Thursday 30th June 2016 represented a day of mixed feelings for Israel

Early in the day, a Palestinian entered the home of an Israeli family and slew a 13 year old girl in her sleep. A few hours later, there was another stabbing incident on the costal city of Netanya.

While that was going on, the British Labour Party released its report on anti-Semitism in its ranks. Led by Sami Chakrabarti, it concluded that “too much clear evidence of minority hateful or ignorant attitudes” amongst members. Fair enough. However, party leader, Jeremy Corbyn, when commenting about the findings, made his central point the equivalence of Israel with ISIS!

While wondering if Corbyn realises (or cares) that Jews pray in the direction of Zion in Jerusalem, it did not take long for the leaders of the   Jewish community to dismiss outright such a statement. Yet if Corbyn’s language was not vile enough, his apparent supporters were caught on camera uttering further anti-Semitic remarks…… and never a mention of a few words for the wretched family, whose daughter had just been stabbed to death ‘in the name of peace’.

In total contrast, a few hours later, I was on my way to take part in the 3rd Tel Aviv Whisky Live event. Thousands attended, of every creed and colour. And arguably the most popular stands were those with reps – whisky ambassadors – from the distilleries from the British Isles.

For example, Tomintoul had an excellent display, and I admit to being pleased with my tasting their 12 year old malt. What I found particularly interesting was their understanding of the kosher laws regarding this very special drink, an issue that most seem very obscure to the Speyside team. Similarly, I was delighted to learn about Teelings single malt, whose base is in the heart of Dublin, Eire. And to be honest, I left with a very healthy looking bottle of heavily peated Jura.

The point is that these companies and their competitors and fully engaged now in the Israeli market. They look beyond the hypocrisies and misjudgments of people like Corbyn and fellow politically correct animals – who would advocate people to boycott such an event.

Spiritually, and in more ways than one, the distilleries are simply working with the Jewish nation, treating the local populace just like any other country. Which raises the question as to what sinister issue is preventing Monsieur Corbyn from doing the same?