PDF Summary:On Palestine, by Noam Chomsky and Ilan Pappé

In On Palestine, Noam Chomsky and Ilan Pappé offer a counter-narrative to prevailing perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They challenge the conventional portrayal of the conflict as a clash between equal national ambitions, arguing that this obscures the settler-colonial nature of Zionism and Israel's consistent expansion and control over Palestinian territories.

The authors examine the conflict's roots in Zionist settler colonialism, the ongoing occupation and fragmentation of Palestinian land, and the inadequacy of the "peace process". They advocate for a single democratic state in the historical region of Palestine, dismantling colonial structures and eschewing ethnic exclusivity over equal civil rights for all.

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Israel continues to exert dominion over the territory, imposing a system of separation, and consistently annexes land within the West Bank.

The authors argue that Israel's tactics in the West Bank are designed to solidify its control and concurrently diminish the Palestinian population. The writers contend that these measures constitute a system akin to apartheid, methodically stripping people of their rights, alongside a slow-moving genocide, driven by the conviction of inherent superiority of the Jewish population and their exclusive entitlements.

Israel's persistent settlement growth and the uprooting of Palestinian populations have fragmented the West Bank, breaking it into disconnected parts.

Chomsky and Pappé examine the significant growth of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a trend that began after 1967 and was backed by the United States. They underscore the strategic methods employed to establish colonies and the necessary support systems, such as alternative routes and security barriers, designed to isolate communities in Palestine and obstruct their movement and development. The authors detail Israel's tactical plans to consolidate control and break up important areas through the expansion of Jerusalem, intensifying settlement expansion within the Jordan Valley, and constructing passageways to connect remote settlements throughout the region.

Other Perspectives

• Some settlements have been dismantled over the years as part of peace negotiations or Israeli court decisions.
• Financial support for settlements is not directly provided by the U.S. government but may come from private entities within the United States.
• The creation of security barriers and alternative routes might be seen as a response to specific security incidents or threats, rather than a blanket strategy to isolate communities.
• Some international legal experts argue that the settlements do not necessarily break up the West Bank but rather reflect disputed interpretations of international law regarding the status of the territories.
• The expansion of Jerusalem could be viewed as a response to natural population growth and urban development needs rather than a deliberate tactic to fragment the West Bank.
• Some may point out that economic development in the region necessitates some level of construction and expansion, which could be conflated with settlement intensification.
• The construction of passageways could be argued as necessary for providing essential services and infrastructure to communities that would otherwise be isolated.

Israeli policies in the territories under their control, including the demolition of homes, annexation of land, and restrictions on travel, constitute a deliberate and progressive strategy aimed at erasing the Palestinian presence.

Pappé describes Israel's strategy in the territories under its control as an intentional method to diminish the quality of life for Palestinians, driving them to a state where their foremost worry is basic survival. Pappé argues that this strategy is characterized by the relentless curtailment of essential liberties, constant threats of possible attacks, and the deliberate strangulation of Palestinian economic life. He underscores the persistent pattern marked by the demolition of houses, annexation of territory, denial of building permits, and imposition of severe travel restrictions, which collectively demonstrate the unyielding expropriation of possessions and resources.

Practical Tips

• Create a discussion group with friends or family to talk about current events related to security and liberty. This can help you understand different perspectives and form a more nuanced view of the trade-offs involved. During these discussions, you might explore hypothetical scenarios, such as what measures you would accept in a crisis, and compare them with historical examples where liberties were restricted.
• Start a blog or social media page dedicated to discussing the effects of urban development on your community, focusing on personal stories and local news. This platform allows you to raise awareness and engage with others on the topic, potentially influencing public opinion and local policy decisions.
• Use technology to simulate the benefits of travel for strategy development. Explore virtual reality experiences that can provide cultural insights or historical knowledge without leaving your home. This could involve using VR to 'visit' historical sites for educational purposes or participating in online international forums to gain diverse perspectives on global issues.
• Create a checklist of common reasons for permit denial to preemptively address potential issues in your application. This proactive approach can save you time and increase the likelihood of approval. For instance, if permits are often denied due to insufficient environmental impact assessments, ensure you have a thorough assessment included in your submission.
• Support businesses that are affected by travel restrictions by purchasing their products online. Look for online marketplaces or direct websites that sell goods produced in regions with severe travel restrictions. By buying their products, you contribute to their economy and gain a tangible connection to the people and their circumstances.
• You can explore the impact of resource expropriation by starting a journal to track how often you borrow or share items with others and the outcomes of these exchanges. This could involve noting down when you lend a book to a friend or when you use a community tool-sharing program. Reflect on how these actions affect your relationships and sense of community.

Israel's strategic objective, achieved by manipulating the peace talks, aimed to fragment the Palestinian territories, effectively isolating Gaza from the West Bank, which in turn hindered Palestinian communication and their interactions with the international community.

Chomsky and Pappé argue that after the Oslo Accords, a central goal of Israeli policy was to foster division and maintain a distinct separation between Gaza and the West Bank. Chomsky and Pappé argue that the intentional division of the two areas is designed to thwart the Palestinian pursuit of statehood by hindering the creation of a viable Palestinian nation and solidifying Israeli control over important regions.

Chomsky underscores that Gaza serves as the sole portal for Palestine to interact with the wider world. Israel's approach of separating Gaza from the West Bank might result in the creation of a Palestinian state confined to the West Bank, dependent on Israel's goodwill, and vulnerable to its influence. The writers contend that, under the guise of seeking a peaceful solution through conversation, Israel has effectively achieved its goals of fostering disunity and conflict.

Other Perspectives

• The Oslo Accords were a result of mutual agreement, and the subsequent separation of Gaza and the West Bank might reflect the complex realities on the ground, including the need to address different governance and security situations in the two areas.
• It could be posited that the primary obstacle to Palestinian statehood is not the territorial division but the lack of consensus on key issues such as the status of Jerusalem, security arrangements, and the right of return for Palestinian refugees.
• The city of Ramallah in the West Bank serves as the administrative capital of the Palestinian Authority and is a key hub for diplomatic activity and international aid, suggesting that Gaza is not the sole portal for international interaction.
• The idea of a state being confined to the West Bank does not necessarily imply vulnerability or dependency, as statehood could come with a range of diplomatic, economic, and security strategies to mitigate such concerns.
• Some may argue that Israel's primary goal is to ensure the safety of its citizens and that any measures taken in the peace talks are to secure this objective, rather than to intentionally create conflict.

The evolution and advancement of the Palestinian national movement shape the political landscape.

The authors acknowledge the intricate nature of the socio-political environment pertaining to Palestine, emphasizing the importance of worldwide unity that steers clear of inadvertently reinforcing divides or maintaining the status quo.

The division of Palestinian leadership, with the governance of Gaza under Hamas and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority's control, has considerably weakened their collective resistance and unity.

Chomsky and Pappé recognize the profound political rifts within the Palestinian community, particularly the persistent division marked by Hamas's administration in Gaza contrasted with the Palestinian Authority's dominion over the West Bank, under the sway of Fatah. The authors argue that this division has hindered the formation of a unified national movement and has provided Israel with a credible pretext to avoid meaningful discussions with Palestinian representatives. The writers highlight the danger that external powers, such as the United States, might exploit these divisions to further their own goals, thereby obstructing the Palestinians' capacity to determine their own destiny.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a cause that requires collaborative effort, such as a community clean-up or a food drive. Look for opportunities where teamwork is essential and where the success of the project depends on the participants working together harmoniously. This hands-on experience will give you a practical understanding of how unity can amplify the impact of collective efforts.
• Enhance your empathy and perspective-taking by engaging in role-playing exercises with friends or family. Assign roles that represent different political factions within a community, and have each person argue their assigned perspective. This activity will help you grasp the emotional and logical underpinnings of political rifts, similar to those within the Palestinian community, and can improve your ability to navigate and mediate conflicts.
• Start a book club focused on geopolitical themes to foster a deeper understanding of international relations among your peers. Each member could bring a different news article or case study to discuss, and together you could explore how external powers might be influencing the events described, encouraging critical thinking and awareness.

Activist initiatives at the community level, including the campaign for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS), have emerged to challenge the conduct of Israel within its occupied territories and beyond.

The authors acknowledge the emergence of bottom-up movements, notably the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) campaign, as signs of revitalized attempts to confront Israeli policy. They scrutinize the movement advocating for economic and political non-cooperation with detailed and nuanced viewpoints. Chomsky expresses concern that while the academic boycott is well-intentioned, it could unintentionally distract from Israel's injustices and elicit negative responses from Western scholars, which may hinder the advancement of Palestinian entitlements. He suggests promoting boycotts that the general public can readily grasp and participate in, such as refraining from buying products made in the territories where settlements are located.

Ilan Pappé views the BDS movement as a powerful tool to challenge Israel's impunity and shift the attitudes of people worldwide. He argues that the success of the BDS movement in attracting supporters and changing the discourse among academics is essential for challenging the acceptability of discriminatory actions undertaken by Israel and for generating impetus for significant change.

Practical Tips

• You can research and compile a personal directory of businesses and organizations that align with your values for informed purchasing decisions. Start by identifying key issues that matter to you, then use online databases, social media, and news articles to find companies that either support or oppose these issues. Keep this directory updated and refer to it when making purchasing decisions to ensure your spending reflects your principles.
• You can deepen your understanding of global injustices by curating a diverse news feed. Start by subscribing to news outlets and journalists from different regions and political perspectives, especially those from the areas experiencing the injustices you're interested in. This will give you a more nuanced view of the issues at hand, beyond the specific case mentioned.
• Opt for community-based financial decisions by choosing to bank with local credit unions or ethical banks that have transparent policies regarding their investments. Investigate where your bank invests its money and consider switching to an institution that avoids funding activities you disagree with.
• Create a blog or social media page that highlights lesser-known academic contributions to social movements. By curating content that showcases diverse perspectives and breakthroughs in the field, you can help shift the focus and elevate the discourse to include a broader range of voices and ideas.
• You can educate yourself on product origins by using barcode scanning apps to check where products are manufactured and by whom. When shopping, use these apps to scan items and learn about their origins. If a product is from a region or company you wish to avoid due to discriminatory practices, look for alternatives. This small step helps you make informed decisions aligned with your values.

The emergence of new forms of resistance and organization has been propelled by the lack of a robust political leadership among Palestinians.

The writers argue that the weakening of established Palestinian national structures, the deficiencies exhibited by the Palestinian Authority throughout the Oslo era, and persistent internal divisions have compelled Palestinians to explore fresh strategic directions and develop new forms of protest. Pappé emphasizes the need to create a broader and more encompassing political structure for Palestinians that integrates not only individuals within the existing political boundaries but also those scattered abroad, Palestinians with citizenship in Israel, and those living under occupation. He regards the rise of initiatives driven by the community and the growing cooperation between various organizations and countries as positive signs of a changing political landscape.

Chomsky emphasizes the importance for global advocacy groups to focus on persuading the United States to cease its unwavering support for Israel, recognizing the challenges faced by the Palestinian people. He argues that a shift in US policy is crucial for creating the conditions for a just and sustainable resolution to the conflict.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal learning project where you study historical and contemporary movements that have thrived without robust political leadership. Use online courses, podcasts, and articles to educate yourself on the strategies they employed, the challenges they faced, and the outcomes they achieved. This self-guided study will enhance your ability to recognize and understand the emergence of new forms of resistance and organization in various contexts.
• Cultivate a habit of writing reflective essays or journal entries on how communities or organizations you're part of are responding to challenges. Focus on identifying any shifts in strategy or leadership and consider what lessons can be learned from these changes. This practice can sharpen your analytical skills and help you recognize the signs of structural change in various contexts.
• Engage in constructive dialogue by initiating conversations with people who have different viewpoints on the topic of protest. Approach these discussions with the intent to listen and understand rather than to persuade, which can lead to a broader understanding of the complexities involved in protest movements and the reasons behind various approaches.
• Improve your family dynamics by establishing a 'family council' where each member, regardless of age, has a voice in decision-making. Schedule regular meetings to discuss plans, resolve conflicts, and distribute chores. This approach can help overcome internal divisions by giving everyone a stake in the family's organization and well-being.
• Consider volunteering with organizations that work with Palestinian communities. Look for non-profits that focus on cross-community collaboration and offer your time to support projects that bring together Palestinians from different regions. This could involve remote assistance, such as helping with website updates or translating documents, allowing you to contribute without needing specialized skills.
• Create a personal blog or vlog series highlighting successful cooperative efforts between organizations. Use your platform to interview representatives from various groups, sharing stories of collaboration and the positive outcomes that resulted. This can inspire others to seek out partnerships and recognize the value of working together across organizational boundaries.

Exploring various strategies for the impractical two-state suggestion, which emphasize terminating colonial activities, altering the administration, and seeking a single, integrated approach to statehood.

Chomsky and Pappé contend that both the idea and implementation of a two-state resolution are inherently flawed and not feasible. They champion a revolutionary strategy that goes beyond mere land partition, supporting measures for decolonization, reshaping the political terrain, and establishing a single, democratic state that spans the entire historical land known as Palestine.

Proposing a divided national solution is neither practical nor morally sound.

Pappé argues that the concept of creating two distinct states has essentially facilitated Israel's tightening control over Palestinian territories, resulting in circumstances that resemble apartheid. He challenges the notion that partition can ever be a just solution to a conflict rooted in settler-colonialism and dispossession.

The concept of creating two distinct states has served as a justification for the continuous expansion of Israeli settlements, resulting in Palestinians being restricted to segregated enclaves.

The writers believe that the continuous talks and the idea of a two-nation solution have merely acted as a smokescreen, enabling Israel to continue expanding its illegitimate settlements and to consolidate its control over strategic regions in the West Bank. Israel, while outwardly advocating for the creation of two distinct states, has deliberately extended negotiations, thus creating conditions that make the realization of a viable Palestinian state nearly impossible. The authors view the ongoing enlargement of settlements, the erection of the separation wall, and the division of the West Bank into isolated regions as indicators of this misleading approach.

Practical Tips

• Engage in a creative writing exercise where you imagine and write a short story set in a future where a current territorial dispute has been resolved. Consider the factors that led to the resolution and the role of settlement expansion in the narrative. This will help you explore the long-term consequences of such actions and their impact on the people involved.
• You can deepen your understanding of geopolitical issues by following and analyzing real-time data on settlement expansions. Use online tools and databases that track land use changes in conflict regions to observe trends that align with political statements and promises. For example, if a new round of peace talks is announced, monitor these resources to see if there's a corresponding change in settlement activities.
• Develop a deeper understanding of territorial negotiations by creating a board game that simulates land acquisition and control. Design the game with various stakeholders, each with different goals and resources, requiring players to strategize and negotiate to expand their territory. This hands-on experience can provide insights into the dynamics of real-world territorial negotiations.
• Engage in virtual exchange programs to connect with individuals living in conflict zones. Platforms like Soliya or Shared Studios offer opportunities to have conversations with people from different parts of the world, including areas affected by territorial disputes. This direct interaction can provide personal insights into the realities of those living with the consequences of such policies.
• Start a personal "Barrier Impact Journal" to document and reflect on the barriers you encounter in your own environment. This could be social, economic, or physical barriers that you notice in your daily life. The act of writing them down can help you become more aware of the subtle ways in which barriers affect people. For instance, you might note how gated communities create a sense of separation or how socioeconomic status can lead to educational barriers.
• You can deepen your understanding of geopolitical divisions by creating a visual map of your local community, highlighting areas with different socioeconomic statuses. Use free online mapping tools to color-code your neighborhood based on income, education levels, or other available data. This exercise will help you visualize how divisions can occur even on a small scale and foster a better understanding of the impact of segregation.

The partition that aimed to create separate nations for Jews and Palestinians has acted more as a colonial endeavor rather than a fair settlement, resulting in the displacement and marginalization of Palestine's native population.

Pappé staunchly argues that the idea and implementation of a two-state resolution fundamentally perpetuates the unjust uprooting and relocation of Palestinians as part of an ongoing colonial effort. He contends that dividing territory between two entities is inherently fraught with issues, particularly when such division leads to the establishment of a state that adversely affects the other group. The model of partition discussed by Pappé perpetuates a power disparity favoring Israel, while overlooking the profound historical grievances and the ongoing suffering caused by the conduct of Israel.

Other Perspectives

• The partition plan initially sought to provide equitable division of land based on demographic distribution and ownership, which challenges the notion that it was solely a colonial endeavor.
• Some argue that the partition has also led to the establishment of a sovereign state for the Jewish people, who have faced historical persecution and displacement themselves.
• The adverse effects on one group resulting from partition can be mitigated through international oversight, economic support, and legal protections for minorities.
• The power disparity can also be seen as a consequence of the broader geopolitical context, including the support of Western powers for Israel, rather than the partition model itself being the primary cause.
• The ongoing conflict and suffering are the result of a multifaceted and protracted dispute, where multiple wars, security concerns, and failed peace processes have contributed to the current situation.

Efforts to foster peace through conversation have yet to effectively address fundamental issues including the creation of colonial settlements, land appropriation, and the denial of Palestinian rights, as the quest for a solution involving separate states for the two peoples remains unfulfilled.

The authors present a thorough examination, highlighting that the discussions following the Oslo Accords failed to address the fundamental issues at the heart of the conflict. They argue that while the accords were portrayed as a major step towards peace, they actually endorsed and legitimized Israel's control over the territories where Palestinians live.

Pappé argues that the so-called "peace process" failed to address the core issues related to colonial settlement, land ownership, and the return of Palestinian refugees. Israel has managed to oversee Palestinian resources and dictate the daily lives of Palestinians while avoiding substantial concessions or accountability.

Context

• The concept of a two-state solution refers to the idea of establishing an independent Palestinian state alongside the state of Israel, based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.
• The Oslo Accords lacked strong enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance, leading to accusations that Israel could violate agreements without facing significant consequences.
• The Accords established the Palestinian Authority (PA), granting it limited self-governance in certain areas. However, the PA's powers are restricted, and its ability to govern effectively is often undermined by Israeli military presence and control over borders, resources, and movement.
• This refers to the right of return for Palestinians who were displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and their descendants. The United Nations General Assembly Resolution 194 asserts that refugees wishing to return to their homes should be permitted to do so and receive compensation for their losses.
• While there have been numerous UN resolutions and international calls for accountability, enforcement and tangible consequences for Israel's actions have been limited.

Adopting a new viewpoint that underscores the significance of dismantling colonial structures and establishing a single state ruled by democratic norms is crucial.

The authors argue in favor of a single, democratic state as the only fair and lasting solution, encompassing all of historic Palestine to ensure a united future. To bring this vision to fruition, a thorough reevaluation and significant alteration of the prevailing power relationships and ingrained assumptions is crucial.

Creating a unified state that guarantees equal rights for every inhabitant presents a more equitable and achievable alternative compared to upholding the existing regime, often compared to apartheid.

The writers recognize the shortcomings of establishing two separate nations and suggest uniting them into one sovereign state as a more ethical and viable solution for peace. They consider a binational state with equal rights for all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion, to be the only just and sustainable solution.

Chomsky suggests that the creation of a single democratic state encompassing the entirety of the historical region of Palestine represents the only genuine route to ensuring true security for both Palestinians and Israelis. Pappé emphasizes the necessity of creating a state based on the principles of decolonization and strongly condemns the intrinsic exclusionary characteristics inherent in the ideology of Zionism. He envisions a future where mutual recognition of rights and fair treatment form the foundation for rectifying past injustices.

Context

• The comparison to apartheid refers to the system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that existed in South Africa, suggesting that the current situation in the region involves similar issues of inequality and separation.
• Beyond political and legal changes, a binational state would necessitate efforts to foster social cohesion and cultural integration among diverse communities with a history of conflict.
• A single democratic state would ideally be based on principles of equality, justice, and non-discrimination, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion, have equal rights and opportunities.
• A decolonized state would need to address the diverse ethnic and religious identities within the region, ensuring that no group is privileged over another.
• Various international bodies, including the United Nations, have passed resolutions calling for the recognition of Palestinian rights and condemning settlement activities as violations of international law.
• Achieving such a future requires strong political will from both Israeli and Palestinian leadership, as well as support from the international community, to commit to a shared vision of peace and equality.

To achieve this objective, a critical reassessment of the steadfast support that the United States extends towards the strategic policies of Israel is imperative.

The authors acknowledge that the creation of a single state will require considerable effort, particularly in confronting the unwavering support that Israel receives from the United States. They believe that to sway U.S. policy, it is essential to elevate awareness among the public and to participate vigorously in the country's democratic processes, which will consequently necessitate the focus of U.S. governmental bodies.

Chomsky emphasizes the essential support from the United States that allows Israel to act with indifference to international standards and continue its policies of territorial expansion and occupation. He argues that a fair and lasting solution for all parties involved will continue to be elusive without a change in the position adopted by the United States.

Practical Tips

• Educate yourself on the historical context and current events related to US-Israel relations through a self-curated mini-course. Utilize free online educational platforms to compile a list of lectures, documentaries, and interviews that cover the history and evolution of the relationship. Dedicate time each week to go through these materials, taking notes and reflecting on how a critical reassessment could impact future policies.
• Write letters to your elected representatives expressing your views on the U.S. support for Israel, using factual information and personal convictions to articulate your stance. This direct form of civic engagement can influence policymakers and contribute to the broader discourse on the topic.
• Create a "democracy buddy" system with a friend or family member where you hold each other accountable for participating in local town halls, council meetings, or voter registration drives. By pairing up, you ensure that you both stay engaged and can discuss the issues and experiences afterward, reinforcing your commitment and understanding.

A fair and lasting solution to the dispute relies on the creation of a novel political structure that prioritizes the rights of all humans and their civil liberties over any system grounded in religious or ethnic exclusivity.

Pappé underscores the importance of envisioning a new political framework that transcends existing sectarian and ethnic cleavages within the territory referred to as Israel/Palestine. He argues that a truly fair resolution requires dismantling the deep-seated structures of racial prejudice, compulsory displacement, and dominance that are intrinsic to the Zionist project. Pappé envisions a future where all individuals living in what was once known as Palestine will have equal civil and human rights, regardless of their ethnic or religious background. Chomsky argues that adopting this viewpoint is crucial for nurturing enduring harmony and developing a society where dignity, security, and equality are accessible to all, irrespective of their national identity.

Context

• The idea of prioritizing human rights over ethnic or religious exclusivity aligns with international legal standards, such as those outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
• The idea of transcending divisions implies addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring equal representation and participation for all groups in political processes.
• Implementing equal rights would require significant legal and political reforms, including changes to citizenship laws, property rights, and freedom of movement, which are currently sources of contention.
• International human rights organizations have frequently highlighted issues such as unequal access to resources, restrictions on movement, and disparities in legal rights between different groups in the region.
• The region is home to diverse cultures and religions, including Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, which adds complexity to the social and political landscape and influences the discourse on rights and identity.

The dispute has been significantly shaped by the influence of international bodies, particularly the United States in conjunction with the United Nations.

The authors convey their criticism regarding the participation of international actors, particularly the United States, in the persistent conflict. The authors argue that the unwavering support from the United States has enabled Israel's continuous neglect of international standards and its persistent oppression of the Palestinian people. They also convey their disillusionment with the United Nations for not holding Israel accountable for its actions.

America's unwavering support for Israel's territorial expansion and efforts to strengthen its control.

Chomsky and Pappé argue that the United States has played a substantial role in backing Israel's territorial growth and ongoing occupation, while also shielding it from international consequences. The authors highlight how Israel has pursued its goals with minimal restrictions, reinforced by significant backing from the United States, which includes defense assistance, financial aid, and strategic partnerships.

The United States has regularly exercised its veto authority within the United Nations Security Council to prevent the passage of resolutions that would condemn Israeli policies, thereby protecting it from global repercussions.

Chomsky emphasizes the many instances where the United States has used its veto power in the UN Security Council to protect Israel, even when Israel's conduct has been in violation of international norms. This steadfast support, he argues, strengthens Israel's determination to continue its territorial expansion and to disregard calls for responsibility. America's veto in January 1976, which obstructed a resolution that supported the establishment of two sovereign nations within globally recognized boundaries, exemplifies a persistent pattern that persists into the present day.

Other Perspectives

• The use of the veto can be seen as a tool to ensure that complex geopolitical issues receive more nuanced approaches than what might be reflected in the proposed resolutions.
• The U.S. might assert that its vetoes are in defense of a democratic ally in a region where democracies are scarce, and that this support is consistent with American values and foreign policy priorities.
• The U.S. may have had concerns about the implications of the resolution for its broader foreign policy objectives in the Middle East, beyond the immediate issue of Israeli territorial expansion.
• The concept of "disregard for responsibility" is subjective and could be interpreted differently within the context of national security and survival, which may be a priority for Israel.

The steadfast backing of the United States in areas including defense, finance, and international relations has empowered Israel to enlarge its settlements and persist with its occupation, facing minimal substantial worldwide resistance.

The authors argue that Israel's bold maneuvers, executed with minimal concern for the fallout, gain strength from significant military backing and the defensive diplomatic posture of the United States in international forums. The considerable annual military support, along with steadfast diplomatic support in international forums, has been crucial for Israel to maintain its occupation, expand its settlements, and carry out regular military actions with minimal international condemnation.

Other Perspectives

• The level of U.S. military support to Israel is subject to congressional approval and can fluctuate based on changing political and strategic assessments.
• The effectiveness of worldwide resistance is not solely contingent on U.S. policy; other powerful nations and coalitions have the capacity to exert significant pressure independently of the United States.
• Some international actors, including the European Union and various human rights organizations, actively voice opposition to settlement expansion, indicating that there is indeed substantial resistance on the world stage.
• The term "bold maneuvers" could be subjective; what is considered bold by some might be seen as necessary self-defense or strategic policy by others.

The purported impartiality of the United States in mediating talks is compromised by its continual prioritization of Israeli objectives at the expense of the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian population for self-governance.

The authors assert with conviction that the United States, rather than serving as an impartial mediator, consistently behaves in a manner that favors Israeli objectives to the detriment of Palestinian aspirations. Chomsky argues that the United States, by framing the conflict as a stalemate between two equal sides instead of recognizing it as an example of settler colonialism, has subtly endorsed Israel's actions, thus obstructing the rightful pursuit of justice and self-determination by the Palestinian people.

Other Perspectives

• The U.S. has condemned actions by both sides that it views as obstacles to peace, suggesting an attempt to hold both Israelis and Palestinians accountable.
• The United States might argue that its approach is pragmatic and seeks to work within the current geopolitical realities to find a solution, rather than focusing on historical characterizations.
• The US has historically provided aid to the Palestinian Authority and supported initiatives aimed at economic development and institution-building in Palestinian territories, which can be seen as efforts to support Palestinian self-determination.

Efforts from the global community and the United Nations to compel Israel to comply with international law have been unsuccessful.

The writers express their disillusionment with the international community, particularly for its lack of action in holding Israel accountable for its actions. The writers stress the apparent lack of willingness to hold Israel responsible for its clear indifference to international statutes.

The United States and its allies have consistently disregarded or diluted United Nations resolutions that condemn Israel's actions, particularly those related to the expansion of Israeli settlements.

The authors stress that Israel has consistently ignored or intentionally undermined a significant number of United Nations resolutions that censure the growth of settlements in the occupied territories. The writers argue that the political maneuvers of the United States and its shielding of Israel from consequences have greatly weakened the United Nations' capacity to uphold international legal norms and defend the rights of Palestinians.

Practical Tips

• Engage in a personal project to track voting patterns on contentious issues at the UN using publicly available records. Create a simple spreadsheet to log the voting behavior of different countries over time on resolutions related to international conflicts. This hands-on approach will give you a clearer picture of international alliances and policy stances, enhancing your grasp of global diplomacy.
• Engage in conversations with your community about the importance of international accountability. Use social media platforms to share credible information and articles from international law experts, fostering a dialogue about the role of global governance and the impact of shielding countries from consequences.

Israel's ongoing actions remain unaccountable, in part due to the absence of substantial repercussions such as sanctions or the commencement of war crime trials by the global community.

The writers criticize the international community for failing to impose substantial penalties on Israel, thereby creating a situation in which Israel is encouraged to continue violating the rights of the Palestinian people. The reinforcement of Israel's strategies for territorial dominance and the displacement of people is due to a lack of political will to implement sanctions or initiate investigations into alleged war crimes, resulting in continuous operations against Palestinians with little regard for possible repercussions.

Other Perspectives

• Accusations of war crimes and the initiation of trials require a high standard of evidence and due process, which can be difficult to obtain in conflict zones.
• The international community operates on the basis of international law and diplomacy, which often involves complex negotiations and considerations beyond immediate punitive actions.
• Diplomatic and economic relationships with Israel are valued by many countries, which might influence their reluctance to impose sanctions or label actions as violations of Palestinian rights.
• Sanctions are a blunt tool that can have unintended consequences, including exacerbating the suffering of innocent civilians, which may be why there is hesitation to use them.
• There is a perspective that Israel's actions are scrutinized by its own legal system, which can investigate and prosecute misconduct by its forces.

Global indifference has allowed Israel to continue its tactics of land domination, displacement, and disciplinary actions aimed at the Palestinian people without facing substantial repercussions.

The writers argue that the international community's silence regarding Israel's actions has established a dangerous precedent, allowing ongoing violations of international law and persistent neglect of human rights for an extended period. The authors argue that these circumstances have worsened the hardships faced by Palestinians while also undermining the integrity and effectiveness of international bodies tasked with maintaining peace, justice, and human rights.

Practical Tips

• Engage with local political representatives through letter-writing campaigns to express concern about the issue. Draft a template letter that outlines the consequences of global indifference and the importance of political action, then share it with your network to send to their respective officials. This can help bring the issue to the attention of policymakers.
• Start a micro-donation club with friends or family where each member contributes a small amount monthly to fund grassroots organizations working on peace and human rights. By pooling resources, even small contributions can make a significant impact. You could select a different organization each month, ensuring that the support is spread across various initiatives and regions, thereby strengthening the collective effort towards global peace and justice.