Muslim Scout group investigated for 'endorsing the destruction of Israel'

A branch of the Scout Association shared artwork with the message “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” after encouraging children to paint for Gaza. Muslim Scout Association, which is a branch of the wider association that operates across the UK, encouraged children to “show Palestinian children love and support” during a painting challenge in conjunction with an Islamic charity.

Pictures displayed on Instagram in December, shows artwork containing the controversial message “from the river to the sea”, which is seen by many as calling for the elimination of Israel, the world’s only Jewish state. The Scout Association has now launched an investigation into the images after being alerted to them by the Henry Jackson Society, a counter-extremism think tank. The complaint reads: “The phrase ‘from the river to the sea’ has been criminalised in Germany and parts of Australia because of its association with Hamas and its perceived endorsement of the destruction of the State of Israel.

“Given the slogan’s highly inflammatory nature, we are deeply concerned that children’s artwork bearing it has been circulated by a Scout-affiliated organisation.

“The Scout Association has an important responsibility to ensure that all young people feel welcome and included, regardless of their background or faith.”

In one drawing, the Al-Aqsa mosque can be seen accompanied by the “Palestine will be free” phrase next to a flower in the colours of the Palestinian flag, red, green, white and black.

Another appears to show an outline of the state of Israel, with the phrase once more written around it, as well as a giant watermelon over the top. Watermelons have become known as a visual emblem of Palestinian identity due to the colours matching those of the Palestinian flag.

The Scout Association claims to oppose all forms of prejudice and discrimination in its code of conduct and has committed to being politically neutral.

It states: “While engaging with current social issues, some of which may be controversial and have a political dimension, members must not endorse any political party or candidate when representing The Scout Association.”

Emma Schubart, a research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, told the Telegraph: “Scouts should unite young people from every background – not expose them to slogans that have been linked to a proscribed terrorist group.

“The Scout Association cannot simply ignore this. It needs to explain whether children’s artwork featuring ‘from the river to the sea’ is compatible with the values it expects every Scout group to uphold.

“If it believes this is acceptable, it should say so. If it does not, it should explain what action it will take.”

In response to the allegations, the Scout Association said: “We are aware of this complaint and take the concerns raised very seriously.

“We have a robust process in place to ensure that matters of this nature are investigated thoroughly, impartially and fairly.

“The complaint is currently at an early stage, and we are in the process of establishing the relevant facts.”

The Muslim Scout Association has been approached for comment.