The International Journal of Nautical Archaeology reports of a submerged monumental structure underneath the sea of Galilee, Israel.

From News.Com.au:

The mysterious rock pile is 10 metres high and 70 metres in diameter – about twice the diameter of Stonehenge. The basalt boulders weigh a total of about 60,000 tons.

Researchers believe the structure is a giant cairn, or rock pile that is often used to mark burials.

But its age and purpose are are not yet certain.

“The shape and composition of the submerged structure does not resemble any natural feature. We therefore conclude that it is a man-made and might be termed a cairn,” researchers wrote.

Fathi spoke about trade union solidarity and the global crisis. He explained how Palestine were requesting self government but the new prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was denying the opportunity even to talk.

“He is trying to force Palestinians to leave the country and talks of a new Jewish state,” said Fathi, who told of 60% levels of unemployment in Gaza and the apartheid wall. “There are 600 checkpoints and families are separated from each other.”

He explained that the Jews would have to move but they would not be able to rebuild because Israel refuses the movement of building materials into Palestine and that families have been split due to the apartheid wall. He concluded by thanking the conference for their hospitality and wished the PCS success in its activities.

Hana’s speech was very moving and had a profound effect on everyone I spoke to. She is a project officer in the women’s department of the PGFTU and she explained the unique difficulties of women living under occupation. She gave a very moving account of how she felt when she arrived in Brighton. After seeing the sea for the first time since she was 15 she wanted to run to the sea and take it in her arms, enjoy the scent and take it home to her children, who have only dreamed about the sea. As a Palestinian in the West Bank they do not have the freedom to see it. She concluded her speech with the following message:

Dear friends I will return to Palestine with the message, your message. The message of the people who think globally, the message of the people who act lovingly. So thank you once again for your solidarity, for making our lives more bearable, for raising our spirits. Long live solidarity between nations and citizens.

Following the speeches from the guest speakers, a lively debate ensued regarding a motion that condemned Israel’s attacks on Gaza last December and asking for solidarity. Speakers spoke up on behalf of Israel and Palestine. Hugh Lanning (Deputy General Secretary) pointed out that solidarity meant “their struggle is our struggle, a worker is a worker is a worker”. We should hold solidarity to all workers around the world, no matter what country they live in.

The full speeches can be viewed below: