An 18-year-old Israeli pacifist has asked for political asylum in Norway, official circles announced here today. The youth, Yuval Ronen, arrived here on a tourist visa from Sweden. He faces a two-year jail sentence in Israel for refusing to serve in the armed forces. Israeli law does not allow for conscientious objection.
Ronen’s application has been turned over to the Ministry of Justice which must decide on the issue. Officials here doubt that his request will be granted as Norway does not want to further deepen its rift with Israel caused by the arrest of two Israelis believed to be involved in the murder last month of a Moroccan citizen, Ahmed Boushied.
Talking with reporters here this morning. Ronen accused the Israeli government of “waging an imperialist war” in the Middle East. “I refuse to persecute people or chase them from their homes and I also refuse to bomb political opponents.” Ronen said.
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