Rabbis’ group wins Japanese peace prize

Geneva
Rabbis for Human Rights of Israel, a Jerusalem-based organization that promotes peace and social justice for Israelis and Palestinians, is to be awarded the 23rd Niwano Peace Prize, the Japan-based Niwano Peace Foundation has announced.

The executive director of Rabbis for Human Rights, Rabbi Arik Ascherman, has faced the wrath of Israeli authorities and prosecution in Israeli courts by working with Palestinians to protect their property and homes from expropriation and demolition, sometimes to make way for Israeli settlers, under Israeli occupation.

The presentation ceremony of the Niwano Peace Prize will take place in Tokyo on May 11.  In addition to the award certificate, Rabbis for Human Rights will receive a medal and 23 million yen ($195,000 US).