By
Lora J. Mackel
In an age of information overload , there are still a few issues that bring out strong passions. One of the primary issues still capable of eliciting emotions is the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Only the most apathetic world citizen is immune to feelings about this issue because it combines the powerful forces of religion, justice and aspects of imperial history. But regardless of which side emotions lie on, the fact remains that the United States still unconditionally supports the state of Israel with diplomatic backing and sizable foreign aid packages. Because of this backing, Israel is allowed to operate at a level above international law, without fear of punishment of the international community. But how do we, as a nation of justice and freedom loving individuals, justify our allegiance to a state with an egregious human rights record? Our country cannot give an answer that does not reek of hypocrisy.
Currently, every deed, statement and policy the U.S. has is unabashedly pro-Israeli. Our position, re-enforced through our aid and diplomatic shielding, clearly demonstrates to the world who we support. This puts our role as peace broker in extreme jeopardy, especially in dire situations like the last three weeks, when being even-handed is so crucial.
What is worse is the U.S.' support of Israel goes against nearly every international human rights treaty our country claims to back. This is because of Israel's outright disregard for human rights, as illustrated by their country's laws and practices.
In Israel, anyone who is suspected of terrorism can be arrested and held without trial for an indefinite period of time. Up until September, the torture of prisoners had full state support. Only recently, at the urgent behest of Israel's Supreme Court, was the policy toward torture changed. A loophole in the new law still allows for torture under certain conditions. Under Israeli law, children as young as twelve can be tried in military courts, and anyone who is remotely suspected of being a member of an organization disapproved of can be arrested and held without charge.
Palestinians living within Israel's borders also have to live with the indignity of having their movements restricted. At the will of the Israeli army, strict curfews can be enforced, and homes can be raided without warning. Everyday Palestinians who work outside strictly Arab areas must go through the intimidating Israeli Army checkpoints, closely scrutinized day in and day out. Palestinians also must comply with strict and discriminatory housing permits policies. Some, who do not have a permit or title, have their homes destroyed while the Israel government encourages Jewish settlement.
This is not to say that Palestinian and Arab resistance organizations abide by international treaties. Actions like last week's lynching of Israeli soldiers only show how threatened the Israeli position really is. But the Israeli position is backed by an official government, while the resistance groups are not. Both Israel's government and the resistance groups are guilty of inhumane treatment, the difference is that U.S. condemns the resistance groups, but funds the state of Israeli to the tune of $4.5 billion.
Injustices practiced by the state of Israel have not escaped the notice of the international community. Amnesty International and other human rights groups frequently criticize Israeli policy. The European Union and United Nations have issued proclamations condemning Israel, but even these powerful groups are unable to discourage even the most egregious behavior. Israel remains insulated so long as it is aligned with the most powerful country in the world: the U. S.
In our current political climate, Pro-Israel donors have far more influence than their pro-Palestinian counterparts. Political action committees like AIPAC, the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee give thousands of dollars each election cycle. Besides these committees, there are powerful individual donors who advocate for Israel with their contributions. The best and most prominent evidence of this deep influence can be found in Hillary Clinton's Senate race. In her capacity as first lady, Clinton was a strong supporter of Palestinian statehood. But now that she has a campaign to run in New York, Clinton has done a 360. She is not the only politician to do, and as long as donations drive policy she probably will not be the last.
Not all of this can be explained in purely political terms. Even in this modern age, American culture remains deeply distrustful of Arab culture. We do not understand Arabs, and it is easier to identify with Israelis. But our prejudices should be a point of shame, especially when it prevents advocating the values in which we believe.
As Americans, there are many questions regarding the Palestinian-Israel question which we cannot and should not answer. It is not for us to decide if Israel should exist: history has answered that for us. It is not for us to decide if their should be peace in the region: that is a matter that can only be worked out between Palestinians and Israelis.
We can, however, decide what values and behaviors to support with our money and diplomatic support. As a justice loving people, we should never openly support a government who shamelessly violates human rights
