Who Is Mordechai Vanunu? And Why Should You Care?

Mordechai Vanunu was an Israeli technician who blew the whistle on Israel's nuclear weapons program and was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his courageous act in 1986. He is due to be released this year but of late the word is that he will continue to be under some sort detention even though he has served his full term of which 11 1/2 years were in solitary confinement. There is an international campaign for his release. Consider signing the petition, writing a letter, sending some money, etc... at:

http://www.serve.com/vanunu/

Why should you support this character? Vanunu worked in a country that he emigrated to because of his beliefs. While serving in the IDF Vanunu became more and more troubled by the capacity of the Israeli nuclear weapons program which is reportedly able to produce around 200 weapons. He then began talking to the press about his experiences and was drugged and kidnapped in Italy by Israeli intelligence operatives and tried in a secret court.

I don't have a problem with countries having nuclear weapons but I do have a problem with the hypocrisy of the US and its allies when it comes to who CAN have them. Vanunu, I believe, exposed this program because of the obvious danger to millions that Israel's program represents. Let's not forget that since its inception Israel has continued to expand its borders, displace and abuse the indigenous population, invaded all of its neighbors and has pissed off probably 90% of the planet.

Vanunu should be celebrated as a hero and not be rotting in jail!