The lack of imagination by the Israeli left

American, Jewish journalist and activist Joseph Dana, writing from Israel:

Israelis have the unique position (read privilege) to support the popular non-violent struggle of Palestinians in the West Bank against the occupation, settlements and separation wall. Palestinians have extended an open hand to Israelis to join their struggle which takes place only one hour from Tel Aviv. Many Israelis have answered this call but it has only been a drop in the sea compared with the number of people that harbour ”˜left’ opinions about the occupation and prospects for co-existence through grassroots work. Shiekh Jarrah had the opportunity to energize these people with ”˜left’ opinions and lead them in the direction of genuine solidarity with Palestinians struggling against the crippling occupation. Yet, the movement has made the decision to focus energy on exhibiting ”˜solidarity’ in places where Palestinians by and large can’t enter. It comes down to one’s definition of solidarity.

Text and images ©2024 Antony Loewenstein. All rights reserved.

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