on December 11, 2008, the PFLP organized a rally and march to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the founding of the Front. Comrade Mohammad Touman and Comrade Abu Sulaiman Yahya, members of the Central committee of the PFLP, led the march, which was joined by many leaders, members and supporters of the PFLP, community elders, village leaders and people, and representatives of Palestinian factions.
Marchers rode on motorcycles and cars, carrying red flags and banners, chanting for national unity and against occupation, Zionism and U.S. imperialism. The marchers displayed photos of Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, the assassinated General Secretary of the PFLP, waved Palestinian flags and red banners, and chanted for Abu Ali, all of the martyrs, and the resistance fighters. The song "October 17" was played as youth participants danced debkeh.
The march traveled through the main streets of Jabalya, and concluded with a rally, where Comrade Abu Suleiman Yahya spoke, congratulating the people and the Front on the 41st anniversary and paying tribute to the martyrs and the prisoners of the Front, including Comrade Dr. George Habash, Comrade Abu Ali Mustafa, and Comrade Ahmad Sa'adat, the imprisoned General Secretary of the PFLP. He called for national unity and breaking the siege of Gaza, saying its objective is to force Palestinians from their land.
A massive festival and rally was held in northern Gaza on Friday, December 12, 2008, marking the 41st anniversary of the founding of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Comrade Jamil Majdalawi, member of the Political Bureau of the PFLP, presented the main speech at the event, which was attended by thousands of members, supporters, cadres and friends of the PFLP, civil society institutions, popular committees, unions, women's and student organizations, and political factions.
Comrade Majdalawi called for national unity, an end to negotiations with the occupier, breaking the siege and the continuation of resistance. The crowd waved Palestinian flags and PFLP banners, chanting for the freedom of the prisoners and the liberation of Palestine. Participants carried signs and pictures of Comrade Leader Ahmad Sa'adat, General Secretary of the PFLP, calling for his freedom and the freedom of all of the prisoners held in Zionist jails, and pledged to continue the struggle of the Front on the road to victory, return and liberation.
In addition, marking the anniversary of the Intifada and the 41st anniversary of the PFLP, a delegation visited farmers near the edge of Gaza on December 5, 2008, bordering the 1948 occupied homeland, to support the farmers and learn about the attacks of the occupation forces, including bulldozing of land and destruction of crops, in addition to the already devastating siege. The farmers stated that their farms previously employed about 4,000 people farming berries, but the siege has led to a significant decrease, and this number has become no more than 1,000, leading to significant unemployment. Furthermore, the farmers noted, the price per kilo of their berries was previously 22-25 shekels, but now is sold for 3 shekels per kilo.
The PFLP called upon all parties to open the crossings and enable farmers to export their products, noting that the European Union had agreed to import Gaza agricultural products, but that this export is now on hold and blockaded due to the siege.
Comrade Mohammad Sultan greeted the steadfast farmers and demanded action to end the siege and protect Palestinian agriculture and Palestinian production.
The PFLP in the central governorate of Gaza held a march and demonstration marking the 41st anniversary of the founding of the Front on December 11, 2008. The march roamed throughout the main streets, chanting slogans calling for national unity and continuation of resistance.
Comrades Jamil Mezher and Kayed al-Ghoul, members of the Central Committee of the PFLP, participated in the march, alongside many cadres and members of the Front and a numer of fighters of the Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades.
The march participants paid tribute to the lives of the martyrs and leaders of the Palestinian revolution, including Comrade Dr. George Habash, Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, Comrade Ahmad Sa'adat, the General Secretary of the PFLP, and the heroes of October 17, the comrades who carried out the successful operation against the criminal racist tourism minister Rehavam Ze'evi, and all the prisoners in the Zionist jails.
The march announced a series of events to coordinate the 41st anniversary aimed at community service, including a free medical day and a community soccer tournament.
As part of the ongoing events marking the 41st anniversary of the PFLP, the Front and the Democatic Medical Assembly in Beit Lahiya conducted various activities, including a visit to the martyrs' cemetery in Beit Lahiya on December 12, 2008 and meetings with the families of the martyrs. Comrade Abu Sultan spoke, congratulating the families of the martyrs and the historical struggles of the PFLP, speaking of the importance of remaining on the road forged by the martyrs of struggle until liberation.
He called for Palestinian unity and an end to the harmful environment of division, and paying tribute to the leaders and martyrs who always marched along that path, including Dr. George Habash, comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, Wadi Haddad, Abu Nidal Mesalami, Hassan Yousef Alayan, Tarek el-Shafei Jafaar el-Masri, Fadi Sultan Ali Omari, Hani Said al-Attar and thousands of other martyrs. The group placed wreaths on the graves of the martyrs.
The group also visited the families of martyrs and patients and hospital workers at Al-Awda and Kamal Adwan hospitals, distributing flowers. Comrade Mohammad Allan said that these events will continue, with the purpose and the goal of serving our people in light of the crisis caused by siege. Further plans include participation in olive agriculture and solidarity actions with berry farmers facing a crisis due to the siege imposed upon the Palestinian people.
Also in Beit Lahiya on December 12, a reception was held to mark the annivesary of the PFLP. Comrade Wael Neirab spoke at the event, reviewing the history of the Front, its founding, its operations and its leaders, recalling the leadership of Al-Hakim, Dt. George Habash and his revolutionary school and fellow leaders, including Comrades Leila Khaled, Wadi Haddad and Mohammad al-Aswad (Guevara Gaza), and those who have continued on their path, having grown up on the principles of those who have sacrificed and continue to sacrifice. The event sent a message to the prisoners, headed by Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat, of solidarity and continued dedication to struggle along their path. Comrade Neirab pledged to struggle for national unity and that the Front would remain true to the martyrs and the prisoners and the sacrifices of the bereaved and injured to establish a socialist, democratic Palestinian state.
A documentary film presenting the history of the PFLP through its 41 years of struggle was screened, followed by a mass march through the streets of the town.
The Walid Al-Ghoul organization of the PFLP held a series of events in Beit Lahiya in celebration of the 41st anniversary of the PFLP. A car and motorcycle caravan was held on Thursday, December 11, 2008, and the caravan went throughout the main streets of the town. In the evening, a mass rally and march was held, attended by massive crowds, marking the 41st anniversary.
Comrade Dr. Tayseer al-Sultan greeted the attendees on behalf of the PFLP, providing an overview of the 4 decades of struggle of the PFLP and calling for national unity in order to confront the occupier. A documentary film about the PFLP history, present and future was screened before a fireworks display.
The Al Fayez Zaanin organization of the PFLP in Beit Hanoun area organized a series of events and volunteer activities in honor of the 41st anniversary of the launch of the PFLP. On December 6 and 7, 2008, the organization held two days of visits to the families of martyrs and prisoners in which a large number of cadres, members and supporters of the PFLP participated. On December 9, 2008, the organization distributed aid and goods to the poor and needy of the region, and organized a volunteer action in which a large number of comrades of the PFLP cleaned and tended the cemetery in the city of Beit Hanoun.
On Thursday, December 11, the PFLP in Beit Hanoun organized a public festival, opened by Comrade Marcel Lidawi. Comrade Nasser Shabat spoke on behalf of the Front, recalling the martyrs and prisoners of the PFLP and the struggle over 41 years that continues toward victory. Comrade Shabat stressed the need for national unity as an irreplaceable strategic path, calling for comprehensive national dialogue, and of the importance of rebuilding and reestablishing a democratic and inclusive PLO as our sole legitimate national representative. The event also screened a documentary on the PFLP marking its 41st anniversary. Comrade Khalida Jarrar, member of the Political Bureau of the PFLP, addressed the audience by telephone, paying tribute to the 41st anniversary and calling for national unity. She pledged that the Front would remain faithful to the Palestinian cause and our national rights, including the right to return, self-determination, freedom of the prisoners, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in Deheisheh refugee camp held a march through the camp on December 11, 2008, marking the 41st anniversary of the launch of the PFLP, including large numbers of members and supporters of the Front. The march ended in a rally held at the entrance of the camp, where a number of speakers commended the historical and present role of the PFLP in resisting the occupation and building national unity. The speakers emphasized the importance of national dialogue, an end to political detentions, and ending the absurd negotiations with Israel.
A march after the rally went through the roads near the camp, led by Palestinian flags and banners of the PFLP, chanting slogans against the occupation and its crimes.In the evening, cars went through the streets of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour, carrying Palestinian flags, PFLP banners, and pictures of PFLP leaders and martyrs, including Comrade Dr. George Habash, Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, Comrade martyr Ghassan Kanafani and Comrade Ahmad Sa'adat.
The PFLP in the village of Awarta south of Nablus held a rally to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the Front on December 11, 2008, attended by many leaders, cadres, members and supporters of the Front in the area.
Comade Kamal Abu Zarifa spoke, stressing that the PFLP would continue in the struggle until liberation, calling at the same time for an end to internal division and for the prioritization of national interests and national unity. He condemned both the so-called "calm" in Gaza and "security cooperation" with the occupier in the West Bank.
A speech was also made on behalf of the Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, pledging to continue the struggle until the liberation of the land and calling for a united resistance front to confront the occupier.
The rally concluded with salutes to the leaders, prisoners and martyrs of the Front and of the Palestinian revolution, and debkeh performances and the reading of folkloric poems.
Several events were held marking the 41st anniversary of the Popular Front in the towns of Arraba, Ya'abut, Fahma and Kafr Ra'aid, near Jenin, where thousands attended a mass rally and evening festival which marched through the streets of Arraba. The streets were decorated with red banners and Palestinian flags, and public statements calling for national unity and the continuation of intifada and resistance were broadcast from mosque loudspeakers.
Participants carried flags and photos of the General Secretaries of the Front, Comrade Dr. George Habash, Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, and Comrade leader Ahmad Sa'adat inside the Zionist jails. A delegation visited the homes of martyrs of the Popular Front and distributed winter clothing to the families.
Comrade Salah Abu Jaafar saluted Al-Hakim, Abu Ali Mustafa, and the martyrs and leaders of the Palestinian revolution, stating that the PFLP "will continue on this path until we ahieve the dreams of our martyrs, our independence and our liberation." He called for an end to negotiations with the occupier and a focus on national unity, calling to close ranks in the face of the vicious settler attacks.
Ein el-Helweh Camp
The PFLP in Ein el-Helweh refugee camp in Lebanon organized a march and rally on December 9, 2008, marking the 41st anniversary of the Front. The march began at the center of the Palestinian Youth Organization in the camp, and was led by Palestinian flags and PFLP banners with the participation of delegations replresenting the Palestinian factions, unions, women's and youth organizations, institutions and civil society organizations, as well as the leadership, members, supporters and cadres of the Front in the camp and Sidon as well as the members of the Palestinian Youth Organization.
The PFLP in Sidon region laid a wreath at the memorial to resistance fighters at the tomb of the unknown soldier at the martyrs' cemetery, and marched, while chanting the slogans of the Front.
Comrade Zafer al-Khatib, member of the Central Committee of the PFLP spoke on behalf of the Front's branch in Lebanon, paying tribute to the founders of the PFLP, including Comrade Dr. George Habash, Comrade martyr Abu Ali Mustafa, Comrade martyr Ghassan Kanafani and paid tribute to all of the martyrs of the Palestinian resistance and the martyrs of the resistance in Lebanon, Palestine and around the world. Comrade Khatib said, "We stand today to celebrate the anniversary of the launch of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, in the presence of the martyrs, the conscience of our revolutionary struggle throughout history. We have identified from the outset our compass - towards Palestine - and continue our march toward Palestine, throughout history. We continue to stand against any abandonment or deviation from our cause, to reach our historic homeland." He called for an end to the dangerous and futile negotiations, as well as the "calm," calling for a united resistance force to confron the occupation and break the siege upon Gaza. He also spoke of the importance of continuing struggle for Palestinians in Lebanon, on the basis of the right of return to our homeland, Palestine.
He concluded by paying tribute to our besieged people in Gaza and our steadfast people in Al-Khalil facing down settler terror and all of the prisoners and martyrs, pledging to continue the struggle until victory and liberation.
The Front in Ein el-Helweh also held a ceremony to mark the 41st anniversary by kindling a torch marking the anniversary at a large public event, with lit candles and national songs played over loudspeakers, adorned with Palestinian flags and PFLP banners. The fighters of the PFLP paid tribute to the Palestinian flag, and all observed a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs of the PFLP, the Palestinian revolution and the Arab liberation movements.
The event was attended by representatives of all Palestinian political forces, civil society organizations and institutions, and popular committees and organization. Comrade Talal abu Jannous paid tribute to the heroism and resistance of the martyrs of our revolution, led by Dr. George Habash and comrade Abu Ali Mustafa, and called for the freedom of the prisoners held in the jails of the occupation, led by Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat. He paid tribute to the heroes of October 17, Comrades Ahed Abu Ghulmeh, Basil al-Asmar, Majdi Rimawi and Hamdi Qur'an and all of the Paestinian and Arab prisoners. He pledged that the Front will continue to remain faithful to the martyrs and to the commitment of our people to liberation and return.
Rashidiyeh Camp
In honor of the 41st anniversary of the launch of the Front, a celebration was held in the Rashidiyeh refugee camp in South Lebanon, in the presence of representative of Palestinian and Lebanese parties, national forces, civil society organizations and institutions, popular committees and a large crowd of members and supporters of the PFLP and people of the camp.
The celebration was led by Palestinian flags and pictures of the martyrs of the Front, the leaders Dr. George Habash and Abu Ali Mustafa, and the imprisoned Comrade General Secretary Ahmad Sa'adat.
Comrade Ahmad Murad, member of the Central Committee of the Front in Lebanon, spoke, saying that the anniversary is an occasion for the renewal of our pledge to raise the banner of struggle and resistance until we achieve the national objectives for all of our people, stressing that the enemy's brutality only intensifies our will and determination for victory.
He called for solid national unity on the basis of the Palestinian cause in order to confront the occupier, and for building the widest campaign to break the siege and blockade upon our steadfast people in the Gaza Strip.
Speaking of the Palestinian situation in Lebanon, he called for an end to any so-called security repression upon the Palestinian people and emphasized the importance of the rights of the Palestinian people in Lebanon, stressing absolute adherence to our right of return and total rejection of all projects of resettlement.
Representatives of Palestinian and Lebanese parties spoke before the event concluded with a torch-lighting ceremony and the singing of national songs.
The PFLP in Bourj el-Barajneh camp held a ceremony to mark the 41st anniversary of the Front honoring the families of the martyrs of the Front, attended by the families of the martyrs as well as many PFLP cadres, members, and supporters in the camp. Comrade Samih spoke on behalf of the Front in the Beirut area, stressing the values of respect for the martyrs and the principles of the martyrs for which they gave their lives. He stressed the importance of national unity and breaking the blockade of Gaza, pointing also to the settler assault on Al-Khalil and the continued settlement project. He called for action from the Arab, Muslim and international community, condemning the shameful silence. The event closed with debkeh and songs of the Popular Front and the Palestinian revolution.
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