The Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (IRESCO) had claimed that Israel had committed crimes against humanity in Gaza and West Bank. Previously, Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority had frozen communications with Israel over attacks taking place in both Gaza and West Bank. The accusation possibly comes after the assault on Gaza that had killed at least 100 people.
So far in protest, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria have dropped out and boycotted the book fair that is due to take place in Paris, France. Saudi Arabia is the most recent nation to do so.
IRESCO has also urged its members to boycott the fair which starts in 9 days on March 14.
Those who have organized this event say that this is to both honor literature from around the world along with promoting talks between the various cultures. For 2008, the book fair has honored 39 writers from Israel. They say that it was coincidental that this is the dawn of the 60th year where Israel had become an independent state.
The organizers have even said that the 39 honored writers from Israel actually support the idea of Palestine becoming an independent state.
However, some Muslim writers have their other reasons for boycotting the book fair other than Israel. One writer said there has been no attempt to invite an equal number of writers that are Palestinian.
Another said that it is indecent to have Israel as the guest of honor as it looks to be disrespectful to the Palestinians.
The book fair in Turin, Italy that is taking place in May is also going through a similar controversy.