Aaron Barnea has been active in IFWEA for many years, as General Secretary and currently as a Vice-President. Recently Aaron’s son, Noam was tragically killed in Lebanon whilst serving in the Israeli Defence Force. IFWEA and its affiliates have sent their condolences to the Barnea family, and stand in solidarity with them as they campaign for the withdrawal of Israel from Lebanon.

The Barnea family have always been politically active, participating in demonstrations for peace and signing up for movements which called for a withdrawal of Israel from Lebanon. Aaron now takes up this call with even greater commitment, making the death of his son a political issue. He has appeared on national television, radio and written a letter to the Lebanese President Emil Lahoud. "My son was a brilliant young man," Aaron wrote. "He never believed in the aims of the war in Lebanon. I am writing to you because I believe I have the moral right to do so". The letter promised Lahoud that the Barnea family would continue to fight for an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, but called on the Lebanese President to make a similar commitment to peace.

Aaron is angry that Brigadier Giora Inbar, former commander of the South Lebanon liaison unit, only recently spoke in favour of a withdrawal from Lebanon. "That man, who is possessed by an ego trip, admits that he was wrong. He sent soldiers to their deaths because he was wrong and now he demands ‘immediate’ withdrawal from Lebanon. Whats ‘immediate’? Our Noam won’t be able to enjoy the fruits of his immediate withdrawal". The family are also condemning of Chief of Staff Shaul Mofaz who should "...face the government and tell the truth - that we have no business being there".

Aaron says his activity "tries to give some meaning to Noam’s death, to reach something that is beyond his own personal death. I have a feeling of endless yearning, that cannot be endured. We made a crazy sacrifice, futile and unjust. It is a feeling of terrible weakness".

To Aaron, and his family, we wish you strength in your time of trial.