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Criticism is not disloyal
More young Jews are recognizing the folly of the Israeli government’s behaviour. Jewish people feel pressure to support unconditionally Israel’s actions, and criticism is often treated as betrayal of our own people. But fear of ethnic disloyalty blinds us to the reality of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israeli military invasions or embargoes of Gaza will not force Palestinians to abandon their struggle for freedom, nor will they bring security to Israelis. Such tactics can lead only to escalations in violence and militarization in the region – ensuring bloodshed for everyone. Support for Palestinian rights thus need not come at the expense of concern for Israelis – in fact, advocating changes to Israeli policies that perpetuate war, anger, and resistance is the truest promotion of Israelis’ well-being. Recent surveys show that young Jews, unlike their elders, are increasingly alienated from Israel and less reflexively supportive of its policies. This is a sign of hope: Israel is not a house of worship, but a country like any another – and it should not be immune from criticism. Young Jews need to amplify their opposition to immoral and impractical policies that deny Palestinians equal rights, and foster debate in our communities. Our indifference otherwise puts to shame the legacy of our ancestors’ struggles for liberty and equality. We who are young Jews must demand that Israel heed the voices of brave Israelis, among them young ex-soldiers and refuseniks, calling for an end to the siege on Gaza and a permanent ceasefire. Israel should begin genuine peace negotiations that end the Israeli occupation of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, dismantle the annexation barrier and the illegal settlements, implement UN resolutions recognizing the rights of Palestinians, and guarantee Palestinian self-determination. We can no longer justify a system of oppression that promises continual destruction for Israelis and Palestinians alike. Emily F. Bitting Montreal Letter published in The Gazette, Montreal
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