Jim Abourezk is a former Democratic senator from South Dakota. His recent article on the ways in which the Zionist lobby operate in the US is essential reading. It also proves how vulnerable the lobby is to external pressure:
The pro-Israel lobby does most of its work without publicity. But every member of Congress and every would-be candidate for Congress comes to quickly understand a basic lesson. Money needed to run for office can come with great ease from supporters of Israel, provided that the candidate makes certain promises, in writing, to vote favorably on issues considered important to Israel. What drives much of congressional support for Israel is fear – fear that the pro-Israel lobby will either withhold campaign contributions or give money to one’s opponent.
As Israel’s policies are largely dictated from Washington, it’s the duty of the Jewish community to demand a more accountable Jewish state. Simply put, that must be a non-Zionist entity.