ISM Tactics
ISM volunteers have resisted the building of the Israeli security fence designed to deter terrorists by establishing a protective barrier between Israel and the West Bank. Referring to it as the "Apartheid Wall," volunteers have tried to block construction of the security fence in some areas while attempting to tear certain sections down in others.
Using international volunteers, local Palestinian activists try to generate international attention to their cause. They reason that Western operatives attract more attention from Western countries and cause more problems for the Israeli government.
In the U.S., experienced ISM members recruit volunteers through various pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel groups and through the ISM's Web site. The ISM's "Information Pack," available on the Internet, provides basic information on getting involved in the anti-Israel cause and offers suggestions, including tips on speaking with the press. In one section, it suggests that "when possible say ETHNIC CLEANSING" when referring to "the expulsion of Palestinians from historic Palestine in 1948 as well as the current situation."
The packet also urges activists to "say RESISTANCE or RESISTANCE TO INJUSTICE [when] VIOLENCE is mentioned," and to "emphasize STATE TERRORISM [when] TERRORISM is mentioned."
Once volunteers arrive in Palestinian areas, they may publicize their actions by preparing statements, articles and diaries describing their experiences and activities in Palestinian areas. Often these are transmitted through the Internet.
Many ISM volunteers return to the U.S. after a stint with the group and describe their experiences in articles and at lectures at colleges, churches and other venues. ISM activists widely distribute their materials among a variety of anti-Israel groups that ISM believes would appreciate its propaganda value.