The delegation to Libya is scheduled for two weeks from now, following an international conference in Rome of Jews of Libyan background. Deputy Knesset Speaker Kahlon, of Libyan background himself, will be representing Israel at the conference.
A central topic of the conference is compensation sought by those Jews who were expelled from Libya in the 1950s, '60s and '70s, leaving behind a wealth of property that was confiscated by the state or stolen by neighbors. In light of recent statements by Kaddafi and his son Sayyif Al-Islam in favor of compensatory payments to Jews who lost homes or property, representatives of the Libyan state have also been invited to attend the gathering. Presumably, the Libyan officials will be asked to present plans for paying out the compensation. Earlier this year, Kaddafi stated that Jews would have an option to receive compensation or another home, but not those who "seized Palestinian lands." He explained that one must differentiate between "Jews and Zionists."
Immediately after the conference, the delegates are to travel to Libya for touring and meetings with senior officials. As noted, Kaddafi himself is likely to meet with the expatriate group, as well, regardless of the presence of an Israeli parliamentarian among the guests.
A central topic of the conference is compensation sought by those Jews who were expelled from Libya in the 1950s, '60s and '70s, leaving behind a wealth of property that was confiscated by the state or stolen by neighbors. In light of recent statements by Kaddafi and his son Sayyif Al-Islam in favor of compensatory payments to Jews who lost homes or property, representatives of the Libyan state have also been invited to attend the gathering. Presumably, the Libyan officials will be asked to present plans for paying out the compensation. Earlier this year, Kaddafi stated that Jews would have an option to receive compensation or another home, but not those who "seized Palestinian lands." He explained that one must differentiate between "Jews and Zionists."
Immediately after the conference, the delegates are to travel to Libya for touring and meetings with senior officials. As noted, Kaddafi himself is likely to meet with the expatriate group, as well, regardless of the presence of an Israeli parliamentarian among the guests.