Vanunu's story -

The world's first nuclear inspector imprisoned for telling the truth

When Mordechai was released from solitary confinement in March 1998 Israel admitted he posed no threat to its security; yet his many applications for parole have been refused, because of his brave defiance and refusal to admit any guilt. Indeed, Mordechai's opposition to nuclear weapons remains steadfast and his cruel punishment has not broken his spirit.

Mordechai Vanunu was a technician at Dimona, Israel's nuclear installation, from 1976 to 1985.  He discovered that the plant was secretly producing nuclear weapons.  His conscience made him speak out and in 1986 he provided the London Sunday Times with the facts and photos they used to tell the world about Israel's nuclear weapons programme.  His evidence showed that Israel had stockpiled up to 200 nuclear warheads, with no debate or authorisation from it own citizens. 

On 30th September 1986, Mordechai was lured from London to Rome. There he was kidnapped, drugged and shipped to Israel. After a secret trial he was sentenced to 18 years for 'treason' and 'espionage' though he had received no payment and communicated with no foreign power.  He was held in complete isolation for 11 years, only allowed occasional visits from his family, lawyer and a priest, conducted through a metal screen.

Every Saturday for 11 years the Campaign has held a vigil near the Israel Embassy, in Kensington, from noon till 2 pm, to call for Mordechai's release, and to continue his work of telling the world about Israel's nuclear weapons and the dangers that they represent.

Join us at our vigil

Welcome Vanunu out of prison on April 22nd 2004!

VANUNU WAS FREED ON 21ST APRIL 2004
YET STILL REMAINS HELD IN ISRAEL AGAINST HIS WILL