Washington Report on Middle East Affairs — January/February 2015

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NUCLEAR CHICKEN IN THE MIDEAST

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Volume XXXIV, No. 1

On Middle East Affairs

January/February 2015

Telling the Truth for More Than 30 Years…

Interpreting the Middle East for North Americans

■

Interpreting North America for the Middle East

THE U.S. ROLE IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND THE ISRAELI OCCUPATION OF PALESTINE 8 Palestinians Fight Back Against Israel’s Lawlessness —Rachelle Marshall 11 Nuclear Chicken in the Mideast—Eric S. Margolis 12 The Flames at Our Doorstep—Samah Jabr 13 Jerusalem: the Unholy City—Uri Avnery 16 Police Killing of Youth in Kafr Kana Inflames Israel’s Palestinian Citizens—Jonathan Cook 18 Gaza’s Post-War Economic Crisis: The Hole Gets Deeper—Mohammed Omer 20 Israel’s Disaffected Druze—Dale Sprusansky 22 Procrastination and Hypocrisy Characterize

24 Chuck Hagel: A Soldier Among Chickenhawks —William Pfaff 25 School Board Decision Disappoints Equality 4 Eid Supporters—Delinda C. Hanley

26 Behind the USS Liberty Cover-up—Maidhc Ó Cathail 28 Lawsuit Challenges U.S. “Ambiguity” Toward Israel’s Nuclear Arsenal—Grant F. Smith

30 JStreetPAC’s Claim to Be Number One Pro-Israel PAC Not Entirely Kosher—Janet McMahon

32 Lame Duck Session May Push Most MideastRelated Issues to 114th Congress—Shirl McArthur

Resolutions on Palestine, Nuclear Weapons

—Ian Williams

SPECIAL REPORTS 34 Moroccan Women: Still at the Barricades —Marvine Howe

38 Two Visions of the Future Battle It Out in Indonesia—John Gee

COPYRIGHT @2014 KHALIL BENDIB www.bendib.com

36 Setbacks and Coalition-Building After October Elections in Bosnia-Herzegovina—Peter Lippman

ON THE COVER: A Kurdish woman carries her child in Mursitpinar, on the outskirts of Suruc at the TurkeySyria border, overlooking Kobani, Syria during fighting between Syrian Kurds and ISIS militants, Oct. 16, 2014. © LEFTERIS PITARAKIS/AP/CORBIS

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(A Supplement to the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs available by subscription at $15 per year. To subscribe, call toll-free 1-888-881-5861.)

Other Voices

Compiled by Janet McMahon

The Mockingjay of Palestine: “If We Burn, You Burn With Us,” Ramzy Baroud, www.ramzybaroud.net

OV-1

The Chickenshit Lobby Is Mad as Hell, Justin Raimondo, www.antiwar.com

OV-3

Dual Citizens in Congress?, L. Michael Hager, www.counterpunch.org

OV-4

U.S. Jewish Voters Have More Favorable Feelings About Netanyahu Than Obama, Philip Weiss, http://mondoweiss.net

OV-5

Theater J Cancels Middle East Festival, Prompting Censorship Debate, Nathan Guttman, The Forward

OV-5

Naftali Bennett’s Wake-Up Call to the West, John V. Whitbeck, www.counterpunch.org OV-7 “The Day Israel Attacked America,” Richard Belfield, www.aljazeera.com U.S. Sent “Lessons Learned” Team to Model Israel Tactics in Gaza Operation, Michael Wilner, The Jerusalem Post

Espionage Allegations Intensify Battle For Israel’s Technion Nuke File, Grant Smith, www.antiwar.com

OV-9

It Is Time to Prosecute Those Responsible For My Torture, Murat Kurnaz, The Nation

OV-10

The Silence of the Israelis on ISIS, Stephen J. Sniegoski, www.consortiumnews.com

OV-11

Disciples of John the Baptist Also Flee ISIS, Karlos Zurutuza, Inter Press Service

OV-13

None Dare Call It a Defeat, Eric Margolis, http://ericmargolis.com

OV-14

OV-7

How a Republican Congress Could Entangle The U.S. Further in the Middle East, Juan Cole, www.juancole.com OV-15

OV-8

Defeat of USA FREEDOM Act Is a Victory For Freedom, Ron Paul, www.ronpaulinstitute.org

OV-16

DEPARTMENTS 5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 7 PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

48 ISRAEL AND JUDAISM:

54 WAGING PEACE: Unequal

Lamenting the Decline of

Treatment: Are Pro-Palestine

“Liberal Zionism” Is Futile—

Groups Targeted on Campus?

Since It Never Really Existed 39 OTHER PEOPLE’S MAIL

—Allan C. Brownfeld

67 DIPLOMATIC DOINGS: Framing and Charting the

41 THE WORLD LOOKS AT THE MIDDLE EAST — CARTOONS

50 ARAB AMERICAN ACTIVISM: Arab American

Region’s Challenges and Opportunities

Patriots and Peacemakers 42 NEW YORK CITY AND TRI-STATE NEWS: Dr. Mads

Honored on Capitol Hill

In Our Power: U.S. Students

Gilbert, Eyewitness to Summer Israeli Assault, Banned From Returning to Gaza—Jane Adas

70 BOOK REVIEW:

50 MUSLIM AMERICAN ACTIVISM: Professor

Organize for Justice in Palestine

—Reviewed by Kevin A. Davis

Shireen Hunter Discusses the 44 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

History of Islam in Iran

MORE

CHRONICLE: CAIR-SFBA Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Style—Elaine Pasquini 46 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

71 MIDDLE EAST BOOKS AND

51 MUSIC & ARTS: Jon Stewart Makes Directorial Debut With

72 BULLETIN BOARD

Film on Iran 73 2014 AET CHOIR OF ANGELS

CHRONICLE: U.S. Needs to Put Its Principles Into Practice,

52 HUMAN RIGHTS: Bethlehem

Nobel Peace Laureate Tells

University Hosts Legacy Dinner

CAIR-LA—Pat and Samir Twair

In DC

19 INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

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Publisher: Managing Editor: News Editor: Assistant Editor: Middle East Books and More Director: Finance & Admin.

Director: Art Director: Executive Editor:

ANDREW I. KILLGORE JANET McMAHON DELINDA C. HANLEY DALE SPRUSANSKY KEVIN A. DAVIS CHARLES R. CARTER RALPH U. SCHERER RICHARD H. CURTISS (1927-2013)

Washington Report on Middle East Affairs (ISSN 8755-4917) is published 8 times a year, monthly except Jan./Feb., March/April and June/July combined, at 1902 18th St., NW, Washington, DC 20009-1707. Tel. (202) 939-6050. Subscription prices (United States and possessions): one year, $29; two years, $55; three years, $75. For Canadian and Mexican subscriptions, $35 per year; for other foreign subscriptions, $70 per year. Periodicals, postage paid at Washington, DC and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Washington Report on Middle East Affairs, P.O. Box 91056, Long Beach, CA 90809-1056.

Published by the American Educational Trust (AET), a non-profit foundation incorporated in Washington, DC by retired U.S. foreign service officers to provide the American public with balanced and accurate information concerning U.S. relations with Middle Eastern states. AET’s Foreign Policy Committee has included former U.S. ambassadors, government officials, and members of Congress, including the late Democratic Sen. J. William Fulbright and Republican Sen. Charles Percy, both former chairmen of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Members of AET’s Board of Directors and advisory committees receive no fees for their services.

The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs does not take partisan domestic political positions. As a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli dispute, it endorses U.N. Security Council Resolution 242’s land-for-peace formula, supported by nine successive U.S. presidents. In general, it supports Middle East solutions which it judges to be consistent with the charter of the United Nations and traditional American support for human rights, selfdetermination, and fair play.

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CONTACT INFORMATION: Washington Report on Middle East Affairs Editorial Office and Bookstore: P.O. Box 53062, Washington, DC 20009-9062 Phone: (202) 939-6050 • (800) 368-5788 Fax: (202) 265-4574 E-mail: wrmea@wrmea.org bookstore@wrmea.org circulation@wrmea.org advertising@wrmea.org Web sites: http://www.wrmea.org http://www.middleeastbooks.com Subscriptions, sample copies and donations: P.O. Box 91056, Long Beach, CA 90809-1056.

Phone: (888) 881-5861 • Fax: (714) 226-9733 Printed in the USA

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

LetterstotheEditor Good Riddance Why does the USA look for a key to the solution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict when it has misplaced that key in its own back pocket?

One hundred ninety-three billon of American tax dollars have been given to Israel in various forms of aid since 1951. Is there no poverty in the USA? Does every American family have access to decent health care?

A 20-foot-high wall has been built in the West Bank to expropriate Palestinian land for the purpose of building and expanding Israeli settlements and to make work inaccessible to Palestinian laborers, and schools inaccessible to Palestinian children.

Israel, according to the USA, has a right to defend itself. Don’t the occupied and oppressed have the right to resist? There are a multitude of U.N. resolutions that gave faint hope to the Palestinians, but when they displease Israel, Uncle Sam comes to the rescue by using its veto power, or replacing Israel’s munitions to aid in the recent slaughter in Gaza.

The key is to say to Israel, that “the well has dried up and you are on your own.”

Good riddance. Save your taxpayers billions of dollars and spend it on your needy citizens. There are many of them.

Emile Turner, via e-mail We’re sorry to see that your own prime minister, Stephen Harper, seems bent on outsupplicating Canada’s neighbor to the south when it comes to Israel. Let’s hope he doesn’t decide to put taxpayers’ money where his mouth is—or, if he does, that voters will take matters into their own hands in Canada’s upcoming fall election and show him the error of his ways.

Context Missing From Mainstream Media Coverage Little has been said in the mainstream press about the horrific living conditions in Gaza over the last 30 years. This absence of context creates the impression that Gazan Palestinians are innately violent and self-destructive, rather than desperate.

The public needs to hear more about the humiliating and punishing conditions Gaza residents endure, and how that might explain the rise of an ugly faction like Hamas. Did not the Israelis resort to extensive terrorism during the pre-1948 period?

Perhaps a word or two about this forgotten era of violence might provide further conTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

text for current events?

Ariel Sharon cynically agreed to turn Gaza over to the Palestinians in 2005 to delay the peace process and facilitate further Israeli settlement of the West Bank.

Gaza remains an open-air prison under total Israeli control. The Israeli military routinely violates Gaza’s “border,” harasses Gazan fishermen and assassinates Palestinians at will, in a policy designed to regularly remind Gazans that they are on a short lease. Compared to the might of Israeli fighter bombers, helicopter gunships, guided missiles and heavy artillery, Hamas’ unguided rockets are a joke.

The ultimate way the Israeli government intends to “avoid civilian casualties” is by turning Gaza into a buffer zone devoid of human life. This will facilitate their intention of seizing the existing natural resources, especially the offshore natural gas reserves. In the background are powerful factions within Israel who are dedicated to the notion of territorial expansion into Lebanon, Syria and Jordan.

Ultimately, who granted the Israeli state sovereign authority over the West Bank, East Jerusalem or Gaza? It was taken and held by violence and the threat of violence, in contravention of international law. They were warned about the consequences of this policy in late 1967, but chose domination over compromise.

Morgan Duchesney, Ottawa, Canada Nor is Israel’s war on Gaza over, as Mohammed Omer reports on p. 18. Now that Israel’s 51-day Operation Protective Edge has ended, the mainstream media would have us believe, the 1.8 million human beings who live in Gaza can simply pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and start all over again. Not quite.

Another thing the mainstream media never report is that Hamas has a much better record of observing cease-fire agreements than does its ugly occupier. In virtually all instances Israel either violates the cease-fire 5

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with a military action or continues to provoke Hamas until it feels compelled to respond.

Keep Those Cards and Letters Coming!

Send your letters to the editor to the Washington Report, P.O. Box 53062, Washington, DC 20009 or e-mail <letters@wrmea.org>.

Shared Values?

A couple of weeks ago, I went to a Southern gospel concert which was arranged by a friend of mine. I could not believe my eyes. While I previously wrote to my friend as well as the pastor at the Assembly of God Church in Sharon, MA (which has a large Jewish population) about the Israeli flag being on stage (altar), I was floored by a poster showing a thermometer which said to support Israel, and the thermometer marked $6,500 raised. I plan on writing another one of my letters to them today. Also, at Jewish temples in nearby towns are huge banners that say, “We Stand With Israel.” Whatever happened to the separation of church and state? And as you know, I separate those who follow the Jewish religion from the political entity of Israel.

Judith Howard, via e-mail Ironically (we think), Israel would prefer that you not separate observers of the Jewish religion from the political entity of Israel.

And now we have to ask, whatever happened to the ideal of a democracy, since before it was dissolved by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Knesset was debating a bill that would define Israel as “the nation-state of the Jewish people”— thereby disenfranchising the 20 percent of Israelis who are not Jewish. By comparison, African-Americans constitute 12 percent of the U.S. population. Would Congress consider treating these citizens similarly?

educational. I happen to be an AfricanAmerican Muslim revert, as my forefathers were made slaves and brought to this country and stripped of an Islamic heritage that I have been striving to regain.

To regain my heritage, I have been, for the most part, self-educating and I am now much keener on African and Middle Eastern affairs. For the most part it’s very hard to obtain unbiased reporting from American media giants whose materials are typically abundantly available even in these confines. The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs was a breath of fresh air to me, so I decided to write you and let you know that. Also, if it is possible, I would like you to consider providing me, an indigent prisoner without the means to otherwise purchase a subscription of your publication, a subscription that I will surely share with other interested prisoners.

I am a voracious reader, and I can never get enough reading material. Unlike many other prisoners I don’t have a television, so I have to always be on the hunt for news and information. I am hopeful, inshaAllah, that perhaps I could be considered for a sponsored subscription.

Thank you for your consideration in this regard. I am hopeful, but recognize the fact that it costs to produce the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and you could not do that if you gave away your publication to everyone who asks, so I will natuInformative and Educational rally understand if you cannot bestow a I am writing this letter after having the subscription. Either way I still extend my privilege of reading three back issues, thanks and appreciation to you. May God which I found to be quite informative and bless you and find favor with all you do.

Brian Keith Barnett, Calipatria, CA Other Voices is an We know an angel who optional 16-page would very much like to unsupplement available derwrite a subscription, so only to subscribers of the this latest issue will soon be Washington Report on on its way to you. Thank you Middle East Affairs. For for your kind words about the Washington Report— an additional $15 per you made our day! year (see postcard insert for Washington Re port Donated Books subscription rates), The Chaplaincy Staff of subscribers will receive DCI would like to express Other Voices inside each issue of their Washington our appreciation for your Report on Middle East Affairs. support of the inmates here Back issues of both publications are available. To at DeSoto Correctional Insubscribe telephone 1 (888) 881-5861, fax (714) 226stitution.

9733, e-mail <circulation@wrmea.org>, or write to As a result of your book P.O. Box 91056, Long Beach, CA 90809-1056. donation, we are able to provide spiritual guidance 6

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

to many inmates. Our goal is to assist the inmates at DCI in maintaining a spiritual awareness and better assist them in their spiritual walk.

Thank you again for your support in this endeavor. May God richly bless you!

Richard Glau, Senior Chaplain, Florida Department of Corrections, Tallahassee, FL Thank you for giving us the opportunity to note that readers can give gifts of books as well as of subscriptions. We are pleased to have contributed to your good work.

God’s Will The enclosed has gone off to the source of all opinion that one dare voice: “Has The New York Times ever explained that ‘Israel’s assaults on Gaza disobey the Hebrew God, who ordered that a retaliation be neither smaller or larger than the injury, ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth ….’

(Ex 21:22-25; Lv 24:19-21; Dt 19:16-21)?”

Charles W. McCutchen, Bethesda, MD An excellent question that we are printing here, since we suspect that it will not appear in America’s “newspaper of record.”

An Angel Steps Forward Enclosed please find my check for $500 to help your efforts to inform more voters, government officials and members of the community who support Zionism.

The second check, for $29, is for a gift subscription.

Edouard Emmet, Paris, France We are most grateful for your generous support of our ongoing expenses in putting out this magazine, as well as for helping spread the word.

One Person at a Time My husband and I received a subscription given to us by publisher Andrew I. Killgore’s daughter Jane and her husband.

Jane has been my OBGYN physician since she came to Bemidji. We are rather professional colleagues, as I supported her as a new female physician (when they were not really accepted) and she supported me as I established a hospice program here in Bemidji. I shall be sad when she retires. I have appreciated her expertise greatly.

I knew she lived in Palestine. And we have talked some over the years. My husband and I are in favor of the Palestinians.

Thank you for publishing this journal. My husband reads it cover to cover, then passes it on to me, and I then pass it on to a friend who found it very enlightening. It takes one person at a time.

Jesica Conrad, Bemidji, MN Every day we see evidence that you are right, and that “one person at a time” is adding up—and making a difference. ❑ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

publishers_7_January-February 2015 Publishers page 12/11/14 10:09 PM Page 7

American Educational Trust

Publishers’ Page

Enough of 2014, Already!

Lady Liberty Got Another Black Eye…

Washington, DC held an important conference this past fall (not that you’d know it from mainstream press coverage—which was—surprise!—zilch). We cut or postponed articles left and right in order to fit in 20 pages of reports in this issue (see pp. 50-69). We believe it is our obligation (mandate? mission?) to let you hear voices from those conferences. You’ll find other stories on our increasingly popular Events Blog—check them out on our website’s home page, <www.wrmea.org>.

CWS/CARTOONARTS INTERNATIONAL WWW.CARTOONWEB.COM

America didn’t win any popularity contests this past year. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) expressed “legitimate concerns” over two separate U.S. grand jury decisions not to indict the white officers who caused the deaths of unarmed black men. The U.N. called for Americans to eradicate “racial profiling and the use of disproportionate and often lethal force,” and also urged “protesters and police to allow for peaceful demonstrations and refrain from fueling further violence.”

With the release of the Senate Intelligence Committee report on the CIA’s grisly interrogation program in the wake of 9/11.

Newspapers around the world, including The Guardian, Britain’s liberal daily, described the horrors in the 528-page executive summary of the classified report: “the catalogue of abuse is nightmarish and reads like something invented by the Marquis de Sade or Hieronymous Bosch.” (References to Britain’s intelligence agencies were deleted at their request.) Some detainees endured waterboarding, mock executions, forced rectal rehydration and feeding and threats made against relatives’ lives. Detainees were forced to stand on broken limbs for hours, kept in complete darkness, subjected to auditory overload, deprived of sleep for up to 180 hours, sometimes standing, sometimes with their arms shackled above their heads. In the words of George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley, CIA practices are “highly damaging to our standing in the world.”

A Plug For “Other Voices”...

in Lebanon listened in on this conversation as it took place, but the recording “vanished” and had never been broadcast before.

Another Death by Beating.

Ziad Abu Ein, 55, a senior member of the Palestinian parliament, died Dec. 10 after a beating by Israeli soldiers and inhaling large amounts of tear gas. Israeli border police officers confronted Abu Ein and other peaceful Palestinian and foreign activists who were trying to plant olive trees near an Israeli settlement outpost. After Abu Ein’s death, Mahmoud Abbas called for three days of mourning and said he was “seriously studying the option of ending all forms of coordination” with Israel. Palestinians are considering other countermeasures, like speeding up the submission of a Security Council draft resolution setting a deadline for the end of the Israeli occupation and taking steps to join the International Criminal Court, with the intention of suing Israel.

Others Told a Major American Story.

As We Begin a New Year…

It took Al Jazeera and a British filmmaker to break through the U.S. mainstream media blackout and air the superb documentary “The Day Israel Attacked America,” about Israel’s 1967 attack on the USS Liberty (see p. 26). Describing how hard it was to get this documentary made (see “Other Voices” supplement, p. 7), filmmaker Richard Belfield recalled, ”Over the years, I pitched the idea to numerous broadcasters and always got the same response: eyes rolled upwards, usually followed by the statement, ‘Are you completely mad?’” His film includes the audiotape of the attack as it unfolded, the real time conversations between Israeli air force pilots and their controllers back at base. The U.S. Embassy

Americans could start writing a story we could be proud of: Promise to end torture forever; stop blocking Palestinian statehood efforts and join Sweden and other nations in recognizing Palestine; call for a serious peace conference in Syria; go all out to support refugees and Middle East economies struggling to cope with change and war; and make peace with Iran. Our biggest wish for 2015:

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

We experimented with something new and started printing the 16-page “Other Voices” supplement in the center of the magazine, bordered in green. (We sent the June/July 2014 issue, our first one to do so, to all Washington Report subscribers as a preview.) We highly recommend adding this perk to your magazine subscription (for a trifling $15 extra per year). The stories are page-turners.

Generosity Rewarded.

Thank you for your generous response to our recent donation appeal. We’ll have every blessed name in our 2014 AET Choir of Angels listed in the next issue of the Washington Report. In addition to helping the magazine and bookstore survive, we hope you’ll write an additional check to help the Washington Report and the Institute for Research: Middle Eastern Policy (IRmep) sponsor an important conference on April 10 at the National Press Club: “The Israel Lobby—Is it Good for the US?” (see ad on p. 31). Those tax-deductible checks can be written to the American Educational Trust Library Endowment with “conference” on the memo line so we know your intentions. Start making plans for an important meeting.

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

7

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Palestinians Fight Back Against Israel’s Lawlessness

SpecialReport

MAHMUD HAMS/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

By Rachelle Marshall

Palestinian women demonstrate in Gaza City in observance of the International Day of Human Rights, Dec. 10, 2014. or nearly 70 years, Palestinians under

FIsraeli occupation have endured expul-

sion from their homes, theft of their land, arbitrary imprisonment, torture, humiliation and devastating bombing attacks with remarkable forbearance. Since taking office in 2005 Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has tested that forbearance to the limit. But as recent events suggest, their patience may be exhausted.

With an Israeli government openly opposed to an independent Palestinian state, the massacre of 2,200 Gazans in Operation Protective Edge, the burning to death by Israelis of 16-year-old Mohammed Abu Khdeir, and thousands more Jewish settlers scheduled to move into Arab East Jerusalem, angry Palestinians took action using the only means they had—stone throwing and knife attacks. Netanyahu’s response was a pledge to “use an iron fist” against the mostly teenage protesters.

Between July and early November, 800 young Palestinians were arrested, scores of them under 18. Police didn’t hesitate to Rachelle Marshall is a free-lance editor living in Mill Valley, CA. A member of Jewish Voice for Peace, she writes frequently on the Middle East.

8

shoot children. Among the victims were Fatima Panjabi, 11, and her 4-year-old cousin Ahmad. Another child, Saleh Mahmoud, 11, was blinded in one eye when he was shot in the face. Bahaa Mousa Bader, 13, Orwah Abdel Hammad, 14, and 15year-old Mohamed Sinokrot were killed by police bullets. The slain children were among the 53 Palestinians killed by Israeli police or settlers this year.

The Knesset recently approved a legislative amendment that will allow 20-year prison sentences for those who throw stones at moving vehicles. But no such punishment was imposed on the dozens of ultra-Orthodox men who in late October hurled stones and slashed the tires of Jerusalem city buses carrying ads posted

by Women of the Wall, an organization seeking the right of women to pray at the Western Wall. Police broke up the riot, but there were no reports of arrests, much less 20-year sentences.

Tensions between Palestinians and Jewish Israelis came to a head in October, when religious nationalists and right-wing politicians renewed their efforts to invade al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, the Muslims’ third most sacred site.

(See “Seeing the Light” installments in the THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

March and April/May 1992 issues of the Washington Report for journalist Vincent Sheean’s account of similar attempts in 1929.) Citing the fact that an ancient Jewish temple once stood there, several cabinet members joined fundamentalist Jews in invading the Dome of the Rock and demanding the right to pray there. Some suggested building a Third Temple on the site. (See “Misunderstandings About Jerusalem’s Temple Mount” by archeologist George Wesley Buchanan in the August 2011 Washington Report, p. 16.)

“When there’s a barrel of explosives, you don’t throw matches,” said Udi Dekel, a retired Israeli general and former peace negotiator, citing the grievances of Palestinians in Jerusalem suffering from years of government neglect and mistreatment. Predictably, the incursions provoked sharp clashes between Palestinians and police, as young Palestinians threw stones and police responded with tear gas, stun grenades and rubber bullets.

As the turmoil continued, a Palestinian bus driver was found hanging from a cord inside his bus. Police called it a suicide but witnesses said he was attacked by a group of Israelis. Meanwhile, at least six Israelis were killed in random stabbings or fatally hit by cars driven by Palestinian drivers.

Tensions were at a boiling point on Nov. 18, when two Palestinian cousins entered a Jerusalem synagogue and stabbed to death three rabbis and a congregant. Both attackers and a policeman were later killed in a gun battle.

The nature of the crime recalled the killing of 29 Palestinians at the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron by Jewish American settler Baruch Goldstein in February 1994.

Fearing retaliation by the Palestinians, Israel placed the entire Palestinian population of Hebron under round-the-clock curfew. The settlers were not punished.

This time the government again retaliated against the Palestinian population, demolishing the offenders’ homes, blocking roads to Palestinian neighborhoods in East Jerusalem, reinforcing roadblocks in the West Bank and stepping up arrests. The mayor of Ashkelon banned Palestinian Israelis from working on school construction sites. B’Tselem condemned these measures as “a deliberate policy for harming the innocent,” since every house demolition leaves several families homeless. Human rights organizations noted that no such JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

punitive action is taken against Israelis who kill Palestinians or fire bomb mosques.

As tensions increased, Reuven Rivlin, Israel’s elderly president who is a member of the Likud party, let loose a verbal bombshell. Speaking at an academic conference in late October, he condemned what he called “an epidemic of anti-Arab racism.”

Charging that “thuggishness has permeated the national dialogue,” he said, ”It is time to honestly admit that Israeli society is sick—and it is our duty to treat this sickness.” In response came a flood of messages calling Rivlin “rotten filth,” ”lowest of the low,” “traitor,” and “lying little Jew”—the very hate rhetoric he was deploring.

Netanyahu makes no effort to discourage such extremism. On the contrary, despite President Mahmoud Abbas’ condemnation of the murders at the synagogue, Netanyahu immediately blamed him for the crime because he had demanded that the Israelis “stop incitement against Aqsa.” But most observers are certain the offenders acted on their own. Hamed Qawasma, a community leader in Hebron, said, “Once you actually come and touch the Aqsa mosque, that’s the red line, that’s when everybody is taking orders from their own mind that something has to be done in response.”

An editorial in the newspaper Haaretz on Oct. 23 had a slightly different explanation, saying, “The roots of the violence lie in the despair and fear felt by Palestinian residents of the city....The ongoing neglect of Palestinian neighborhoods on the one hand and the government’s encouragement of the spread of Jewish settlements in the heart of those same neighborhoods on the other—all these form the swamp from which violence and terror grow.”

On Oct. 30, after an unidentified assailant tried to assassinate Yehuda Glick, a leading agitator for expanded Jewish access to the holy site, Israel shut down alAqsa completely for the first time since 1967, when Israel illegally annexed East Jerusalem. Since Jordan is the official custodian of the site, the issue threatened a serious breach between the two countries.

King Abdullah II recalled his ambassador to Israel, prompting Secretary of State John Kerry to make a hurried trip to Amman, where he held a joint meeting with the king and Netanyahu, and met separately with Abbas. Netanyahu promised to maintain the status quo, allowing Jews to visit Haram al-Sharif but not pray there, and he lifted age restrictions for Palestinian worshippers for the first time in weeks. Jordan’s foreign minister, Nasser Judeh, said Jordan would wait to see if Israel made good on its commitments before the ambassador returned.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

marshall_8-10_Special Report 12/11/14 4:55 PM Page 9

Palestinian men carry posters bearing the portrait of cabinet minister Ziad Abu Ein following the announcement of his death outside Ramallah’s main hospital, Dec. 10, 2014. Abu Ein died after being struck in a confrontation with Israeli soldiers earlier in the day, during an attempt to plant olive trees on Palestinian land near an illegal West Bank settlement.

Meanwhile the petty cruelties of Israeli security forces continued as usual. A video released by Mondoweiss.net in mid-November showed police spraying several West Bank schools with “skunk water,” a foul-smelling liquid containing sewage and other substances that induce vomiting. Several schools were forced to close temporarily.

Showing no reluctance to incite further anger, Israel in late October revealed plans for the fast-track construction of 1,006 more settlement units in East Jerusalem. A few days later the government announced that 185 miles of additional Jewish-only roads were to be built in the West Bank, designed to connect settlements with one another and with Israeli cities. The project will require the expropriation of 6,000 acres of Palestinian land.

The State Department repeated its timeworn message expressing Washington’s “deep concern” and calling Israel’s move to expand the settlements “incompatible with the pursuit of peace.” But according to Gadi Wolfsfeld, a professor of communications in Herzliya, the prime minister “is not really nervous about America anymore because until now nobody has done anything.”

The situation was still volatile in late November, when the cabinet tossed in another match by declaring Israel to be “the nationstate of the Jewish people.” The vote of 14 to 6 was the first step toward codifying that definition as part of the Basic Law. If the Knesset votes to endorse it, the action will further downgrade the rights of 1.5 million Palestinian Israelis, and undoubtedly anger THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Jews around the world who believe Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians violates the basic principles of Judaism.

Also angry were Netanyahu’s relatively moderate coalition partners, Finance Minister Yair Lapid and Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, both of whom were critics of the prime minister’s plans for new settlement construction and his abandonment of the peace process. Lapid accused the prime minister of introducing the new Jewish nationality law in collusion with ultra-Orthodox parties in order to fracture the governing coalition and necessitate new elections that would enable him to form a government with his right-wing allies. On Dec. 2, Netanyahu abruptly fired both Lapid and Livni, and dissolved the government. New elections are expected to be held in March.

Neither the turmoil in Jerusalem nor Israel’s expansion of illegal settlements affected the Obama administration’s decision in October to send Israel a second squadron of F-35 fighter planes in addition to the 19 already sent. The billion-dollar warplanes will presumably be on hand for Israel’s next attack on Gaza. Meanwhile, repair of the wholesale devastation left by Israel’s 51-day bombardment of Gaza last summer has yet to begin.

Israel partially reopened its border with Gaza in early November, but retains strict control over the entry of building materials and other supplies. Although 100,000 homes were destroyed or damaged, along with schools, roads, utilities and hospitals, Israel insists that it be informed of where and how 9

marshall_8-10_Special Report 12/11/14 8:30 PM Page 10

A Cliff-Hanger Negotiations between Iran and U.S. and European officials in Vienna continued up to the wire as the Nov. 24 deadline for an agreement on Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nuclear program approached, before again being extended, this time for seven months. The two most contentious issues were how much capacity Iran could retain to enrich uraniumâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in other words, the number of centrifuges it could keepâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and how quickly the U.S. and its allies would lift the sanctions that have severely hurt Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy (see story p. 11).

President Obama has ruled out Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s demand that sanctions be lifted as soon as an agreement is reached.

The basic requirement of the U.S. is that it take at least a year for Iran to produce a nuclear weapon, and meanwhile the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nuclear facilities would be open to international inspection.

Russia provided a possible basis for agreement in early November, when it offered to build two new nuclear reactors in Iran on condition that the Iranians buy Russian reactor fuel, thereby lessening Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need to enrich uranium itself. The U.S., China and the Europeans have already acknowledged Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to enrich small amounts of uranium for industrial purposes as long as it submits to international monitoring.

Looming over the meetings, however, was the shadow of parties far from the scene that oppose any agreement. Saudi Arabia and the Gulf emirates fear the dominance of Shiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i Iran in the region, and Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loyal following in Congress insists that Iran should not be allowed any capability of producing nuclear fuel. Sen. Robert Menendez, the New Jersey Democrat who heads the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and several Republican senators (Advertisement)

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have threatened to call for new sanctions unless Iran dismantles its nuclear program entirely.

Also in the line-up against an agreement is the hard-line group United Against Nuclear Iran, which donates at least $1.7 million a year to members of Congress. Its main function is to expose companies suspected of doing business with Iran. With former Sen. Joseph Lieberman, former Middle East adviser Dennis Ross, and several other prominent former officials on its advisory board, the organization exerts considerable influence.

Lawyers for the owner of one targeted company, Greek shipping magnate Victor Restis, filed a defamation suit last summer against the group, charging it is funded by â&#x20AC;&#x153;unidentified foreign interests.â&#x20AC;? The identity of those interests turned out to be no mystery. When Restisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lawyers tried to force a former Israeli intelligence chief and an Israeli businessman to testify in the suit, the Justice Department blocked the attempt, saying the records contain information the government does not want revealed.

The judge in the case, Edgardo Ramos of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, called the decision â&#x20AC;&#x153;very curious.â&#x20AC;? Curious, perhaps, but not surprising, if viewed as yet another example of Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests being given priority over wise policy. If Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporters succeed in preventing a nuclear agreement, and existing sanctions remain in place, Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moderate President Hassan Rouhani will undoubtedly be replaced by hard-liners.

And Israel will again have an enemy it can point to when it seeks U.S. support. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;R.M.

every bag of cement is used. Hamas members are barred from receiving aid. Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements are so stringent that truckloads of cement intended for Gaza are still sitting in warehouses. Oxfam estimates it will be 50 years before Gaza is rebuilt.

Having destroyed Gaza, the Israelis now stand to profit from whatever reconstruction does take place. Israel has a veto over who supplies the cement, so much of the reconstruction aid will go to Israeli cement producers. Palestinian businessmen have tried in the past to establish cement factories in the West Bank but were denied permits.

Gazansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hardships intensified after Egyptian Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi replaced democratically elected Mohamed Morsi in a military coup in 2013. Egypt sealed its border with Gaza, and destroyed the tunnels through which Palestinians smuggled essential goods into Gaza in an attempt to circumvent Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven-yearold blockade. In mid-November Egyptian troops began demolishing some 800 homes in the border town of Rafah to thwart tunnel construction, leaving thousands of people homeless and creating a barren buffer zone a thousand meters wide.

The home demolitions were a response to a series of deadly attacks on the Egyptian military by militants known as Ansar Beit al-Maqdis, which is affiliated with ISIS. Cairo blames Hamas for providing weapons and support for the militants, but experts say the arms are coming through THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Egyptâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long border with Libya.

The overthrow of Col. Muammar Qaddafi, aided by the active intervention of the Obama administration, left a political vacuum in Libya that turned the country into a failed state, with continued fighting among rival militias. Large quantities of weapons looted from Qaddafiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arsenals were released into the region, with many of them ending up with ISIS and other armed groups such as Boko Haram in Nigeria.

The el-Sisi regime considers pro-democracy advocates and other government critics to be almost as much of a threat as the militants. Human rights organizations in Egypt have been shut down, and nearly a thousand students accused of taking part in peaceful protests remain in prison, along with thousands of members of the Muslim Brotherhood and several prominent journalists.

Such human rights violations did not deter the State Department from organizing an investment conference in Cairo in mid-November for some 65 American business executives, an event that Egyptâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rulers were likely to regard as an endorsement of the regime. Others saw it as yet another example of America compromising its principles in order to protect Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests. The Egyptian rulers can violate their citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rights as cruelly as they wish, as long as they are willing to observe peace with Israel in exchange for billions of dollars a year in U.S. military aid. â?&#x2018; JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

margolis_11_Special Report 12/11/14 8:33 PM Page 11

Nuclear Chicken in the Mideast SpecialReport

By Eric S. Margolis o no surprise, nuclear talks between

come stalemated.

Iran will not sink “to its knees” to win a nuclear deal with the great powers, said its leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after the failure of six months of talks in Vienna.

However, the talks will continue until at least next March. Pity the poor negotiators: besides being excruciatingly boring, dealing with the tough, savvy Iranians is like pulling teeth. The only nationality I ever saw get the better of Iranians in negotiations were Armenians.

The United States has been waging economic and political warfare on the Islamic Republic since 1979. Only Cuba has been pounded longer. Both have suffered hugely.

Of late, Iranian nuclear scientists and technicians have been murdered in broad daylight. Nuclear installations have been sabotaged. The Stuxnet virus allegedly unleashed by the U.S. and Israel against Iran’s centrifuges risked a catastrophic explosion or the release of nuclear contamination. In neighboring Iraq, some 300 of its former nuclear technicians and scientists have been mysteriously murdered during the U.S. occupation.

Iran’s economy has been very seriously damaged by the U.S.-led boycott and commercial restrictions. Iranians are suffering mounting inflation, shortages of goods, and a collapsing currency. Iranians are fed up being the target of Western sanctions.

In a major concession, last summer Iran converted or diluted 200 kg. of uranium enriched to 20 percent, rendering it unusable for any potential further enrichment into nuclear weapons fuel.

The International Atomic Energy Agency certified this procedure. The balance of Iran’s uranium stockpile is at 5 percent—adequate for energy production but not for weapons. Half its 20,000 centrifuges used to enrich uranium are shut down. U.N. inspectors or cameras closely watch Iranian nuclear installations—not to mention American and Israeli satellites.

Eric S. Margolis is an award-winning, internationally syndicated columnist and author of American Raj: America and the Muslim World (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More). Copyright Eric S. Margolis 2014.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

JOE KLAMAR/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

TIran and major world powers have be-

In Vienna, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif delivers a statement along with European Union High Representative Catherine Ashton (not pictured) on the status of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, Nov. 24, 2014. Talks were extended another seven months.

So why does Iran stick to its guns—at least so far—and refuse to make a deal limiting or ending its production of nuclear fuel? Why endure all the political and economic punishment and the never very distant threat of attack by the U.S. and/or Israel?

First, because nuclear energy has become a potent nationalist symbol for Iran.

Ayatollah Khamenei has repeatedly asserted that what he calls the “Western colonial powers” (read the U.S., Britain, France) have long sought to deny modern technology to the Muslim world in order to keep it backward and dependent on them. This is, of course, just what Imperial Britain did with India.

Iranians point to the dire example of Iraq—the most industrialized and technologically advanced Arab nation—that was destroyed, they say, for this very reason.

A self-sufficient nuclear power industry will help assure Iran’s economic and political independence at a time when oil reserves in this nation of 70 million are falling. Nuclear power is a U.N.-granted right so long as it stays peaceful. Iran’s nuclear industry has been vigorously inTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

spected for over a decade by the U.N., with no major violations discovered.

Ayatollah Khamenei has issued a fatwa (religious decree) banning nuclear weapons, vowing that Iran would never possess or use them. U.S. intelligence has repeatedly stated that Iran has no nuclear weapons.

Ironically, it is the existing declared nuclear powers—the U.S., Russia, China, France, Britain—who are in violation of the 1970 Non-Proliferation Treaty. The pact denied nuclear weapons to other nations provided that the signatories rapidly eliminate their nuclear arsenals. Four decades later, none have complied with the treaty, while Israel, India, Pakistan and North Korea have all secretly built nuclear arsenals.

But this does not matter to Iran’s many enemies. They continue to raise a hue and cry. Way back in 2006, Israel was claiming Iran would have a nuclear weapon “in six months.” We have heard similar claims ever since.

Since no nuclear weapons have been identified in Iran, its enemies now insist Tehran is taking peaceful nuclear energy to Continued on page 23 11

jabr_12_Jerusalem Journal 12/11/14 8:23 PM Page 12

The Flames at Our Doorstep JerusalemJournal

ILIA YEFIMOVICHAFP/GETTY IMAGES

By Samah Jabr

Young boys walk by the damaged Jerusalem home of Abdel Rahman Al-Shaludi, the Palestinian who in September drove his car into passengers at a railway station in Jerusalem, Nov. 19, 2014, the day after it was destroyed by Israeli army and police. The government announced that it will destroy the family homes of anyone (not Jewish) who commits a terrorist act. ne cannot understand the recent inci-

Odents in which Palestinian Jerusa-

lemites attacked and killed Jewish Israelis without taking into account the current and historical political contexts. Nor will simply judging and punishing these acts prevent their future occurrence.

Israeli officials were quick to place the blame on all Palestinian parties, as well as on our religion, our educational system, our media, even our innocent President Mahmoud Abbas, not to mention the Islamic movement in ‘48 Palestine and the international community. But there was no mention of the role the Israeli occupation and its oppressive policies play in provoking such acts.

Despite the profound inequalities between East and West Jerusalem—denying Palestinians citizenship, engineering laws to push them out of their own city, and imposing daily humiliations on them in almost every aspect of life—there were no Samah Jabr is a Jerusalemite psychiatrist and psychotherapist who cares about the well-being of her community—beyond issues of mental health.

12

confrontations in Jerusalem until the kidnapping and burning alive of 16-year-old Mohammed Abu Khdeir from East Jerusalem’s Shuafat neighborhood.

The resulting clashes that were provoked by this incident were met by official brutality and more crimes by settlers.

Young Palestinians who took part in the clashes were arrested and tortured, and prohibitive fines were imposed on their families—one mother whose three sons were arrested told me she had been ordered to pay 3 million NIS. Not only are families punished for the behavior of their sons, but since those clashes erupted our neighborhood has been plunged into darkness and traffic lights still are not working.

Additional border police have been put at the disposal of Jerusalem police and security forces. Now in Shuafat, as in many Jerusalem neighborhoods, wherever one looks there are soldiers carrying large rifles. Ostensibly they are there to protect the passengers on the Jerusalem light rail line—a project built in defiance of international law—but they also provoke the Arab residents, stopping youths and making them stand for hours with their faces THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

against walls and arms raised; urinating on the walls of our shops and homes; throwing children’s schoolbooks in the muddy streets; and issuing arbitrary traffic tickets to everyone they can—my two cousins and brother all received tickets in a single day. When they can’t find another excuse, they will tell drivers that their back window is dirty or the light for the oil tank is on empty, and fine them for that! Surveillance cameras are everywhere, and children get arrested at night by masked men who speak a language they don’t understand.

Meanwhile Jewish settler attacks on Palestinians go uninvestigated and unpunished, and Israeli soldiers rush to kill and demolish the homes of anyone suspected of attacking Jewish Israelis.

Even though there have been many reports of attacks on Palestinian pedestrians late at night or in the early morning, and of aggressive acts against bus drivers and gas station workers, no measures were taken to protect them. When the bus driver Yousef Rammouni was found hanged in his bus, Palestinian Jerusalemites rejected the Israeli conclusion that he had committed suicide. After all, earlier Israeli reports had maintained that Abu Khdeir was killed in an act of familial revenge because he was homosexual—until Palestinian-owned cameras identified his Jewish kidnappers and murderers.

We Are All Murabitoun In Jerusalem we have all kinds of people: it is true that we have a growing drug problem among our youth, and a few traitors who collaborate with Israel and sell land and properties to Zionist organizations. But we have freedom fighters willing to die in resistance to the occupation, and we have Al Murabitat and AlMurabitoun: female and male volunteers who guard the Haram Al Sharif from extremist right-wing Jewish groups who invade the Haram and call for the destruction of al-Aqsa in order to build the Third Temple in its place. The word Ribat, or steadfastness, is believed to come from Hadith Al Ribat: it is reported that the Prophet said, “A group of my Ummah will remain fighting for justice, they will vanquish their enemy and they will never submit to those who harm them Continued on page 33 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

avnery_13-14_Special Report 12/11/14 9:29 PM Page 13

Jerusalem: the Unholy City SpecialReport

By Uri Avnery

in 1948, would have been restored to their rightful owners who had fled to East Jerusalem.

The Jerusalem municipality would have been expanded to include Arabs from the East, even without a specific request. And so on.

The opposite happened.

No property was restored, nor any compensation paid. The municipality remained exclusively Jewish.

Arab inhabitants were not accorded Israeli citizenship, but merely “permanent residence.” This is a status that can be arbitrarily revoked at any moment—and indeed was revoked in many cases, compelling the victims to move out of the city. For appearance’s sake, Arabs were allowed to apply for Israel citizenship. The authorities knew, of course, that only a handful would apply, since doing so would mean recognition of the occupation. For Palestinians, this would be paramount to treason. (And the few who did apply were generally

n its long and checkered

Ihistory, Jerusalem has

SPENCER PLATT/GETTY IMAGES

been occupied by dozens of conquerors.

Babylonians and Persians, Greeks and Romans, Mamluks and Turks, Britons and Jordanians—to mention just a few.

The latest occupier is Israel, which conquered and annexed Jerusalem in 1967.

(I could have written “East Jerusalem”—but all of historical Jerusalem is in today’s East Jerusalem. All the other parts were built in the last 200 years by Zionist settlers, or are surrounding Arab villages which were arbitrarily joined to the huge area that is now called Jerusalem after its occupation.)

The week before Thanksgiving Jerusalem was in flames—again. Two youngsters from Jabel Mukaber, one of the Arab villages annexed to Jerusalem, entered a synagogue in the west of the city during morning prayers and killed four devout Jews, before themselves being killed by po- Israeli border police patrol by the Dome of the Rock at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem’s Old City, Dec. 1, 2014. lice.

Jerusalem is called “the refused.)

City of Peace.” This is a linguistic mistake. Jerusalem was one of them.

The municipality was not broadened. In The annexation was presented to us (I True, in antiquity it was called Salem, which sounds like peace, but Salem was in was a member of the Knesset at the time) as theory, Arabs are entitled to vote in mua unification of the city, which had been nicipal elections, but only a handful do so, fact the name of the local deity.

It is also an historical mistake. No city in cruelly rent asunder in the Israeli-Palestin- for the same reasons. In practice, East the world has seen as many wars, mas- ian war of 1948. Everybody cited the Bib- Jerusalem remains occupied territory.

The mayor, Teddy Kollek, was elected sacres and as much bloodshed as this one. lical sentence: “Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together.” This translation two years before the annexation. One of All in the name of some God or other.

Jerusalem was annexed (or “liberated,” of Psalm 122 is rather odd. The Hebrew his first actions after it was to demolish the or “unified”) immediately after the Six- original says simply “a city that is joined entire Mugrabi, or Moroccan, Quarter next to the Western Wall, leaving a large empty together.”

Day War of 1967.

In fact, what happened in 1967 was any- square resembling a parking lot. The inThat war was Israel’s greatest military habitants, all of them poor people, were triumph. It was also Israel’s greatest disas- thing but unification.

If the intent had really been unification, evicted within hours. ter. The divine blessings of the incredible But Kollek was a genius in public relavictory turned into divine punishments. it would have looked very different.

Full Israeli citizenship would have been tions. He ostensibly established friendly reUri Avnery, a former member of the Israeli automatically conferred on all inhabitants. lations with the Arab notables, introduced Knesset, is a founder of Gush Shalom, All the lost Arab properties in West them to foreign visitors and created a genJerusalem, which had been expropriated eral impression of peace and contentment. <www.gush-shalom.org>.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

13

avnery_13-14_Special Report 12/11/14 8:25 PM Page 14

Kollek built more new Israeli neighborhoods on Arab land than any other person in the country. Yet this master-settler collected almost all the world’s peace prizes, except the Nobel Prize. East Jerusalem remained quiet.

Only a few knew of a secret directive from Kollek, instructing all municipal authorities to see to it that the Arab population—then 27 percent—did not rise above that level.

Kollek was ably supported by Moshe Dayan, then the defense minister. Dayan believed in keeping the Palestinians quiet by giving them all possible benefits, except freedom.

A few days after the occupation of East Jerusalem he removed the Israeli flag which had been planted by soldiers in front of the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount. Dayan also turned the de facto authority for the Mount over to the Muslim religious authorities.

Jews were allowed into the Temple compound only in small numbers and only as quiet visitors. They were forbidden to pray there, and forcibly removed if they moved their lips. They could, after all, pray to their heart’s content at the adjoining Western Wall (which is a part of the compound’s ancient outer wall).

The government was able to impose this decree because of a quaint religious fact: Orthodox Jews are forbidden by the rabbis to enter the Temple Mount altogether. According to a Biblical injunction, ordinary Jews are not allowed into the Holy of Holies, only the High Priest was allowed in. Since nobody today knows where exactly this place is located, pious Jews may not enter the entire compound.

As a result, the first few years of the occupation were a happy time for East Jerusalem. Jews and Arabs mingled freely.

It was fashionable for Jews to shop in the colorful Arab market and dine in the “oriental” restaurants. I myself often stayed in Arab hotels and made quite a number of Arab friends.

This atmosphere changed gradually. The government and the municipality spent a lot of money to gentrify West Jerusalem, but Arab neighborhoods in East Jerusalem were neglected, and turned into slums.

The local infrastructure and services degenerated. Almost no building permits were issued to Arabs, in order to compel the younger generation to move outside the city borders. Then the “Separation” Wall was built, preventing those outside from entering the city, cutting them off from their schools and jobs. Yet in spite of 14

everything, the Arab population grew and reached 40 percent.

Political oppression grew. Under the Oslo agreements, Jerusalemite Arabs were allowed to vote for the Palestinian Authority. But then they were prevented from doing so, their representatives were arrested and expelled from the city. All Palestinian institutions were forcibly closed down, including the famous Orient House, where the much admired and beloved leader of the Jerusalem Arabs, the late Faisal al-Husseini, had his office.

Kollek was succeeded by Ehud Olmert and an Orthodox mayor who didn’t give a damn for East Jerusalem, except the Temple Mount.

And then an additional disaster occurred. Secular Israelis are leaving Jerusalem, which is rapidly becoming an Orthodox bastion. In desperation they decided to oust the Orthodox mayor and elect a secular businessman. Unfortunately, he is a rabid ultra-nationalist.

Nir Barkat behaves like the mayor of West Jerusalem and the military governor of East Jerusalem. He treats his Palestinian subjects like enemies, who may be tolerated if they obey quietly, and brutally suppressed if they do not. Together with the decade-old neglect of the Arab neighborhoods, the accelerated pace of building new Jewish neighborhoods, the excessive police brutality (openly encouraged by the mayor), they are producing an explosive situation.

The total cutting-off of Jerusalem from the West Bank, its natural hinterland, worsens the situation even more.

To this may be added the termination of the so-called peace process, since all Palestinians are convinced that East Jerusalem must be the capital of the future State of Palestine.

This situation needed only a spark to ignite the city. This was duly provided by the right-wing demagogues in the Knesset.

Vying for attention and popularity, they started to visit the Temple Mount, one after the other, every time unleashing a storm.

Added to the manifest desire of certain religious and right-wing fanatics to build the Third Temple in place of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and the golden Dome of the Rock, this was enough to create the belief that the holy shrines were indeed in danger.

Then came the ghastly revenge-murder of an Arab boy who was abducted by Jews and burned alive with gasoline poured into his mouth.

Individual Muslim inhabitants of the city started to act. Disdaining organizaTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

tions, almost without arms, they started a series of attacks that are now called “the intifada of individuals.” Acting alone, or with a brother or cousin whom he trusts, an Arab takes a knife, or a pistol (if he can get one), or his car, or a tractor, and kills the nearest Israelis. He knows that he is going to die.

The two cousins who killed four Jews in a synagogue this week—and also an Arab Druze policeman—knew this. They also knew that their families were going to suffer, their homes be demolished, their relatives arrested. They were not deflected.

The mosques were more important.

Moreover, the day before, an Arab bus driver was found dead in his bus. According to the police, the autopsy proved that he committed suicide. An Arab pathologist concluded that he was murdered. No Arab believes the police—Arabs are convinced that the police always lie.

Immediately after the synagogue killing, the Israeli choir of politicians and commentators went into action. They did so with an astonishing unanimity—ministers, Knesset members, ex-generals, journalists, all repeating with slight variations the same message. The reason for this is simple: every day the prime minister’s office sends out a “page of messages,” instructing all parts of the propaganda machine what to say.

This time the message was that Mahmoud Abbas was to blame for everything, a “terrorist in a suit,” the leader whose incitement causes the new intifada. No matter that the chief of the Shin Bet testified on the very same day that Abbas has neither overt nor covert connections with the violence.

Binyamin Netanyahu faced the cameras and with a solemn face and lugubrious voice—he is a really good actor—repeated again what he has said many times before, every time pretending that this is a new recipe: more police, harder punishments, demolition of homes, arrests and large fines for parents of 13-year-old children who are caught throwing stones, and so on.

Every expert knows that the result of such measures will be the exact opposite.

More Arabs will become incensed and attack Israeli men and women. Israelis, of course, will “take revenge” and “take the law into their own hands.”

For both inhabitants and tourists, walking the streets of Jerusalem, the city which is “joined together,” has become a risky adventure. Many stay at home.

The Unholy City is more divided than ever before. ❑ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

helping_hand_ad_15_Helping Hand ad January-February 2015 12/11/14 10:00 AM Page 27

cook_16-17_The Nakba Continues 12/11/14 9:16 PM Page 16

Police Killing of Youth in Kafr Kana Inflames Israel’s Palestinian Citizens TheNakbaContinues

PHOTO J. COOK

By Jonathan Cook

A poster of Kheir Hamdan at the entrance to his family home in Kafr Kana. auf Hamdan admitted to one small

Rconsolation as he sat in his mourning

tent, greeting a stream of well-wishers paying condolences nearly a week after Israeli police gunned down his son in the street.

“At least his death was caught on camera,” he said. “Otherwise the police would accuse me of lying when I said that he was executed in cold blood. The police can claim whatever they like. The truth is there for all to see.”

The killing of 22-year-old Kheir Hamdan on Nov. 7—and the footage of it caught on security cameras that quickly went viral on social media—set off a firestorm of protests in Palestinian communities across Israel.

Hamdan instantly became a symbol: a victim of Israeli brutality and oppression, merging the experiences of Israel’s large minority of 1.5 million Palestinian citizens with those Jonathan Cook is a journalist based in Nazareth and a winner of the Martha Gellhorn Special Prize for Journalism. His most recent book is Disappearing Palestine (available from Middle East Books and More).

16

of their kin in the occupied territories of the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza.

Although their inhabitants are disconnected politically and geographically, all these Palestinian areas have been simmering with a shared and barely suppressed rage that has left analysts wondering whether a new uprising, or intifada, is about to erupt.

The Hamdan family home in Kafr Kana, a town of 22,000 Palestinians in northern Israel near Nazareth, is located in an overcrowded backstreet, close to a church over the site where Jesus is said to have performed his first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding.

But like other Palestinian communities in Israel, Kafr Kana feels like a community under an occupation of sorts.

Despite the flood of pilgrims, there are no hotels or major restaurants in the town.

Israeli tour buses pay a flying visit that leaves Kafr Kana with none of the usual benefits of tourism.

Half of the town’s inhabitants are under 18, pointed out local journalist Wadea Awawdy. But jobs are scarce, as are the chances of finding land on which to build a home, usually a pre-requisite here for getting married. None of that looks accidental to residents.

Kafr Kana’s only land reserves for housing and industry have been seized by the state and reassigned to Nazareth Ilit, a Jewish city built decades ago to “Judaize” Nazareth and its environs. “They have a large industrial zone on our land,” said Awawdy. “The only thing we get from it is pollution from a glass smelting factory.”

It is a picture of neglect and marginalization common in Palestinian communities throughout the Galilee. Excluded from a meaningful Israeli identity, the minority increasingly feels it shares a common struggle with Palestinians across the Green Line.

The entrance to the Hamdan home hosted a martyr poster of the kind familiar when Palestinians are killed by the Israeli army in the occupied territories. Hamdan’s face was framed by the Palestinian flag.

The passage down to the mourning tent was adorned with images of the al-Aqsa mosque, the Islamic holy site regularly at the center of Palestinian protests in occupied Arab East Jerusalem.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Wrapped around 50-year-old Rauf Hamdan’s neck was a keffiyeh, a scarf that Yasser Arafat made a symbol of Palestinian resistance.

In the aftermath of his son’s killing, such scarves concealed the faces of some of the thousands of youths who clashed with police in Kafr Kana and elsewhere during protests. That did not stop police arresting dozens of youths.

The keffiyeh was also adopted by thousands of Palestinian children in Israeli schools as a visual protest, while a Palestinian Knesset member, Basel Ghattas, sparked a flood of complaints when he donned it inside the Knesset.

“We are seen as the enemy by Israel because we are Palestinians,” said Rauf Hamdan. “Our citizenship makes no difference to the security forces.”

Hamdan’s assessment echoed that of an official inquiry into an earlier incident, 14 years ago, when Israeli police fired live ammunition and rubber bullets at unarmed demonstrators in the Galilee at the start of the second intifada. Thirteen Palestinian citizens were killed and hundreds wounded in what have come to be known as the October 2000 events.

The Or Commission concluded that Israeli police related to the Palestinian minority “as an enemy.”

In November, one of the three members of that commission, Shimon Shamir, a noted history professor, told Israeli radio that the police’s approach to the country’s Palestinian minority had only gotten worse in the intervening years.

That, said Awawdy, was how it looked to most Palestinian citizens, too, as they watched the video of Hamdan’s killing.

Hamdan’s final moments were captured by cameras from several angles outside an electrical shop close to his home. The store’s owner, Ehab Khoury, tutted angrily as he watched the video again. Like others, he was outraged by footage showing Hamdan being shot in the upper body from close range as he tried to flee from a police van.

Judging by Khoury’s reaction and the hushed conversations in the mourning tent, even more infuriating were the scenes of Hamdan, moments after he was severely wounded, being dragged along the ground JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

by his arms and into the van.

“What is he?” demanded Khoury. “A citizen or a sack of potatoes? Why did they not call an ambulance when it was clear he was badly wounded?”

Police claim they fired a warning shot, though the cameras do not show the officer who fired on him doing so. But one of Khoury’s videos reveals the shadow of a policeman’s raised arm, holding a gun, from the far side of the van, out of the camera’s view.

That night, a bullet smashed through neighbor Edward Khoury’s bedroom window. If that was the warning shot, it looks suspiciously like it was fired with no regard to the safety of the residents close by.

Other details have further inflamed passions. The video shows the police van driving past the camera on its way out of Kafr Kana, having made a late-night arrest of Hamdan’s cousin following a domestic incident. Kheir Hamdan himself had been pepper-sprayed during the arrest.

Many seconds later, Hamdan comes into view chasing after the departing police. Then the van suddenly appears again in view of the camera, the police apparently having decided to return to deal with the young man.

Hamdan is seen banging on the window with an object police said was a knife. But he flees as the police emerge. According to medical reports, he was shot twice.

The cousin’s testimony to lawyers suggested the police drove around for some long minutes away from the nearest hospitals in Nazareth before heading for a much more distant one in Afula, losing vital time.

“His killing was premeditated,” said his father. “The police were leaving. They came back only to kill him.”

Human rights lawyers at Adalah, a legal center for Israel’s Arab minority, said the evidence suggested Hamdan was “executed.”

Unlawful killings by police have been a continuing occurrence since the 13 deaths in October 2000, said Jafar Farah of Mossawa, an advocacy group for Israel’s Palestinian minority.

Mossawa has identified 35 cases of Palestinian citizens being killed in similar circumstances by security forces since 2000, including previous incidents in Kafr Kana. Only in three cases were officers convicted, but the courts handed down short sentences.

“There is the same impunity for the security forces when it comes to using live ammunition against civilians, whether it is in Israel or the occupied territories,” said Farah.

A Green Light to Kill Comments a few days before Hamdan’s killing by the police minister, Yitzhak JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

PHOTO J. COOK

cook_16-17_The Nakba Continues 12/11/14 9:17 PM Page 17

Father Rauf Hamdan (second from right) and family members in their mourning tent.

Aharonovitch, that terrorists “should be sentenced to death” rather than arrested had given “a green light” to police to use live ammunition against civilians, Farah added.

Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein insisted on an investigation by a justice ministry unit known as Mahash, but few in the Palestinian minority expect it to be thorough.

“I have no trust that Mahash will get to the truth,” said Rauf Hamdan.

That skepticism is shared by human rights lawyers. A recent report by Adalah noted that Mahash had closed without action 93 percent of complaints between 2011 and 2013, including in cases of clear breaches of police regulations.

Earlier, Mahash was accused of failing to properly investigate the police officers responsible for killing the 13 demonstrators in October 2000. None were ever indicted.

There were signs that the police were expecting similar lenience on this occasion.

National Commissioner Yohanan Danino dismissed criticism of the police’s treatment of Hamdan as “unfounded” and “irresponsible.”

But the Palestinian minority’s concerns are not limited to police brutality. The political reaction was equally disturbing.

Rauf Hamdan said no government official had visited the tent, or called to offer condolences. Instead, government leaders used Hamdan’s death to further question the minority’s status as citizens.

Both Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and his economics minister, Naftali Bennett, suggested Hamdan was a “terrorist,” placing his fight with the police on a par with recent Palestinian attacks on Israeli civilians.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

But more worrying still, Netanyahu exploited the outpouring of anger in the Galilee to confirm the Palestinian minority’s growing suspicion that the Israeli authorities see no future for them in a Jewish state.

Netanyahu called on the interior minister to investigate stripping the protesters in Kafr Kana and elsewhere of their citizenship. He also urged them to “move to the Palestinian Authority or to Gaza…Israel will not put any obstacles in your way.”

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman leapt at the chance to promote again his plan to redraw Israel’s borders to expel a quarter of a million Palestinian citizens, saying: “It is clear that territorial and population swaps must be part of the solution.

Us here and them there.”

A Palestinian Knesset member, Ahmed Tibi, said Netanyahu had “gone off the rails” in making his remarks, a view shared by the liberal daily Haaretz. An editorial accused Netanyahu of “exposing his nationalist face to the public.”

Since earlier in the year, Netanyahu and his government have intensified their efforts to silence the minority’s Palestinian representatives, both in and out of the parliament.

The electoral threshold was raised in March to a level that may ensure there are no Palestinian parties in the next Knesset. Meanwhile, Netanyahu used the protests over Hamdan’s killing to reiterate plans to outlaw the Islamic Movement, the minority’s most popular extra-parliamentary political faction.

Farah noted that clashes between police and the Palestinian minority were occurring more regularly and growing in intenContinued on page 37 17

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Gaza’s Post-War Economic Crisis: The Hole Gets Deeper Gazaon the Ground

PHOTO M. OMER

By Mohammed Omer

Owner Mohammed Al-Telbani contemplates his destroyed Al-Awda food factory. ollowing Israel’s summer assault on and

Fongoing siege of Gaza, the shutting

down of tunnels into Rafah by the Egyptian authorities has proved to be yet another blow to ordinary Gazans struggling to survive. The tunnels represented a lifeline for a captive population cut off from essential supplies and materials.

Salem Alemawi, 46, was one of the first to fall victim to the closures. He used to be a flagstone builder, a job that enabled him to support his family of nine children. He began his career in the Israeli flagstone business, building pavements in several Israeli cities, before starting his own business in Gaza City. Because he can no longer procure the flagstones and cement he Award-winning journalist Mohammed Omer reports from the Gaza Strip, where he maintains the Web site <www.rafahtoday.org>.

Follow him on Twitter: @MoGaza.

18

needs, he had to shut down his company, and is now unemployed.

In Gaza supplies of petrol and natural resources are limited, and often the only available resource is skilled labor. But even that is often of little or no use, since Israel prevents most construction materials from entering Gaza, meaning workers are left to sit at home, earning no income to support their familes.

Not only are the tunnels shut, they are virtually destroyed. But even that was not enough to satisfy the Egyptian military, which proceeded to create a so-called “buffer zone” between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, destroying homes within 500 meters of the border with Gaza. More than 800 homes were demolished in the first phase of destruction, and Egypt now intends to expand the clearance to an entire kilometer inside the Egyptian border.

Alemawi’s brother, Hamed, is 44 years THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

old and the father of six children. A supermarket owner, he, too, is still feeling the economic effects of Israel’s 51-day assault.

For him and his 1.8 million fellow Gazans, the situation deteriorates with every passing day.

From a pre-war level of 500 NIS in daily sales, his store now takes in 300 NIS a day—which has to cover operating expenses and all bills. In addition, he allows people who have no cash to purchase essential items on credit.

“There are people who have debts of up to 1,200 NIS, and after that it stops,” he said, aware that everyone is suffering to varying degrees.

Salem Alemawi sees the situation in Gaza as continuing to worsen, with no hope on the horizon. “You fall in a hole and it just gets deeper and deeper,” he lamented.

Nor does he see much hope for his children. True, they go to school, but they could end up being burdened with endless loans. Their father lives on the charity of his two brothers who earn their wages from the PA, but it is not enough for everyone to survive on.

“In six years, we have lived through three big Israeli wars,” he notes. Ironically, the aftermath of war increases the demand for Salem’s construction materials. But he can only meet this demand if the international community shows more interest, compassion and determination in rebuilding Gaza after Israel’s most recent assault.

Abu Ayman, 59, builds and installs aluminum windows. With tens of thousands of windows needing to be replaced as the cold winter weather arrives, he thought his business would do well. This has not been the case, however, and he sits in his tiny shop waiting for customers. No one has money to pay him, yet at the end of every business day he must also pay his glass and aluminum supplier.

“In the old days, we used to get glass and aluminum cheaper, through the tunnels,” he said, “but now it comes through Israeli-controlled crossings and is very heavily taxed.”

Window frames that used to come through the tunnels from Egypt cost him 200 NIS. Now, as taxed by Israel, he must pay 350 NIS. But with no one able to pay, Abu Ayman finds himself working for credit he doubts will be repaid soon.

“I have about 150,000 NIS in debts, from JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

omer_18-19_Gaza on the Ground 12/11/14 9:14 PM Page 19

(Advertisement)

people who have taken services from me,” he told the Washington Report.

Prior to Israel’s siege of Gaza, Abu Ayman recalled, there were golden days when he would earn 10,000 NIS a month working in Israel. Now he faces only frustration from the business he so patiently built in the hope of supporting his family.

The economy of this coastal enclave is now in a state of total collapse. According to a United Nations report on Assistance to the Palestinian People, this is due primarily to the accumulated effect of seven years of Israel’s devastating blockade and its three wars on Gaza, in 2008-9, 2012 and 2014.

The 2014 report, compiled by the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), details how the deteriorating Palestinian economy, largely rooted in the territory’s occupied status, has resulted in weak growth, a precarious fiscal position, forced dependence on the Israeli economy, mass unemployment, wider and deeper poverty and greater food insecurity.

During its most recent assault, Israel targeted most of the factories in Gaza employing local people, including the Al-Awda factory that manufactures food items and products, including Gazan cookies, children’s biscuits and soft drinks.

When Israeli tanks shelled his factory JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

over the summer, says owner Mohammed Al-Telbani, soldiers knew it was a food factory, but destroyed it anyway.

Al-Awda used to employ 450 workers.

Now only one food line is functioning, and employees work only one day per week.

According to Palestinian economist Dr. Maher Al-Taba’a, Gaza’s economy collapsed after Israel’s summer war, and the results, including mass unemployment, could soon affect 50 percent of the population.

“Gaza’s industrial factories—plastic, carton and nylon—were all targeted during the war in an Israeli attempt to target the Palestinian economy,” he said.

The Israeli military bombed more than 360 factories and manufacturing plants during its war on Gaza. Hundreds more factories were forced to shut down as a result of indirect targeting and the massive slaughter of cows and other animals providing milk, meat and cheese to Gaza factories.

Even though almost all of the Al-Awda factory’s warehouse stock was burned, its workers continue to challenge the blockade and have returned to work with what little is left.

Manal Hassan, the factory’s executive director, is still puzzled as to why her workplace was targeted, at a loss to factory owners of $30 million.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

“This was a factory just for biscuits and ice-cream, not guns!” she said sadly, looking through her glasses at the massive destruction that still remains after more than three months.

In December, King Abdullah of Jordan told American television journalist Charlie Rose that a new Israeli war on Gaza is just a matter of time. ❑

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sprusanksy_20-21_Special Report 12/11/14 9:27 PM Page 20

Israel’s Disaffected Druze SpecialReport

Story and Photos by Dale Sprusansky

rael. Netanyahu sought to further placate concerns by announcing his intent to submit a plan for significant government investment in Druze communities.

It remains to be seen how the Druze community will respond to these government overtures.

STAFF PHOTO D. SPRUSANSKY

A Secretive and Loyal People

The view into Syria from the Druze village of Majdal Shams in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

In June, this reporter traveled to Israel and Palestine with a Sabeel delegation of individuals from the United States and Canada to explore the religious and political climate of the Holy Land. This article is the third in a series examining our findings and reflections. fter two of their co-religionists serv-

Aing in the Israeli police force were

killed in Palestinian terrorist attacks in Jerusalem in November, Israel’s minority Druze population became unexpected heroes of the Zionist cause.

Ordinary Israeli Jewish citizens and politicians alike expressed their gratitude and condolences to the family of Police Master Sergeant Zidan Saif after he succumbed to wounds sustained in a Nov. 18 attack on a Jerusalem synagogue. A similar farewell was given to Border Police Chief Inspector Jedan Assad, who was killed when a Palestinian drove a car into a crowd of people at a Jerusalem light rail station on Nov. 5.

These two unfortunate incidents provided the Israeli government the opportunity to celebrate and reinforce the “special relationship” it claims to share with the country’s 130,000 Druze. “You are our very flesh. You are an organic part of Israeli society,” Israeli Prime Minister Dale Sprusansky is assistant editor of the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs.

20

Binyamin Netanyahu told Druze leaders on Nov. 26. “Your heroic policemen and soldiers have fallen in order to defend the state and all its citizens, but we will defend your rights and your security.”

Days after the prime minister’s remarks, however, it became clear that many Druze question his sincerity. Druze throughout the country denounced the Netanyahu-endorsed “Jewish state” Knesset bill, which would define Israel as “the nation-state of the Jewish people” and, in some drafts, remove Arabic as a national language. The bill’s critics claim that the legislation pushes Israel further away from democracy and closer to ethnocracy.

Murat Saif, the brother of the slain Druze police officer, told Israel Radio he would discourage individuals in his community from enlisting in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) because the Knesset bill differentiates between “Druze and Jewish blood.” Meanwhile, Israel’s ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Bahij Mansour, who is Druze, also slammed the proposed bill. “This law sends a sharp and clear message to the Druze of Israel: ‘You are not our allies,’” he penned in a Haaretz op-ed.

Following this controversy, conservative Knesset member Danny Danon proposed an amendment to the “Jewish state” bill that would call for affirmative action for minority communities, such as the Druze, who take an active part in defending IsTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

There are believed to be 1 to 2 million Druze alive today, nearly all of whom live in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Israel.

Druze, who are Arabs, can be found mostly in the Galilee and Mount Carmel in Israel, and in the occupied Golan Heights. They practice a secretive monotheistic faith that has its roots in Islam, but borrows from other philosophies and religions. Typically Druze are ostracized from official Islamic circles due to their belief in reincarnation, their disbelief in the Five Pillars of Islam, and other “un-Islamic” dogma.

Druze also are known for being loyal to the country in which they live. This likely explains why many Syrian Druze still support President Bashar al-Assad in Syria and why Druze historically have been more accepting of the Israeli colonial project than other Arab groups. Unlike other Arabs in Israel, Druze have been subject to conscription in the IDF since 1956. In fact, a higher percentage of Israeli Druze (83 percent) enlist in the IDF than do Israeli Jews (75 percent).

Despite these statistics, there has been a consistent—and some would say growing—opposition to Israeli government policies among the country’s Druze population.

Refuse, Your Nation Will Protect You is an organization launched in March 2014 by young Druze that encourages their peers to refuse to serve in the IDF. Co-founder Alaa Muhanna said Druze must be taught the truth about their identity to ensure they do not believe Israeli propaganda. “We are brainwashed,” he lamented. “People don’t know their own identity, they are on the Israeli side against themselves.”

The truth, Muhanna said, is that Israel uses Druze to divide and control the Arab population. (Arabs make up 20 percent of Israel’s citizens, with Druze comprising roughly 8 percent of the Arab population.)

In 1962, he noted, Israel recognized Druze as a separate nationality on internal identification cards—no longer categorizing them as Arabs. This he considers absurd.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

sprusanksy_20-21_Special Report 12/11/14 9:27 PM Page 21

Seeking Justice in the Golan Heights North of Muhanna’s home in the Galilee, the Druze of the occupied Golan Heights face a different set of challenges. While Muhanna and Druze in Israel proper are full citizens of Israel, the same is not true of Druze in the Golan Heights.

Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 war. In 1981, the government implemented Israeli law over the territory and granted its remaining Arab residents permanent residency—but not citizenship.

Dr. Maray Taisseer, general director of the organization Golan for Development of the Arab Villages, lives in Majdal Shams, one of five Druze villages that remain in the Golan Heights. Many families were divided when the Golan Heights was separated from Syria, he explained, and he himself has three brothers who remain in Syria. Before the Internet era, he noted, the valley that separates his village from Syria was known as the “Valley of Tears” because families would shout across the valley to communicate with one another.

Taisseer and many of his neighbors refuse to acknowledge Israeli control over their village. Majdal Shams is a part of Syria, they maintain, and ought to be freed JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

from occupation.

Pointing out that Israel claims it seized the Golan Heights for security reasons, citing Syria’s use of the area to launch attacks, he asked why, if this is true, Israel acted so quickly to move civilians into its “cushion of security.” Israel began establishing Jewish-only settlements within one month of capturing the area, Taisseer said, adding, “The first settlement was not built in the West Bank or Gaza, it was built An abandoned Syrian church that was attacked by Israel durin the Golan Heights.” ing its seizure of the Golan Heights in 1967.

Arabs also were swiftly removed from the Golan Heights in the two they had built 650 tanks in 3 years, Israeli months following the seizure, Taisseer said. authorities began demanding that permits Before 1967, 130,000 Arabs inhabited 139 be obtained to build the tanks, and even villages in the area. Now, he noted, 20,000 attempted, unsuccessfully, to levy a tax on water collected by the tanks, insisting that native Syrians remain in just 5 villages.

Driving through the Golan Heights rain that falls over the Golan Heights is today, ones sees the slightest remnants of state water. According to Taisseer, no these lost Arab villages. Piles of rubble lie tanks have been built since 1986 because where villages once prospered, while aban- it’s virtually impossible to secure the necdoned and bombed-out churches and essary permits.

Today, Druze have better access to water, mosques sit in disrepair. Without a trained eye, one can easily pass through the Golan Taisseer said, but distribution is far from Heights without even realizing they are equal, with settlers receiving nine times driving through and over the remains of the water, while Druze are charged three times the price. razed villages.

The leveled Arab villages have been replaced by 33 Jewish settlements, which Loyal, Indeed house about 18,000 individuals, Taisseer Wherever they reside in territory connoted. Today Arabs control only 5 percent trolled by Israel, Druze are indeed loyal of the land in the Golan Heights, he said, subjects of their nation. However, not all with the remainder belonging to settlers. Druze identify Israel as their country.

At one point, Druze had to plant apple Muhanna views himself as a Palestinian trees on empty land in order to ensure Is- and is fiercely devoted to the rights of that rael did not claim the property as state nation and its people. Taisseer, on the land, he noted: “It gave us some sort of other hand, identifies as a Syrian and folprotection from land confiscation.” lows that country’s affairs closely. Other But Taisseer believes it was water, not Druze—perhaps the majority—view Israel land, that drew Israel to the Golan Heights. as their nation and actively participate in While much of Israel is relatively dry, the the life of the country.

Golan Heights receives an average of 59 It is clear, however, that Israel cannot inches of rain per year. Israel uses this area take the loyalty of the Druze for granted. to produce 25 percent of its high quality From the Golan Heights to the Galilee there water supply, he noted. are pockets of Druze who disavow themDruze themselves have limited access to selves of any allegiance to the state. Those water in the Golan Heights, Taisseer ex- who, perhaps tepidly, follow the status quo plained. Between 1967 and 1990, they risk being disenfranchised by laws such as were not allowed to remove water from the proposed “Jewish state” bill. If the Lake Ram—the only natural lake in the en- self-proclaimed Jewish state continues tire territory. Settlers living 20 or 30 miles down the path toward becoming an ethfrom the lake were given access, however. nocracy, it likely will push more Druze In response, Druze started building into Muhanna’s welcoming arms. Once tanks to collect rain water in 1984. After again, Israel may be its own worst enemy. ❑ STAFF PHOTO D. SPRUSANSKY

“We are Arabs....It’s totally ridiculous, we talk Arabic and our religion is written in Arabic,” he noted.

Muhanna took it a step further: “Druze are Palestinians,” he maintained. Palestine is the country that will protect Druze refuseniks, he said, explaining his organization’s name.

After just a few months, Muhanna, who refused military service in 1999, said his group has successfully persuaded five Druze to say no to the IDF. Many, he noted, are from families that have traditionally held a favorable view of Israel.

“Our refuseniks today, they are coming from houses that have served in the army, houses that are supporting Israel and its politics,” he explained, “and they are saying to their families, ‘enough is enough, we are not going to serve in the army,’ and they are kicked out of their houses.”

Muhanna hopes that Israel’s Arab citizens will unite (there are occasional clashes between Druze and other Israeli Arabs who view Druze as traitors) to demand equal rights and justice. “We hope one day people will stop being quiet and go to the streets,” he said. “If 5 percent of us goes and closes the streets all over the country, we can change the reality.” This, he noted, is what young people across the Arab world did in 2011.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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williams_22-23_United Nations Report 12/11/14 9:25 PM Page 22

Procrastination and Hypocrisy Characterize Resolutions on Palestine, Nuclear Weapons

By Ian Williams s usual, as 2014 draws to a close,

APalestine and Israel dominate the con-

tested part of the U.N. agenda. And as usual, the debates and diplomatic tussles involve huge amounts of hypocrisy. The U.S. is firmly and vociferously against countries that break international law, and against nuclear proliferation—unless, of course, one particular member state with too many friends in Congress is on the agenda.

In December, the Arab states were about to move a resolution in the Security Council to accept Palestine into full U.N. membership, which certainly has the backing of most of the U.N. members in the General Assembly. It also called for Israeli withdrawal from the occupied territories by 2016—nearly half a century since Israel’s illegal occupation began.

A group of European states reportedly is countering with a procrastinatory resolution calling for a two-year timeline for peace talks. It is insincere and unprincipled, even though it probably will be superficially less sensitive to Israeli standing than American diplomats would dare be. For a start, it almost will certainly not include any sanctions on Israel for continuing to build settlements and continuing its joint blockade of Gaza with Egypt. Sadly, there are signs that the Arabs might accept it.

As graphically demonstrated in the recent votes in various European parliaments—Ireland, France and Britain, for example—European leaders have a different problem from their American counterparts. The faintest of criticism of Israeli law-breaking from the White House or State Department will have several hundred congressmen whipped in to howl their protests. In contrast, even though European parliamentarians are well aware of the David-and-Goliath disparity between the Palestinians under occupation and their massively armed occupiers, the leaders of the major European countries persist in depicting it as a fair fight between opponents of equivalent strength.

In effect, they adopt the longstanding Ian Williams is a free-lance journalist based at the United Nations who blogs at <www. deadlinepundit.blogspot.com>.

22

U.S. position that, when the international community sees a recidivist law-breaker in action, the appropriate response is to call upon the victim to enter into unconditional and unsupported negotiations with the criminal, and prepare to make the “painful” but “necessary” concessions to secure peace.

he ruling elites of T Europe do not have Obama’s excuse of domestic pressure.

As we have seen over more than a decade, the Palestinians have been better global citizens. They have called upon the Israelis to obey the law—and on the great powers to enforce it. Over several decades now at the United Nations and in similar related bodies, such as the signatories of the Geneva Convention, they have built a supporting architecture of legal decisions and binding resolutions.

Far from enforcing the international laws and conventions the Palestinians have invoked, however, the U.S. and the Europeans have poured treasure, armaments and diplomatic support to the world’s number one scofflaw. Germany provides advanced nuclear-capable submarines to the world’s biggest nuclear power outside the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Confronted with Israel’s defiance of its appeals over settlements, Washington replenishes and enhances the weapons stockpiles that Israel used in its summer assault on Gaza.

The ruling elites of Europe do not even have Obama’s excuse of domestic pressure.

Their policy is to support Israel in the teeth of their domestic constituencies’ recognition of the justice of the Palestinian case. To make matters worse, they are supporting an Israeli government that is the most reactionary and recalcitrant in the history of the self-proclaimed Jewish state.

While previous Israeli Labor governments would carry out very similar policies to their Likud successors—they did, after all, begin the annexations and settlement building—they at least took care to give lip service to international law. SomeTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

United Nations Report

how Likud and its even more vicious coalition partners are now respected by the political leaders of Europe and even Canada, who applaud their every whim.

In preparing for the proposed EU Security Council resolution, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius talked about the “necessary consensus” for successful talks, overlooking the fact that his boss, President François Hollande, in a recent visit to the country, spoke of his “Love for Israel.”

Honest brokers should not make such statements.

So what to make of the planned European resolution? What is achieved by yet another deadline? Oslo set 1999 as the deadline for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The 2003 Quartet Roadmap set 2005.

Bush’s 2007 Annapolis summit set out a two-state solution by 2008, and in 2010 President Barack Obama called for the creation of a Palestinian state by 2011. A twoyear timeline to 2016 for negotiations by the parties just legitimizes Israeli procrastination and gives the occupiers more time to create more facts for the Palestinians to painfully compromise with.

After Israel’s recent settlement announcements, the EU met and urged it “to reverse these decisions which run counter to international law and directly threaten the two-state solution. Recent settlement activity in East Jerusalem seriously jeopardizes the possibility of Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states. Recalling that settlements are illegal under international law, the EU and its Member States remain committed to ensure continued, full and effective implementation of existing EU legislation and bilateral arrangements applicable to settlement products.”

However, despite the “non-paper” leaked to Haaretz outlining potential EU measures to obtain Israeli cooperation, it is highly unlikely that the Hollandes, Osbornes and Merkels of the EU will allow their parliaments and civil servants to implement them.

These pious sentiments about negotiated peace and a two-state solution are repeated regularly by Western leaders in complete denial of Israeli government statements JANUARAY/FEBRUARY 2015

williams_22-23_United Nations Report 12/11/14 9:25 PM Page 23

that either outright deny that they have agreed to a Palestinian state ever, or reinterpret it so that it would make South Africa’s former Bantustans seem robustly sovereign in contrast.

Israel’s Palestinian state would have even less independence than the coterie of Pacific atolls that are usually Washington’s only supporters over Israel in the General Assembly. This year there was a welcome defector. The Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands are former U.S. “Strategic Trust Territories” whose defense and budget is dependent on the U.S. and Congress, so they have solid reasons for doing what AIPAC says.

To gain its quasi-independence, Palau had a long and bitter tussle to exclude nuclear weapons from Washington’s arrangements for its defense, which makes its refusal to support the December 2014 resolution calling for nuclear disarmament, discussed below, even more hypocritical than usual.

This year, one of Palau’s neighbors, the Marshall Islands, has at least learned the benefits of consistency. Although as dependent as its neighboring atoll states on Congress, it is serious about nuclear weaponry—and with good cause, since many of the biggest American H bomb tests there left depopulated radioactive islands. Itsy bitsy, teeny weeny little island of Bikini had almost two dozen bombs exploded on its flimsy territory.

Now the Marshall Islands has gone to the International Court of Justice for a ruling on the failure of all nine nuclear nations to disarm, and to require them to stop maintaining and modernizing their weaponry as well as take substantial steps to disarmament.

Not Quite a Nuclear-Free Middle East The General Assembly overwhelmingly approved a Dec. 2 Egyptian-inspired resolution calling for a nuclear-free Middle East—which, of course, is official policy, even for the five nuclear powers who have signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty, including the U.S. The resolution carried in a 161-5 vote, with the United States, Canada, Palau, Micronesia and, of course, Israel, against, while 18 cowardly countries abstained. So why would such countries vote against a resolution whose principles they have publicly endorsed? Because at Arab insistence, the resolution called on Israel to “accede to that treaty without further delay, not to develop, produce, test or otherwise acquire nuclear weapons, to renounce possession of JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

nuclear weapons” and to put its nuclear facilities under the safeguard of the IAEA. Of course Israel, which is openly discussing a pre-emptive military strike against Iran for possibly seeking weapons capability, probably has several hundred nuclear warheads itself.

U.S. representative Robert Wood had said the resolution “fails to meet the fundamental tests of fairness and balance. It confines itself to expressions of concern about the activities of a single country.”

His statement epitomizes the absurdities of Washington’s position. In a resolution calling for a U.S.-backed nuclear-free zone in the Middle East, it is “unfair” and “unbalanced” to mention the one state in the region that has nukes!

As the General Assembly took Israel to task for its nuclear arsenal, a team of United Nations investigators arrived in the Gaza Strip for a three-week probe into Israeli air strikes on U.N. premises during Israel’s summer onslaught. To maintain fairness and balance, it is also going to investigate Hamas weapons allegedly stored at some UNRWA schools during the conflict. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon set up the Independent Board of Inquiry after his October visit to the Strip (see Nov./Dec. 2014 Washington Report, p. 12).

“It is specifically to look at violations of neutrality of U.N. installations,” said UNRWA’s Bob Turner. Israeli artillery and tank shells hit at least six U.N. premises, killing 12 in one school alone, but the Israelis have tried to obscure that issue with counter-accusations of weaponry in the schools.

Israel is not hampering the investigation and is even supposed to be cooperating.

The U.N. Human Rights Council also has mandated an investigation of the circumstances of the war, which brings back unhappy memories of how the Goldstone Report—and, indeed, South Africa’s Judge Richard Goldstone himself—were manipulated and distorted.

It is unlikely to produce too much in the way of results, however. The same Palestinian leaders who now appear to be mulling the EU dilution of the resolution on Palestine membership refuse to adhere to the International Criminal Court, which could then make Israeli actions in Gaza indictable. It would be embarrassing to the European leaders who have professed support for the Court, but made plain that their enthusiasm would not extend to prosecutions of Israelis. As always, hypocrisy is the constant theme of Middle East diplomacy. ❑ THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Nuclear Chicken…

Continued from page 11

the “breakout” point, from which a dash to nuclear weapons in three to six months will be possible. What they don’t discuss is that besides Iran not having any nuclear weapons, it will have a very difficult task miniaturizing and hardening one to fit it into a missile warhead. Tehran lacks reliable, accurate medium-range missiles to deliver a nuclear strike. Its Shahab-3 is a glorified Soviet/North Korean Scud that is wildly inaccurate, mechanically unreliable, and slow to fuel.

Even so, Israel and its U.S. congressional allies now insist the danger is a mad mullah in Tehran deciding to commit nuclear hara-kiri to destroy Israel. The “mad mullah” was a favorite bogeyman of the Victorian British Empire. Iran’s leadership is neither mad, stupid nor suicidal.

Far more important, who would Iran attack if it had nuclear weapons? The USA or Israel? Iran has no long-range missiles.

Iran would be vaporized minutes after launching a nuclear strike. Israel’s extensive nuclear arsenal—missiles, strike aircraft, submarine-launched missiles— would survive any surprise first strike.

Iran would be quickly destroyed by Israel’s counter-strike.

The real reason for simmering hostility between Israel and Iran is Palestine. Now that most of the feeble Arab states have been removed from the former anti-Israel coalition, the only remaining stalwart defender of Palestinian rights—and opponent of Israel’s total absorption of the West Bank and Golan—is Iran.

For Israel’s security, the best option is to make peace with Iran—which used to be a close Israeli ally. But Israel’s current hardright leaders are determined to cement Israel’s rule over the West Bank even if it means risking war with Iran.

Israel cleverly concealed its nuclear weapons program from American inspectors, according to defector Mordechai Vanunu. Israel no doubt fears that Iran is doing exactly the same. My long-standing proposal has been for Israel and Iran to mutually inspect one another’s nuclear facilities along with U.N. staff.

But time for a reasonable solution to Iran’s nuclear challenge is running out.

Once the Republicans take over the U.S. Senate is January 2015, Israel’s influence over Congress will become decisive and irresistible. Iran knows this and is feeling the pressure mounting. ❑ 23

pfaff_24_Special Report 12/11/14 4:59 PM Page 24

Chuck Hagel: A Soldier Among Chickenhawks SpecialReport

By William Pfaff

MARK WILSON/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

thought a social embarrassment, especially if he calls himself “Chuck.”)

Sgt. Hagel’s real problem seems to have been to support too many wars for President Barack Obama (agreeing with the generals that airplanes don’t win wars) and too few of them for the Pentagon and some of the aggressively ideological ladies in the State Department and on the White House staff.

Outgoing Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel at Joint Base Andrews, The president was MD, as he prepares to leave for an unannounced visit to Afghanistan, elected on a platDec. 5, 2014. form of ending the war in Iraq, already huck Hagel’s departure from his post presumed effectively won, and to expedite as defense secretary has been attrib- victory in the more important war in uted to his failure to fit in with the Obama Afghanistan, where Osama bin Laden made cabinet’s crowd. Among his other reported his home.

Many of Secretary Hagel’s fellow Repubdeficiencies was that he was only a licans blame him because he did not find a sergeant in Vietnam, twice wounded.

A twice-wounded veteran, I should way to override Iraq’s refusal to allow think, would make him a rare specimen in American forces to remain in their country a Washington packed full of senators and under the only circumstances the Pentagon congressmen, and State Department and would accept—with a status of forces National Security Council staff who as- agreement that preserved them from any sume that they know more about war than kind of Iraqi oversight or any accountabilmilitary theorist Carl von Clausewitz, and ity to Iraqi officials or courts. If he had unwounded but heavily decorated gener- done so (and how? this was a matter of als eager to get back to showing their stuff, Iraq’s national sovereignty) his critics say that the so-called Islamic State would have as in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

(As I have noted before, the most cele- been strangled in its crib.

In Afghanistan the Pentagon did kill the brated of those, David Petraeus, when he resigned from the army, was entitled to dis- 9/11 villain, Osama bin Laden (before play more than 50 items of military adorn- Hagel’s time). Under Hagel’s stewardship ment up one side and down the other of the generals worked out a status of forces his chest, none of them an award for agreement allowing some U.S. troops to rewounds suffered in combat. One under- main in that country with a limited misstands why a former sergeant may be sion to 2016, beyond their previously agreed departure date at the end of 2014.

William Pfaff is the author of The Irony of What they will accomplish is not by any Manifest Destiny: The Tragedy of Amer- stretch of imagination the victory Mr. ica’s Foreign Policy. Copyright © 2014 by Obama promised. Whether they will acTribune Media Services International. All complish anything at all, beyond surviving, is questionable. Afghanistan unhaprights reserved.

C

24

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

pily is headed back under the control of the Taliban, who ruled it until driven out

by American B-52s in 2001.

The Obama administration, in its sunset years, is in an impossible situation. Indeed, it is not merely the administration for which this is true; it is true too of the United States itself, so far as its foreign policy is concerned.

The country, after 14 years of essentially futile war in the Middle East and South Asia, discovers itself with a corrupt and incompetent Shia government ally in Iraq, which cannot defend itself from its new Sunni would-be caliphate rival’s attacks without the air intervention of a dubious American-invented foreign “coalition,” itself reluctant to fight on the ground.

Nor is the Pentagon or the administration (presently) willing to fight another ground war. Yet Mr. Obama has promised to defeat the Islamic State army. Congress calls for it. And what may be called the humanitarian faction in the National Security Council and the State Department has pushed for intervention in Syria to support a nebulous “moderate” rebel faction, with the goal of rescuing Muslims from jihadists and oppressors of women, and building democracy….

Finally, Washington harbors its irreducible band of neoconservatives linked to reactionary and reckless Israeli Zionists on the brink of a new civil war with the Palestinians, thus contributing to the Islamic upheaval against the West.

The neoconservatives’ other preoccupation is to bring Ukraine into NATO, overthrow Vladimir Putin, undermine Putin’s Russia, make it a capitalist democracy, break its developing link to China, and reestablish the United States as the world’s much-loved leader of all the democracies for the century to come. But neither I nor—we may hope—Barack Obama has the time or space to go into that subject.

As for Chuck (Charles Timothy) Hagel, a Nebraskan born in North Platte (where this writer spent the first year of his infancy amidst prairie cold and snow), he should not go home but to Florida, where all Nebraskans go in wintertime, and where he might find the politics even stranger than in Washington. ❑ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

hanley_25_Special Report 12/11/14 5:00 PM Page 25

School Board Decision Disappoints Equality 4 Eid Supporters SpecialReport

By Delinda C. Hanley y hands-down favorite 4th of July

Delinda C. Hanley is news editor of the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

Residents pack the Montgomery County, MD Public Schools Board of Education hearing. measure that data because the U.S. census does not track religion.

Six American school systems with large Muslim populations close down for Eid: Burlington, VT; Cambridge, MA; Dearborn, MI; Paterson, NJ; Skokie, IL; and Trenton, NJ. Would Maryland be next?

As each school board member spoke, much of the excitement and air was sucked out of the room. The board voted 7 to 1 that the best solution was to strip all religious references from the calendar. Jewish and Christian holidays will no longer be labeled on the calendar, although schools will continue to be closed on those days. Board members emphasized that days off are granted because of state law or high absenteeism, not to recognize religious occasions.

That was not what the coalition wanted to hear. “We don’t think that it’s fair to punish any other faith group in our quest for equality,” said Zainab Chaudry, Equality 4 Eid’s co-chair. Saqib Ali, the other cochair, said he, too, was frustrated by the recommendation. “It seems the school administration is working very hard to find excuses, rationalization and false reasoning to deny the Muslim community equality.”

Michael A. Durso, who cast the lone vote against the 2015 “religion-neutral” calendar, said that for a county that celebrates its diversity, “we come off very insensitive.”

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

the National Mall as well as iconic smalltown parades—was a barbecue at a Montgomery County, MD mosque. Eating hotdogs, burgers and corn-on-the-cob alongside local police, teachers, elected officials, as well as Jewish, Christian, Hindu and Muslim neighbors, made me proud of this nation’s rich cultural mosaic.

I thought I was about to participate in another all-American feel-good experience on Nov. 11, as I joined a standing-roomonly crowd filling a Montgomery County Public Schools Board of Education hearing in Rockville, MD. The room buzzed with excitement as the MCPS school board met to vote on adding Eid al-Adha to the 2015 school calendar. The Equality 4 Eid coalition had requested that the Islamic holiday be given equal billing on the calendar with the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, noting that the two fall on the same day in 2015.

Montgomery County schools are closed on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Christmas Eve and Christmas, Good Friday, the day after Easter, as well as nonreligious holidays.

Last year the school board had denied the Muslim community’s request to recognize at least one Muslim holy day, but this time around, after a year of news conferences, meetings, letters and interviews, Equality 4 Eid supporters hoped for success.

The school system currently recognizes Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha by declaring them district-wide non-testing days and giving Muslim students excused absences.

Parents testified that teachers do schedule quizzes, tests and homework assignments on Islamic holidays, and their children who choose to stay home miss classroom instruction time and are ineligible for perfect attendance awards.

There are an approximately 7 million Muslims in the U.S., and about 250,000 in the Washington, DC area. Lily Qi, the county’s liaison to Asian and Middle Eastern communities, estimates that about 6 percent of the county is Muslim, although she admits there is no way to accurately

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

Mcelebration—eclipsing fireworks on

Saqib Ali, co-chair of Equality 4 Eid, speaks to reporters after the vote.

Petula Dvorak’s headline in her Nov. 13 Washington Post column read, “Montgomery County school board offers a lesson in intolerance.” Muslim parents have been asking for years—without success— to have at least one of their two major holidays recognized, she wrote. “They don’t want their children to have to choose between their devotion to their faith and their dedication to their schoolwork.” InContinued on page 35 25

maidhc-liberty_26-27_Special Report 12/11/14 8:49 PM Page 26

Behind the USS Liberty Cover-up SpecialReport

By Maidhc Ó Cathail

WWW.GTR5.COM

“[T]hey know if he is thinking about running again he’s going to need money for his campaign,” said Inman, who from 1977 to 1981 directed the National Security Agency, the U.S. intelligence agency under whose aegis the USS Liberty had been dispatched to the eastern Mediterranean. “So alleging that he’s blood-libeling is going to arouse the Jewish donors.”

The Israeli government hired teams of lawyers, including close friends of Johnson, the narrator added, and began an “all-out offensive” to influence media coverage of the attack, leaning on them “to kill critical stories” and slant others in Israel’s favor.

“There was a campaign mounted to see what could be done about returning Johnson to his normal, predictable proIsraeli position,” Hughes said.

“Efforts were to be made to remind the president of the delicacy of his own position, that he personally might lose support for his run for reelection in 1968.”

The course of the USS Liberty on June 8, 1967. The Israeli attack began at 1400 hours. he Day Israel Attacked America,”

“Tan investigation into Israel’s deadly

June 8, 1967 attack on the USS Liberty at the height of the Arab-Israeli Six-Day War, was aired recently on Al Jazeera America.

Directed by British filmmaker Richard Belfield, the documentary confirms not only that the attack on the U.S. Navy spy ship was deliberate—an undisputed fact long accepted by all but the most shameless Israeli apologists—but reveals, perhaps for the first time, how Tel Aviv was able to induce the U.S. government to cover up an attack that killed 34 and injured 171 of its own seamen by a supposed “ally.”

“It was especially tough for Lyndon Johnson, to date the most pro-Israeli American president in history,” the film’s narrator observed. According to Tom Hughes, the State Department’s director of intelligence and re-

Maidhc Ó Cathail is a widely published writer and political analyst. He is also the creator and editor of The Passionate Attachment blog, which focuses primarily on the U.S.-Israeli relationship.

26

search at the time of the Liberty attack, “Johnson was in a very tough mood.”

As an indication of Johnson’s initial firm stance, Hughes recalled that Johnson briefed Newsweek magazine off the record that the Israelis had attacked the Liberty, suggesting that they may have done so because they believed that the naval intelligence-gathering ship had been intercepting Israeli as well as Egyptian communications.

A post-interview leak revealing that it was the president himself who had briefed the media about the attack on the Liberty alarmed the Israeli Embassy in Washington and its friends in the major Jewish organizations, who intimated that Johnson’s Newsweek briefing “practically amounted to blood libel.”

The documentary’s narrator said declassified Israeli documents now show that “they were going to threaten President Johnson with ‘blood libel’—gross anti-Semitism— and that would end his political career.”

“Blackmail!” retired U.S. Navy Admiral Bobby Ray Inman frankly summed up Israel’s strategy to deal with Johnson.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Israelis Bearing Gifts Noting the cleverness of Israel’s tactics, the documentary revealed that after having identified the Vietnam War as Johnson’s “soft spot” it quietly provided him with “two extraordinary gifts.”

The first addressed the president’s bitterness toward many American Jewish organizations and community leaders over their opposition to his Vietnam policy. But as the Liberty crisis unfolded, Hughes said, “they were suddenly becoming more silent on Vietnam.” Johnson was made to understand that taking a more “moderate” position toward Israel over the attack would benefit him politically.

The second gift was a vital military one.

The U.S. military attaché in Tel Aviv received a surprise visit. “I think I have something you might be interested in,” a senior Israeli intelligence officer told him.

The Israelis had just crossed the Red Sea to JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

maidhc-liberty_26-27_Special Report 12/11/14 6:10 PM Page 27

capture the Egyptian military’s Soviet-supplied surface-to-air missiles, the same ones the North Vietnamese were using to bring down American aircraft on a daily basis.

As a show of gratitude, the U.S. government gave the Israelis two gifts in return.

The Johnson administration resupplied them with the weapons they had used in their six-day land grab of territory from Egypt, Jordan and Syria. The White House also decided to water down the Defense Department’s inquiry into the attack on the Liberty.

As Hughes explained, “Soon Johnson did respond, and took a much more lenient line and wished that the whole incident could be put behind us as soon as possible.”

Johnson’s “softer approach” to Israel was reflected in the U.S. Navy inquiry then underway onboard the Liberty. As one of the survivors recalled, the Liberty’s crew began to realize that “a cover-up was descending” upon them. Among key testimony ignored was the strafing of the Liberty’s deck with napalm and the machinegunning of the sinking ship’s lifeboats.

Without interviewing any Israelis involved in the attack, the U.S. court of inquiry rushed out a report—hurriedly completed in a mere 20 days—exonerating Israel from blame. Tel Aviv quickly followed up with its own report that concluded that the whole incident was “a series of mistakes, and that no one was to blame.”

Ignoring a secret telegram from its ambassador in Washington advising that Tel Aviv admit its guilt in light of America’s possession of an incriminating audio tape of the attack, Israel instead shifted its focus to repairing the damage to its relationship with the U.S. “The Israelis have always been very skillful at tracking what the U.S. government is doing, saying, thinking, and effort[s] to influence it,” Inman pointed out.

“And the great advantage they have as compared to other countries is their influence on the Congress.”

A timely Washington Post report noted that “the Jewish lobby could help determine the outcome of 169 of the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.”

As Johnson considered his re-election prospects, Hughes said the “emotive” language used in earlier Pentagon press releases disappeared and was replaced by “a much more bland and neutral-sounding discourse.”

“But whatever was said to journalists,” the narrator added, “every U.S. intelliJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

gence head believed that the attack was intentional.” As one of them colorfully wrote at the time, “a nice whitewash for a group of ignorant, stupid and inept xxxxxxxx.”

Though shown but not mentioned in the film, the next sentence of the intelligence chief’s letter stated the obvious: “If the attackers had not been Hebrew there would have been quite a commotion.”

“The Jewish community has always been more generous than many of their other counterparts in supporting financially elections, political causes,” Inman observed. “In the process, that does translate into influence.”

Israel’s White House Friends Israel’s influence inside the White House was even more significant. “Many of Johnson’s closest friends and advisers were proIsraeli, and they reported back to Tel Aviv on his every move,” the film asserted.

If anything, this understated Israeli influence. As Grace Halsell, a staff writer for Johnson, later wrote, “Everyone around me, without exception, was pro-Israel.”

Thanks to its supporters surrounding Johnson, the narrator claimed that the Israeli government was able to constantly shift its story “to counter whatever new intelligence the White House received.”

To protect their contacts’ identity, the Israelis used codenames in their communications with them. “The Day Israel Attacked America,” however, revealed for the first time the identities of four of these pro-Israeli eyes and ears inside the Johnson administration.

“Hamlet” was Abe Feinberg, one of the most influential fund-raisers ever in Democratic Party politics, whose phone calls Johnson couldn’t afford to ignore; “Menashe” was Arthur Goldberg, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations; “Harari”

was David Ginsberg, a prominent Washington lawyer who represented the Israeli Embassy; and “Ilan” was Supreme Court Justice Abe Fortas, a longtime Johnson confidant who had dined with the president on the eve of the Six-Day War. It would hardly be an overstatement to say that the president owed his political career to “Ilan”/Fortas. As biographer Robert A. Caro has written, Johnson “largely through the legal genius of his ally Abe Fortas, managed, by a hairbreadth, to halt a federal court’s investigation into the stealing of the 1948 election,” in a reference to LBJ’s first Senate race.

According to the documentary, it was “Menashe”/Goldberg who supplied Israel with the key intelligence. Goldberg warned the Israelis that the U.S. had an audio tape that confirmed the Israeli pilots knew the Liberty was an American ship before they attacked.

“The strategy worked,” concluded Belfield’s documentary. “The U.S.-Israeli relationship proved to be stronger than the killing and injuring of more than 200 Americans.”

But it wasn’t always a foregone conclusion. As Hughes put it, “The American-Israeli relationship was very much at stake, and it was brought back from the precipice.”

“The Day Israel Attacked America” ends with a scene of surviving veterans of the USS Liberty laying a wreath on their murdered comrades’ memorial headstone and a prescient observation by the U.S. undersecretary of state at the time of the attack.

“It seemed clear to the Israelis that as American leaders did not have the courage to punish them for the blatant murder of American citizens,” George Ball noted, “they would let them get away with anything.” ❑

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

27

smith_28-29_Special Report 12/11/14 9:40 PM Page 28

Lawsuit Challenges U.S. “Ambiguity” Toward Israel’s Nuclear Arsenal SpecialReport

COURTESY PANORAMIO.COM

By Grant F. Smith

A 1987 Defense Department study found that scientists at Israel’s Weizmann Institute, pictured above, worked on lasers to enrich uranium used in Israeli nuclear weapons. n 1958 Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-

IGurion designated super-lobbyist Abra-

ham Feinberg as the North American coordinator to raise funds for Israel’s clandestine nuclear weapons program. Feinberg was a natural choice. He bundled Israel lobby funds for Democratic presidential campaigns from Harry S Truman to Lyndon B. Johnson. In the 1940s he led the charge to successfully beat back Justice Department attempts to prosecute a huge network of false front organizations illicitly smuggling surplus U.S. WW II weapons and equipment to Jewish fighters in Palestine for Israel’s “War of Independence.” On the atomic front, Feinberg chaperoned U.S. charities channeling hundreds of millions of tax-exempt donations into Israeli research organizations—such as the Weizmann Institute of Science—working on the bomb.

Grant F. Smith is director of the Institute for Research: Middle Eastern Policy, Inc. (IRmep) in Washington, DC. Filings in this lawsuit and other actions may be found at IRmep’s Center for Policy and Law Enforcement page at <http://IRmep.org/CFL.htm>.

28

The Israel lobby’s biggest obstacle in furthering Israel’s drive for the bomb was John F. Kennedy. After being elected president in 1960, Kennedy not only insisted on inspections of Israel’s Dimona nuclear weapons plant, but began subjecting key Israel lobby organizations to rigorous enforcement of the 1938 Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). After LBJ took over the White House, FARA enforcement largely ended, and the Johnson administration mostly looked the other way, even ignoring CIA and FBI alerts that Israeli agents were diverting weapons-grade uranium from an Apollo, Pennsylvania plant of the Nuclear Materials and Equipment Corporation (NUMEC) to Israel.

By the time Richard Nixon sat down with Prime Minister Golda Meir to discuss Israel’s de facto nuclear weapons, his main motivation was to avoid a “Zionist campaign to try to undermine” his administration, which he feared might result if U.S. officials threatened to withhold advanced conventional weapons transfers to Israel if it continued its clandestine nuclear weapons program. Rather than insist that Israel sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Treaty (NPT), Nixon and Meir crafted the “ambiguity” policy that remains to this day—that neither the U.S. nor Israel ever officially acknowledge that Israel possesses a nuclear weapons arsenal.

The late White House correspondent Helen Thomas tried to make President Barack Obama admit that Israel had nuclear weapons. “Do you know of any country in the Middle East that has nuclear weapons?” she asked him at a February 2009 White House press conference.

Obama dodged the question, saying he did not want to “speculate” on that subject.

Congress has never debated or held open hearings on Israel’s nuclear weapons program. A 2008 congressional report on nuclear proliferation excludes Israel and simply does “not take a position on the existence of Israeli nuclear weapons.” The penalties for lower level government officials making even passing references to Israel as a nuclear weapons state are swift and harsh. Los Alamos National Laboratory nuclear analyst James Doyle wrote candidly about Israel’s nuclear weapons for a magazine in 2013. After a congressional staffer read the article, which had passed a classification review, it was referred to classification officials for a second review.

Doyle’s pay was then cut, his home computer searched, and he was fired.

Two gag rules are known to exist as a result of Doyle’s unsuccessful appeals to get his job back. GEN-16 is a “no-comment” policy on “classified information in the public domain” (which President Obama apparently invoked). The other is “DOE Classification Bulletin WPN-136 on Foreign Nuclear Capabilities,” which is secret but presumably forbids publicly stating that Israel is a nuclear power.

While it is difficult to deny that the “ambiguity” muzzle has greatly benefited Israel and its U.S. lobby, it is an ongoing and costly disaster for American taxpayers. According to a September Google Consumer Survey, 64 percent of Americans believe Israel has nuclear weapons, while 6 in 10 think U.S. foreign aid to Israel is “too much.” (See Nov./Dec. 2014 Washington Report, p. 32.) Yet because it is official U.S. policy to pretend the existence of Israel’s arseJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

smith_28-29_Special Report 12/11/14 9:40 PM Page 29

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nal is unknown, a $3 billion-plus taxpayer giveaway of top-shelf American military aid, cash and intelligence support is delivered annually, despite Israel having long possessed the ultimate military deterrent.

And researchers and historians have long been stymied by the withholding of key U.S. government documents locked securely away from the public in National Archives and Records Administration vaults.

In a crisis or time of increased tension, Israel can threaten to use its arsenal as a lever to coerce the transfer of U.S. military supplies and other support rather than pursue peaceful alternatives. The international community views the U.S. as hypocritical when it cites the NPT in reference to Iran or North Korea. Mainstream American media rarely engage in meaningful discussions of the actual nuclear situation in the Middle East, as the lobby works to focus all attention on Iran. Ambiguity is also a public corruption issue, since it means NPT-related restrictions on U.S. foreign aid to clandestine nuclear states are simply ignored. With Congress mostly in the pocket of the Israel lobby, and presidential administrations unwilling to reopen the historical can of worms that created â&#x20AC;&#x153;ambiguity,â&#x20AC;? the only meaningful venue for challenging it for what it isâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an Israel-lobby-generated corruption-in-government issueâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is the court system.

On Sept. 23, 2014 IRmep sued the Department of Defense, asking a federal court judge to review and release an unclassified 1987 report titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Critical Technology Assessment in Israel and NATO Nations.â&#x20AC;? The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit cites public leaks of the reportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s explosive contents. According to the Risk Report of the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control, this â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pentagon-sponsored study found that Technion Universityâ&#x20AC;Śwas helping design Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nuclear missile re-entry vehicle. U.S. officials say Technionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physicists also worked in Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s secret weapon complex at Dimona, where an Israeli reactor makes plutonium for atomic bombs. In 1989, Cray was denied a license to sell a supercomputer to Technion because the university conducted research on nuclear-capable missiles. Hebrew University in Jerusalem also would be allowed to use the Cray supercomputer, even though the study said Hebrew University supplied physicists to Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nuclear lab at Soreq, where scientists were â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;developing the kind of [computer] codes which will enable them to make hydrogen bombs.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; And the university network includes the Weizmann Institute, whose scientists, the study said, studJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

-53,)-3

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WWW -USLIMLINKPAPER COM ied high energy physics and hydrodynamics needed for nuclear bomb design, and worked on lasers to enrich uranium, the most advanced method for making the material dropped on Hiroshima in 1945.â&#x20AC;?

The lawsuit details the two public interests IRmep believes outweigh the many FOIA exemptions and denial strategies the Department of Defense has used to block release. The first is that the â&#x20AC;&#x153;American Friendsâ&#x20AC;? branches of the Israeli entities engaged in nuclear weapons research and development raise approximately $170 million in tax-exempt contributions per year in the United States. The IRS has stated it doubts such activities have any tax-exempt social welfare purpose, thereby creating a â&#x20AC;&#x153;tax gapâ&#x20AC;? that other Americans should not have toâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but in fact doâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;make up.

The other public interest is compliance with the Symington and Glenn amendments to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. These laws prohibit foreign assistance to countries trafficking in nuclear enrichment equipment or technology out-

side international safeguards. The moment DoD verified that Israel was operating a clandestine weapons program outside the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty in 1987, Israel should have become ineligible to receive any of the $82 billion in U.S. taxpayer-funded foreign aid that was subsequently delivered.

The Department of Defense has reached deep into a voluminous bag of FOIA exemption tricks before and during the case.

Shortly before parties appeared in court on Nov. 20, it claimed that â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-disclosure agreementsâ&#x20AC;? were executed during production of the report, making it non-releasable in â&#x20AC;&#x153;perpetuity.â&#x20AC;? On Dec. 5, Laura Jennings from the U.S. Attorneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office declared that â&#x20AC;&#x153;DoD must contact the foreign government and they must request in writing that the info not be disclosed for an additional period stated in that written request. DoD is currently reaching out to Israel.â&#x20AC;?

If the scheduling order issued by presiding Judge Tanya Chutkan is met, the case should be resolved by Jan. 31, 2015.

IRmep has challenged the â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-disclosure agreementâ&#x20AC;? defense as â&#x20AC;&#x153;sock puppetryâ&#x20AC;? and plans to challenge the notion that release of an unclassified U.S. taxpayerfunded report of immense public interest should be the sole prerogative of Israel.

The DoDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claimed subordination to Israel in releasing its own report is yet another affirmation of the core problem that led to â&#x20AC;&#x153;ambiguityâ&#x20AC;? and many other foreign policy problemsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that Israel, through its vast, lavishly funded and ubiquitous lobby, continues to force U.S. government compliance with secrecy policies that have gutted public accountability while bilking U.S. taxpayers for decades. â?&#x2018;

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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JStreetPAC’s Claim to Be Number One Pro-Israel PAC Not Entirely Kosher SpecialReport

(L) ALEX WONG/GETTY IMAGES; (R) COURTESY WWW.TOMUDALL.SENATE.GOV

By Janet McMahon

While JStreetPAC endorsed nine incumbent senators, it made direct contributions to only two of them: cousins (l-r) Mark Udall (D-CO) and Tom Udall (D-NM). Both men lost. s Election Day 2014 drew to a close,

Awith votes still being counted, JStreet-

PAC announced it had “distributed over $2.4 million to its 95 endorsed candidates— the most in history by a pro-Israel PAC.” “For J Street, this lead is viewed as an important milestone, marking the group’s growing acceptance as a legitimate representative of pro-Israel interests,” Nathan Guttman wrote in the Nov. 14 edition of the Jewish weekly Forward.

In its FEC filings, however, JStreetPAC reported less than one-tenth of that amount: $219,344. Moreover, according to the Center for Responsive Politics (<www. opensecrets.org>), FEC records show that two other pro-Israel PACs (political action committees) gave more than JStreet: the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC), at $237,000, and the National Action Committee, at $262,689.

The difference in JStreet’s figures can be attributed to “bundling,” the practice whereby PACs pass on individual donations to favored candidates.

In JStreet’s case, while it endorsed 95 candidates, enabling its members to contribute to them via its website, it made diJanet McMahon is managing editor of the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs.

30

rect contributions to only 73. But its announced $2.4 million total combines its members’ pass-throughs as well as its own direct contributions.

For example, JStreet boasts that it “was a top bundler in the key Senate battlegrounds of New Hampshire, Georgia, Iowa and Colorado, raising an average of over $190,000 each for Jeanne Shaheen, Michelle Nunn, Bruce Braley and Mark Udall.” But of those, JStreet only made a direct contribution, of $2,000, to Udall (DCO). The other Senate candidate it contributed to was his cousin, Sen. Tom Udall (D-NM), to whom it gave $1,000. Both were defeated. In fact, of the “key” Senate races JStreet cited, only Shaheen was victorious.

“In the most watched key races, pro-Israel money came in from all sides,” the Forward’s Guttman noted. “Udall, for example, was also endorsed by BICPAC, a Long Island-based pro-Israel group considered to be centrist, and by the Tucson, Arizonabased Desert Caucus PAC. Shaheen, one of J Street’s top recipients, also got support from NORPAC, one of the largest pro-Israel PACs, and is considered to have a more hawkish view on Israel.”

Moreover, Guttman reported, “The Republican Jewish Coalition, who funneled its own PAC money into some of these key THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

races, argued that the results prove J Street’s PAC was ineffective.

“The RJC made a point of contributing to races in which J Street was involved, and as results came in it pointed to at least twothirds of these races won by the candidates RJC supported.”

In a Nov. 11 column titled, “After Election Day Debacle, J Street Deceives Supporters,” Paul Miller of the New York Observer—now edited by Ken Kurson, whom New York Magazine describes as “a former [Mayor Rudy] Giuliani operative”— charged that “The organization’s boast that ‘90 percent of JStreetPAC-endorsed incumbents are leading or have won’ is misleading at best and dishonest at worst.…What J Street isn’t advertising is that it lost key allies. Some of the most prominent anti-Israel voices in Congress are soon to be unemployed.”

Miller considers J Street “pro-Progressive, not pro-Israel,” and argues that “J Street’s specious ‘pro-Israel’ agenda…gives Progressives cover in the eyes of Jewish Democrats.”

Since its inception in 2007, J Street has struggled to be accepted as a legitimate pro-Israel organization, but has found the “pro-peace” component of its slogan to be problematic in its attempts to be included by the Israel lobby establishment. In 2009 Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., New Yorkborn Michael Oren, refused to attend its first national conference. More recently, this past April the umbrella Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations voted against accepting J Street as a member—despite the fact that the “pro-peace” group opposes the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement and did not oppose Israel’s murderous summer assault on Gaza.

But J Street’s ambitions have not sat well with the growing number of younger Jewish groups critical of Israeli actions. In an article in the July 20, 2014 Forward, Josh Nathan-Kazis examined the fallout from J Street’s stance on Operation Protective Edge. “‘J Street got really criticized [in 2008] for the way it handled it in Cast Lead,’ said Kathleen Peratis, a former J Street board member who split with the group in 2011 after visiting Gaza and meeting with Hamas officials. ‘It has made a very strong effort to modify its language…so that it can be a credible player and a credible applicant to JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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the [Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations].’”

Writing in Mondoweiss.net Sept. 3, Jewish scholar Marc H. Ellis was even more scathing: “Most Jews of Conscience dismiss J Street out of hand and for good reason.…They’re lobbyists for the Jewish center. They want an Israel they can be proud of or at least one that isn’t landing on the front page of The Hague’s burgeoning war crimes’ calendar.”

In its efforts to be considered a player by both camps, J Street has a history of being less than forthcoming. It previously was “misleading at best” when it seemed to deny that it had received funds from Jewish financier George Soros. As Chris Good explained in a Sept. 24, 2010 post on <www.theatlantic.com>: “The group also had posted on its website, as of last night, that Soros was not a founder or J Street's primary funder (which is true) and that J Street would be happy to receive Soros’s donations should he choose to give them (which seems to imply that he wasn’t donating already—which he was). Moreover, J Street had acknowledged that it would welcome Soros’s donations and saw no problem with him, but still implied that he wasn’t giving money.”

In fact, Soros and his family had given J Street $250,000 a year for three years beginning in 2008.

Similarly, its conflation of bundled funds with its own direct contributions seems to be an attempt to make J Street ap-

pear more influential than it might otherwise be. Ironcially, traditional pro-Israel PACs use bundled donations to make themselves appear less influential than they really are.

As the Washington Report’s late executive editor, Richard H. Curtiss, noted in Stealth PACs: Lobbying Congress for Control of U.S. Middle East Policy (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More): “with continuing talk about campaign finance reform [in the mid-1990s], including support

by Senate Republicans for abolishing PACs altogether, there was a conscious effort by AIPAC-affiliated PACs to lower their profiles.”

Morris Amitay, head of the pro-Israel Washington PAC, confirmed this when he told the Forward: “It’s not about the PACs. It all takes place at the private events.

That’s where they raise the real money.”

These unreported contributions make it virtually impossible to determine how much money pro-Israel PACs were responsible for contributing to candidates— whereas it seems that J Street has claimed credit for every possible dollar it could.

Even if JStreetPAC did “distribute” more campaign contributions than any other pro-Israel PAC in history—a dubious assertion, given that in 1992 alone National PAC gave $2,295,933 in reported campaign contributions (i.e., not counting bundling)— there’s yet another factor to consider. In most cases, it’s the only pro-Israel PAC giving to the candidates it endorses.

As Guttman reported, “It is somewhat unusual for NORPAC to endorse a candidate receiving funds from J Street [as it did with Shaheen].…Amitay, whose PAC is viewed as being right-of-center on issues relating to Israel, took a harsher stand on politicians backed by J Street PAC. ‘We will not contribute to a candidate who takes their endorsement,’ he stated.”

So let’s do the math. For the 2014 election, JStreetPAC made direct contributions totaling $219,344. According to <www.opensecrets.org>, as of Nov. 16, 2014 (final reports to the FEC are not due until Jan. 31, 2015), the other 29 pro-Israel PACs made a total of $2,531,145 in direct contributions. This amount does not include $987,086 in bundled donations reported by NORPAC and the Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs—nor does it include the unreported “real money” raised at private events, as cited by Amitay.

Even if JStreetPAC’s claim of “over $2.4 million to its 95 endorsed candidates” is taken at face value, that still makes it number two in real terms, if virtually all the other pro-Israel PACs contributed to candidates J Street did not endorse.

We’ll be better able to evaluate J Street’s effectiveness when the 114th Congress convenes in January. As a result of its success, J Street claims, “The 114th Congress will be the most pro-Israel, pro-peace in history.”

Pro-Israel, most likely. Pro-peace—we doubt it. q

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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Lame Duck Session May Push Most Mideast-Related Issues to 114th Congress CongressWatch

By Shirl McArthur ith the 113th Congress likely to adjourn its “lame duck” session by Dec. W 17, it’s not clear how many, if any, MiddleEast related issues will be dealt with. One item of business that had to be dealt with was to pass legislation to keep the government funded beyond Dec. 11, when the “continuing resolution,” passed in September that continues FY ’15 appropriations for federal agencies at the FY ’14 rate, was due to expire. Also, since the negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program have been extended for up to seven months, Congress has more time to try to pass new sanctions legislation or legislation setting impossible conditions. The ongoing military action against ISIS in Iraq and Syria might also be dealt with in some form.

Funding the Government Beyond Dec. 11 As reported in the previous issue, prior to its recess to work for re-election Congress passed H.J.Res. 124, providing continuing FY 2015 appropriations to federal agencies at the current annual rate. But that funding expires on Dec. 11, 2014, and new legislation had to be passed before then. Congressional leaders of both parties indicated that they preferred passing an “omnibus” appropriations bill funding the government through the end of FY ’15, and concentrate on FY ’16 appropriations in the 114th Congress.

The omnibus bill finally was introduced on Dec. 9, which did not leave enough time for both the House and Senate to consider and vote on it before the Dec. 11 deadline.

So congressional leaders planned for a short-term continuing resolution to give enough time for the omnibus to be passed.

As this issue of the Washington Report goes to press that has not yet happened, but there seems little doubt that it will.

The text of the bill is not yet available, but it reportedly funds 11 of the 12 appropriations bills through September 2015.

The remaining bill, funding the Department of Homeland Security, is extended only through February 2015, to give the Republican-controlled 114th Congress time Shirl McArthur is a retired U.S. foreign service officer based in the Washington, DC area.

32

would put even more pressure on Iran.

Surely, most of them know that more sanctions more likely will scuttle the negotiations entirely, which is Netanyahu’s preferred outcome.

The Senate’s previously described, farreaching and problematic Iran sanctions bill, S. 1881, introduced in December 2013

by Menendez, still has 60 co-sponsors, including Menendez, and could be brought to a vote at any time, and probably passed by the full Senate. Any measure passed by both the Senate and House would go to the White House for Obama’s signature. In that case, Obama would probably use what Iran Will Receive Congressional is called the “pocket veto,” neither signing Attention, But Perhaps Little Action nor vetoing the measure. If Congress sends The agreement to extend negotiations with the measure to the White House within 10 Iran already has been criticized by many of days (excluding Sundays) of adjournment, Israel’s congressional allies, and AIPAC pre- it would simply die at the conclusion of dictably issued a statement criticizing the the 113th Congress. Of course, it is likely extension and urging Congress to pass ad- that more new Iran sanctions bills will be ditional sanctions legislation. It is widely introduced in the 114th Congress.

There have been several reports that known that Israeli Prime Minister Binya min Netanyahu opposes any reasonable Obama may try to conclude an agreement agreement with Tehran, for fear that it without congressional approval. However, might weaken the device used by petty the White House denies this, and Obama tyrants and weak leaders for centuries— has said he intends to work with Congress that of an external threat—to keep a regarding any agreement (but has not said restive population at bay. So he has mar- that he will submit any agreement to Conshalled his congressional minions to, first, gress for approval).

On Nov. 20, 43 Republican senators, led work to scuttle the negotiations, or, alternatively, insist that any agreement include by Kirk and Marco Rubio (FL), signed a letter to Obama saying, in part, that they impossible conditions.

Regarding any future agreement, Sens. are alarmed by “reports that your adminRobert Menendez (D-NJ), who is openly istration plans to circumvent Congress and feuding with the White House over Iran unilaterally provide significant sanctions policy, and Mark Kirk (R-IL) on Nov. 12 is- relief under a comprehensive nuclear sued a “statement” that could have come agreement with Iran,” and that “the negadirectly from Netanyahu’s office, laying out tive consequences of a bad deal to the U.S. all of his impossible conditions. Among are immense, and will impact the security other things, the statement says that the au- and safety of Americans and send a mesthors “believe that a good deal will dis- sage of U.S. weakness to our allies and mantle, not just stall, Iran’s illicit nuclear partners in the Middle East and beyond, program and prevent Iran from ever be- including Israel.” coming a threshold nuclear weapons state,” and that “gradual sanctions relaxation Authorizing Use of Military Force would only occur if Iran strictly complied Against ISIS May be Put Off with all parts of the agreement.”

The military campaign against ISIS that Several of Israel’s members of Congress Obama launched in August, with broad, also raised the possibility of passing new though tacit, congressional support, relied Iran sanctions legislation during the lame for legal support on the Authorization for duck session. They argue that it was the Use of Military Force Resolution passed current sanctions regime that brought Iran after the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the U.S. to the negotiating table, so more sanctions Congressional leaders, as well as Obama,

to pass legislation to overturn President Barack Obama’s recent executive action regarding immigration.

The omnibus bill reportedly does include several “general” provisions. So it is likely that it includes provisions generally included in the Foreign Operations (foreign aid) bills regarding Iran and the usual problematic general provisions punishing the Palestinians for their refusal to knuckle under to Israeli domination. It also may not include Secretary of State John Kerry’s pledge of $156 million to UNRWA for Gaza reconstruction efforts.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

mcarthur_32-33_Congress Watch 12/11/14 9:23 PM Page 33

Congressional Halls of Fame Lose Six Members; Halls of Shame Lose Only Three Prior to the November 2014 general elections, six members of this magazine’s Halls of Fame (see September 2014 Washington Report, p. 28), three from the Senate and three from the House, announced their retirement. Retiring from the Senate were Democrats Tom Harkin (IA) after five terms, Carl Levin (MI) after six terms, and Jay Rockefeller (WV) after five terms.

(Harkin and Levin were number two and one, respectively, in career total pro-Israel PAC contributions.) Retiring from the House were Democrats John Dingell (MI) after 29 terms, George Miller (CA) after 20 terms, and Jim Moran (VA) after 12 terms. Their positive influence on U.S. policy in the Middle East will be missed.

All the members of the Senate Hall of Shame will be returning. Three House members, all Republicans, will not be returning. Michele Bachmann (MN) retired after four terms; Paul Broun (GA), after three terms, ran for the Senate and was defeated in the Republican primary election; and Tom Cotton (AR), after one term, was elected to the Senate.

One of the most significant results of the elections was the defeat in the general election of Arab-American Rep. Nick Ra-

realize that this is a shaky legal basis and that a new authorization for use of military force should be passed. Any new resolution will probably repeal the old one.

The questions are how broad or restrictive the new authorization should be, and when it should be taken up and passed. House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH), who retains that position in the new Congress, opposes taking up the issue in the lame duck session, because he believes that it should be dealt with by the new members, and that the issue is important enough that sufficient time should be allowed for committee hearings and full floor debate and votes.

Some hawkish members, notably Sens.

John McCain (R-AZ) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), will likely press for a broad authorization, perhaps even including authorizing ground forces in a combat role if necessary. But many—perhaps most—members, reflecting current public opinion, want a more limited resolution, specifically prohibiting the use of ground forces in a combat role.

There is also the administration’s request for the Overseas Contingency Operations fund to be increased by $5.6 billion to fund the expanded operations in Iraq and Syria. This is likely to be approved, perhaps included in an omnibus bill. In addition, as reported in the previous issue, the authorization for the secretary of defense “to provide assistance, including training, equipment, supplies, and sustainment, to appropriately vetted elements of the Syrian opposition,” which was passed on Sept.

18, expires on Dec. 11. This probably will be reauthorized.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

hall (D-WV) after 19 terms in the House. While not a member of the most recent Hall of Fame, Rahall has consistently been on that list. Throughout his career he strongly supported a balanced U.S. policy in the Middle East, justice for the Palestinians, and the integrity and independence of Lebanon.

Also significant is the departure from the House of two staunch champions of Israel’s national interests. Prior to the elections Henry Waxman (D-CA) announced his retirement after 20 terms. Also, Eric Cantor (R-VA), after seven terms, was defeated in a Republican primary by an even more conservative Republican. While they are not members of the current Hall of Shame, Waxman and Cantor have regularly been on that list.

The other four Arab-American House members, all Republicans, were re-elected. Returning to the 114th Congress will be Justin Amash (MI), Charles Boustany (LA), Richard Hanna (NY) and Darrell Issa (CA). Two Arab-American candidates for the Senate both lost their bids to the incumbents. In Texas David Alameel (D) was defeated by Sen. John Cornyn (R), and in Oregon Monica Wehby (R) lost to Sen. Jeff Merkley (D).

—S.M.

House Passes Senate’s U.S.-Israel Partnership Bill As previously reported in this space, the Senate on Sept. 18 passed S. 2673, introduced in July by Sen. Barbara Boxer (DCA), the Senate’s companion bill to the House-passed H.R. 938, the “U.S.-Israel Strategic Partnership” bill. The bill would give Israel a broad range of military and economic benefits, but without the controversial provision giving Israelis exceptional visa preference. Then, on Dec. 3, leading Israel-Firster Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) without warning brought the Senate bill to the House floor, where it was passed under “suspension of the rules,” clearing it for Obama’s signature. If he does not sign it, it will die with the adjournment of the 113th Congress. ❑

Jerusalem Journal…

Continued from page 12

until the end of the Hour.” “Where are these people?” the Companions asked. The Prophet said, “In and around Byt Al Maqdes [Jerusalem].”

To attribute all the tension in Jerusalem to religious difference is misleading at best.

When people were paralyzed staring at their TV screens watching the killing in Gaza, enraged at the impotence of their leaders and the empty words of the outside world, some were radicalized and decided to take the law into their own hands. What is notable about the latest attacks on Israelis is that there is no organization, no planning, and no political party behind THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

them. The only thread linking the various attacks is outrage at Israeli policies.

He Who Lit the Fire Should Extinguish It. Israeli officials complimented the Palestinian security forces for their role in not allowing the flames of Gaza and then Jerusalem to spread to the West Bank. But in their efforts to calm their Jewish citizens, Israeli officials are adding more fuel to the fire: an “anti-terror law” which includes the revoking of citizenship or residency of family members of those who attack Jewish Israelis, in addition to destroying their families’ homes, has been proposed in the Knesset. The proposed bill gives Israel the right to define “terrorism,” and also recommends that carrying the Palestinian flag be considered a terrorist act punishable by law! (We should remember that Israeli soldiers used to shoot and kill young Palestinians for carrying or displaying their flag.) As evidenced by the proposed law declaring Israel “the nation-state of the Jewish people,” Israel has no intention of resuming negotiations toward a two-state solution—not in good faith, at least. Instead it intends to expand its one state for Jews only and pre-emptively legalize discrimination and inequalities based on religion.

The flames in the body of Mohammed Abu Khdeir; the fire in the hearts of those most oppressed by Israel’s occupation; and the fuel relentlessly added by that occupation all could go out of control. If that happens, even more Israeli as well as more Palestinian lives will be consumed like kindling feeding this nihilistic fire. ❑ 33

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Moroccan Women: Still at the Barricades SpecialReport

By Marvine Howe

COURTESY FEMMES DU MAROC

ment, denounced the model of European working women, “who don’t even find time to get married, to be mothers or to educate their children.” But what stirred feminine wrath was the Islamist leader’s condescending flattery: “The lights in Moroccan homes went out when women left the hearth to work outside.”

“Scandal! Degrading! Humiliating!” women protested on Facebook and Twitter, in the Moroccan media, and in front of parliament. No way would the Islamist-led government take away their rights. Ten human rights and women’s associations announced plans to take the prime minister to court for failing to apologize for his speech, considered “prejudicial against women.”

It is difficult for the outsider The cover of the July-August 2014 issue of Femmes du to understand the level of anger Maroc (“Moroccan Women”). of Moroccan women over what appeared to be simply an ill-conefiant they stand, six sleekly dressed ceived gesture by the moderate Islamist women in black pantsuits and short leader to ingratiate himself with his conskirts, with lamps in the place of heads. servative base. After all, compared to the The cover of a glossy Moroccan women’s rest of North Africa and the Middle East magazine is intriguing for anyone unaware these days, Morocco appears to be an oasis of the ongoing conflict between Morocco’s of calm and progress. And women, who Islamist prime minister and a sector of his had lived under one of the most retrogresfemale constituents. Summing up the sive Family Codes, have now gained a prostruggle, the legend reads in French: gressive legal status which is the envy of much of the Muslim world.

“Women Lamps? No thanks!”

Morocco largely escaped the revolutionThe lamp controversy symbolizes the peaceful but intense movement taking ary fever of the Arab Spring which has inplace in this ancient tradition-bound king- flamed the region since 2011. Like Tunisia, dom. Moroccan women, tired of being pa- Moroccan youths, human rights activists, tronized by a dominant masculine society, and left-wing and Islamic militants alike are lashing back. Their immediate target is took to social media and the streets to the congenial Islamist Prime Minister Ab- protest the lack of jobs, poor social services, delillah Benkirane, suspected by many and income disparities. The Moroccan profeminists of harboring a not-so-secret testers denounced the ineffectual political agenda to roll back women’s hard-earned parties, both left and right—but not the inadvances. The crisis came to a head last violable Palace. Moving swiftly, King MoJune, when Benkirane, speaking in parlia- hammed VI skillfully engineered a balanced solution to quell the unrest. There Marvine Howe, former New York Times bu- was a referendum on a new “democratic” reau chief in Ankara, is the author of Mo- constitution, with something for everyone: rocco: The Islamist Awakening and Other more powers for the government and legisChallenges (available from AET’s Middle lature, the promise of gender parity and an East Books and More). independent judiciary. Yet the king, who is

D

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

both chief of state and commander of the faithful, retained his broad powers.

Furthermore, election results were no longer skewered. When the moderate Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD) won parliamentary elections in November 2011, the king duly called on its leader to form a coalition government. The Palace has learned a hard lesson from neighboring Algeria, whose military had barred a popularly elected Islamist party from power, ushering in a decade of violence from which the country has not completely recovered. Morocco, on the other hand, has avoided the political turbulence shaking the Arab world with its marriage of convenience between King Mohammed VI and the moderate Islamist-led government. The kingdom has also gained a convenient scapegoat when things go wrong.

A Price to Pay for Stability This socio-political stability has come at a price for the emerging women’s movement, however. On the surface, it seems that the momentum for emancipation has stalled and risks sliding backward. The ruling PJD has not wrought dramatic changes in people’s lives, but has provided glimpses into its long-term agenda to Islamize society.

The Islamist authorities vehemently disapproved of music festivals, for example, which are more popular than ever. Moves to introduce more prayers on government television were rebuffed by the Palace. Despite an official campaign against alcohol, the local wine industry is flourishing.

There is, however, a visible increase in headscarves in city streets. More teenage girls have donned a colorful, tight-fitting headscarf, or hijab, with a long skirt, jeans or skinny pants. The explanation: the hijab reinforces the image of a “serious woman,” and serves as an important tool to win a husband. Also, many Westernized women acknowledge putting on headscarves when they venture into some urban neighborhoods, as protection from male harassment.

On the 10th anniversary of the progressive new Personal Status Code, or Moudawana, many women, whether professionals or stay-at-home mothers, Westernized or Islamist, are resentful of the slow progress of reform. Most women blame the Benkirane government and the dominant male hierarchy for the failure to implement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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PHOTO M. HOWE

shows. The festering problem turned reforms. They are grateful to the king into a diplomatic crisis last July, when for his support, but stress that the only an Egyptian journalist gratuitously inway for real change to occur is through sulted Morocco as a country of prostithe transformation of Moroccan socitution and AIDS. The Arab media also ety’s traditional mindset. depicts the kingdom as a land of witchDespite the enlightened spirit of the craft. Several analysts suggested the revised Personal Status Code and the problem might be political. Moroccans new constitution, the largely conservaare criticized by other Arabs for their tive parliament has been slow to enact more open Western lifestyle as well as regulatory legislation, and texts are untheir tolerance of Islamists. dermined by glaring deficiencies. For Emphasizing that Arab attacks on Moexample, it took the suicide of a roccan women are “a national affair,” the teenager and nearly two years to amend Women Journalists’ Network recently orthe Criminal Code enabling a rapist to ganized a seminar at a Casablanca hotel, escape up to 20 years in prison by marinviting two cabinet ministers to the rying his victim. Nor has there been event. Some hundred women from the progress on polygamy and discriminamedia, cinema and TV met to map out a tory inheritance laws, both derived from Islamic shariah. In fact, at the end of Bassima Hakkaoui, Morocco’s minister of solidar- response to the increasingly hostile pic2013, when the leader of the Socialist ity, women, family and social development, and un- ture of Moroccan women in the Arab world. There were no calls for retaliation Party called for an end to these practices proclaimed leader of the Islamist feminists. but, rather, suggestions that the fight in the name of gender equality, he was sharply denounced in Islamist circles as “an seats, or 17 percent, behind Senegal with should begin at home, against pejorative fem42.5 percent women, and Mauritania and inine stereotypes in Moroccan media and TV apostate.”

Nouzha Guessous was the only woman Algeria, both with 30 percent! “While the films. Guest of honor Minister Hakkaoui on the Royal Commission revising the king is a progressive on women’s issues, he made an impassioned speech calling for a Moudawana. “It was a good compromise— governs by consensus and has to work with mass movement against the stereotypes debut there have been implementation prob- the government and political parties,” she grading Moroccan women at home and abroad. Announcing the creation of a Nalems,” she said recently. “The philosophy of acknowledged.

The unproclaimed leader of Islamist fem- tional Observatory to improve the image of the legislation, based on the family and its components, has changed. Before, the law inists is Bassima Hakkaoui, minister of soli- women, she emphasized that women were dictated a family hierarchy; it doesn’t do darity, women, family and social develop- still victims of gender discrimination. “In that now. There are contradictions, how- ment, and a former PJD deputy. Receiving Morocco, like elsewhere, there’s more interever. The code proclaims equality but left a visitor at the ministry in Rabat, Hakkaoui est in a woman’s body than in her skills and laws that maintain the hierarchy. Responsi- appeared wearing a floral hijab and formless intellectual capacity,” the Islamist minister bility is still the domain of the guardian or djellaba, while noting that her secretary and said. “The Moroccan woman deserves a betfather. There is also the article that gives cabinet director do not wear hijab. Asked ter place in Moroccan society, on a par with discretionary powers to judges regarding about the new Moudawana, the minister a man.” ❑ the minimum marriage age, set at 18. And called it “revolutionary,” particularly for enabling women to initiate divorce proceed- School Board Decision… some judges are resistant to change.”

“I thought things would change more ings and ending the male custom of repudirapidly,” Nouzha Skalli, a leading feminist ation. “Before, a woman would have to pay Continued from page 25 on the political scene for more than two off her husband to get rid of him,” she comdecades, admits ruefully, blaming conserva- mented wryly. There is a problem with the stead of inclusion for its growing Muslim tive and left-wing parties alike for the slug- minimum marriage age of 18, she conceded, population, the school board decision gish pace of reform. One of seven women explaining that many rural parents fear prompted a backlash via e-mail, tweets ministers in the government from 2007-11, their teenage daughters will elope. Now and Facebook messages, like: “The MusSkalli led the campaign to win gender par- parliament is debating the redefinition of lims killed Christmas!” “Go back to where ity, end discrimination and include more the minimum age to perhaps 16. According you came from.” women in decision-making positions. She to Hakkaoui, the real problem is that men Maybe the school board was worried also raised sensitive subjects like decrimi- regard women as “inferiors” in social, eco- about a “holiday free-for all,” Dvorak renalizing abortion, abolishing the death nomic and political matters. “We must flected, “but let’s face it, this got all kinds penalty, and ending child labor—issues ig- change their mentalities,” she stressed. of freaky because it was Muslims asking.

While Morocco’s largely secular women’s The school board should be ashamed of itnored by the Islamists. Now in parliament, Skalli has relentlessly attacked Benkirane’s movement has been at loggerheads with Is- self. It sidestepped a controversy by exgovernment for dragging its feet on the con- lamists for decades over reforms, there’s a posing a religious minority to hatred.” stitutional reforms and denounced any at- new impetus to reach out to the Islamist Muslim parents and their supporters are tempts to infringe on women’s gains. In a re- leadership to tackle national issues of com- expanding their campaign to win equal cent interview, she expressed disappoint- mon concern. Recently, a group of women recognition for Muslim holidays into ment that women have made little progress took up an ambitious new challenge: to neighboring school districts in Frederick in politics. Skalli pointed to the low number correct the negative image of Moroccan and Howard counties. For more informaof women in parliament: just 67 out of 395 women in Middle Eastern media and TV tion visit <www.Equality4eid.com>. ❑ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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lippman_36-37_Special Report 12/11/14 9:19 PM Page 36

Setbacks and Coalition-Building After October Elections in Bosnia-Herzegovina SpecialReport

Željko Komšić, a member of Bosnia’s tripartite presidency and leader of the new Democratic Front coalition, waits for his ballot at a Sarajevo polling station, Oct. 12, 2014. he first general elections in Bosnia-

THerzegovina in four years took place

on Oct. 12, 2014. As of late November parliamentary coalitions were just shaping up, but the balance of power among the principal parties was promising to shift in some significant ways.

The two parties that had emerged the strongest in the 2010 elections—and which, as a result, wielded the most power in the country—received damaging setbacks this fall. The separatist SNSD (Alliance of Independent Social Democrats), the party of Republika Srpska President and strongman Milorad Dodik, retained a plurality in the Serb-controlled entity (one of two that form the post-war constitutional order in Bosnia), but its power to wield absolute control over the entity has been eroded.

And the SDP (Social Democratic Party), led by the autocratic Zlatko Lagumdžija, suffered a complete rout. It was this party that, having won a clear victory in 2010, took more than a year to form a coalition Peter Lippman is an independent human rights activist based in Seattle.

36

that would govern the Federation (Bosnia’s other entity)—and then whimsically destroyed that coalition a year and a half later, never to form another one up until the recent elections. The result was a period of government chaos that every socially conscious person abhorred.

Part of the reason the two parties suffered such setbacks was, most likely, that neither of them had held to any genuine social-democratic ideals. Both parties were out for power and profit, and along the way they made deals with each other that threatened to chip away at the few safeguards of democracy that existed in Bosnia. Among other moves, the two parties drafted a disgraceful scheme that would have compromised the national government’s ability to review conflicts of interest; promoted an anti-democratic bill for closed voting lists; and opportunistically hatched a deal that distributed money to the entity governments from one of the few remaining profitable state-owned companies, rather than using the funds for needed reinvestment.

Fortunately, the opposition prevented these measures from being enacted, but

EELVIS BARUKCIC/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

By Peter Lippman

their intent was not lost on the public. The defeat of the SDP and demotion of the SNSD were already foreshadowed in the municipal elections of 2012. A significant number of voters have come to see through the nationalist and separatist exhortations of Dodik and the insincere proclamations of progress from Lagumdžija. Just as important, they are tired of the nearly 40 percent unemployment and the stall in Bosnia’s progress toward membership in the European Union.

The rout of the two ostensibly social-democratic parties was thus the result of mass disaffection. And to some extent the “March First” citizens initiative, described earlier in these pages, also played a role in bringing in anti-SNSD votes in the Republika Srpska. It worked to register “proBosnian” voters (both returnees and those abroad) in the RS in order to help defeat Dodik’s party, with a goal to raise the number of such voters to 100,000. This would have significantly increased the influence of non-Serb returnees in the entity.

Ultimately, about 30,000 new voters were registered, but many of them failed to vote. This is, in some measure, simply a reflection of the fact that 20-odd years abroad takes its toll on the civic identity of an expatriate. Nor did it help that Bosnia’s Central Election Commission created chaos by mailing absentee ballots to the wrong addresses. Nevertheless, in the end there were 5,000 more votes from abroad than in the previous election, making 2014 the first time since the end of the war that such votes increased rather than decreased.

As a result of March First’s efforts, a small pro-Bosnia coalition called “Domovina” (Homeland) was fashioned that took five seats in the Republika Srpska parliament, creating the possibility for a modicum of influence at that level.

A popular T-shirt in Bosnia-Herzegovina reads, “Dear Tito, please come back. You stole, but you gave something to us. These [current leaders] steal, but they don’t give us anything.” This is, in essence, the message of the recent elections: voters know the leaders are bound to be corrupt, but they wish that elected officials would not make such a dysfunctional mockery out of Bosnia.

It seems that the newly elected officials JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

lippman_36-37_Special Report 12/11/14 9:19 PM Page 37

have heard the message; there has been much talk of working together to â&#x20AC;&#x153;get Bosnia goingâ&#x20AC;? out of economic stagnation and toward membership in the European Union. For starters, formation of the new government at several levels has been moving much more quickly than previously.

Even some of the jaded political commentators are a bit hopeful. This is a tenuous hope, however, in a country that has been at a standstill ever since Dodik came to power in the Republika Srpska, and since he and his counterparts have blocked economic progress.

After the votes were in, the winning parties jockeyed for position in the coalition-forming period, and by late November the new ruling coalitions began to take shape. The strongest parties to emerge were the Croat nationalist party (HDZâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; leading Croats since the war); the Bosniak nationalist party (SDAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;also leading Bosniaks since the war); and Dodikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Serb nationalist SNSD, with its plurality in the Serb-controlled entity. Countering the SNSD in the Republika Srpska was the Alliance for Change, a coalition centered around the opposition SDS party, originally formed by Radovan KaradĹžiÄ&#x2021; in the early 1990s, before the war.

The first coalition to form was at the state level, with the HDZ, the SDA and the Alliance for Change combining to form the leading parliamentary coalition. It is to be hoped that, with this coalition, the state government finally would be able to avoid disruption and blockade by Dodikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party.

Crucial in forming this new coalition was the addition of the Democratic Front, a new party under the leadership of outgoing member of the state presidency Ĺ˝eljko KomĹĄiÄ&#x2021;. It has run on a credibly anti-corruption program, and KomĹĄiÄ&#x2021; himself has indeed been one of the few politicians in recent years to retain some of the trust and popularity afforded him by the voters. The Democratic Front clearly took thousands of votes away from the failing SDP, of which KomĹĄiÄ&#x2021; was formerly a member.

A coalition likewise formed in the Federation around the same time, with the SDA and Democratic Front joining forces and bringing in Croat leader Dragan Ä&#x152;oviÄ&#x2021;'s HDZ. Meanwhile, it was Ä&#x152;oviÄ&#x2021;, the SDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakir IzetbegoviÄ&#x2021;, and Mladen IvaniÄ&#x2021; of the Alliance for Change who were elected to form the three-member presidency at the state level.

There is more than one irony evident in the new line-up of forces. First, while there is at least a possibility of real change in governmental function accompanying JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

Dodikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loss of primacy, there is nothing new about the parties that are re-emerging in power. It was precisely the SDA, the HDZ and the SDS that formed a coalition after the first multi-party elections in 1990, and then set to the task of drowning Bosnia in the blood of a four-year war. It appears that, other than the Democratic Front, it is only the nationalist parties that hold the votersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; trust.

Secondly, two of the three new members of the state-level presidency have undergone indictment for corruption at one time or another, and the third member, the incumbent IzetbegoviÄ&#x2021;, has seen more than his share of accusations of shady practice.

Third, for eight years KomĹĄiÄ&#x2021; was the source of no end of anger for HDZ and Ä&#x152;oviÄ&#x2021;, because KomĹĄiÄ&#x2021; served two consecutive terms as the Croat member of the state presidencyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but was elected primarily due to votes from secular Muslims.

Now, the Democratic Front and the HDZ are becoming intimate political partners.

The final irony is that the parties representing the victims of Serbian aggression against the integrity of Bosnia-Herzegovina during the war are now, likewise, eager partners with the SDSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the party formerly of KaradĹžiÄ&#x2021;, which orchestrated the genocide and all but destroyed the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social and economic fabric. But times are different now, as are the above-mentioned partiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;at least to some extentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and there is some hope that a real turnaround can happen in the political culture of Bosnia. Still, progressives from the March First campaign and Domovina, along with others sympathetic to Bosnia, are straining to see these developments as something other than a re-enactment of George Orwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Animal Farm.

One last note: November saw an ongoing tussle to form up the ruling coalition in the parliament of the Republika Srpska, with the SNSD and the Alliance for Change each

swearing that they had cornered the necessary 42-vote (out of 83) majority. In the midst of this dogfight a recording was leaked with the recognizable voice of RS Prime Minister Ĺ˝eljka CvijanoviÄ&#x2021; exulting about how the SNSD had â&#x20AC;&#x153;boughtâ&#x20AC;? two votes. While the SNSD called the recording a â&#x20AC;&#x153;montage,â&#x20AC;? citizens of the RS and the rest of the country were shockedâ&#x20AC;Śin the manner of Captain Renault in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Casablanca.â&#x20AC;? The scandal blew over quickly, and by late November Dodikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party had sewn up a coalition in the RSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; though without the strong majority that he had previously controlled.

If nothing else comes across clearly, the above-described formation of ironic coalitions shows that ordinary politics is alive and well in Bosnia-Herzegovina. But there is at least some hope today that a more functional government than has existed in the last eight years is on its way. â?&#x2018;

The Nakba Continuesâ&#x20AC;Ś Continued from page 17

sity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once these crises occurred once every decade or more. But they are now a pattern. We saw violent confrontations over the summer during the attack on Gaza and only weeks later itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening again.â&#x20AC;?

There is deep distrust of the police and politicians, but Farah believed the anger was unlikely for the time being to translate into an intifada. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The leadership here is opposed,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despite the hostile atmosphere in the Israeli parliament, courts, media and public, there is still a preference to seek redress through political and legal channels.â&#x20AC;?

Awawdy, the journalist from Kafr Kana, was more pessimistic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This government sees us at worst as enemies and at best as guests whose rights can be taken away at any moment. If things keep on this way, an explosion is coming. You can sense it in the air.â&#x20AC;? â?&#x2018;

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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gee_38_Islam and the Near East in the Far East 12/11/14 5:05 PM Page 38

Two Visions of the Future Battle It Out in Indonesia

By John Gee

Islam and the Near East in theFar East

like to stand on ceremony.

After the inauguration, she came under fire for kicking Indonesia’s parties has off her high-heeled shoes shown no sign of letting up and having a smoke on the following the inauguration lawn of the presidential of Joko Widodo, commonly palace, but shrugged off the called “Jokowi,” as president criticism. on Oct. 20, 2014. While the The new cabinet is made ceremony itself was the ocup of technocrats and politicasion for displays of gracians, all vetted in advance ciousness and national soliby Indonesia’s Corruption darity, it did not lead to any Eradication Commission. change in the attitudes of Some of the president’s the rivals. Defeated presichoices were nevertheless dential candidate Prabowo criticized as being primarily Subianto and his Red-White political, including Puan coalition sustained a shrill Maharani, daughter of excampaign against the Jokowi President Megawati administration, while the Sukarnoputri. Altogether, new president himself six ministers belong to sought to press on with a reJoko’s party, the Indonesian form program that is bound Democratic Party-Struggle to face determined opposi(PDIP), three each from the tion in Indonesia’s parliaNational Democratic Party ment, where his supporters and the National Awakenare in a minority, at least for ing Party, and one each now. from two other parties, HaJoko named his cabinet on nura and the United DevelOct. 26. It was immediately opment Party (PPP), only renoted in the international as cently wooed away from the well as local media that 8 of Red-White coalition. Small its 34 members were wonder that Joko did not women—the highest numslim down the size of the ber in Indonesia’s history, cabinet, as some supporters and one that compares favorwould have wished. ably with the U.S. (with 3 of A few days after the inau16 members being women) and Britain (5 of 22). They Indonesian Minister for Marine and Fisheries Susi Pudjiastuti lifts Minis- guration, Minister for Reliare not token members, ei- ter of State-Owned Enterprises Rini Soemarno at the Oct. 26, 2014 intro- gious Affairs Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, a PPP ther; five are in key min- duction of his cabinet by newly inaugurated President Joko Widodo. member, announced that, istries, including Retno Marsudi at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and put under the microscope by those hostile over the coming six months, he’d be workSiti Nurbaya at the Ministry for Environ- to the new administration. Susi Pudjiastuti ing on a bill to give better protection to rement and Forestry. The latter is a bit of a drew particular attention. She dropped out ligious minorities. The main religions behot seat, given international concern about of school, but then started a successful side the majority faith, Islam, are Catholithe gradual destruction of Indonesia’s rain business buying fish from fishermen in cism, Protestantism, Hinduism, Buddhism forests and the impact of burning of forests southern Java and selling them to whole- and Confucianism, but Lukman also wants on the environment of neighboring coun- salers. This provided her with the capital to extend protection to the Ahmadis, to start her own airline. At first, her planes whose places of worship have come under tries through the creation of haze.

The women cabinet members have been were used to deliver fish speedily, but she repeated attack in recent years by people then built up a fleet of small craft that flew bitterly opposed to what they see as their John Gee is a free-lance journalist based in passengers to distant areas with small air- heretical views, and to Shi’i Muslims. It is Singapore, and the author of Unequal Con- ports that the major airlines did not serve. a brave stand to take in the face of camShe has tattoos on her legs and does not flict: The Palestinians and Israel.

Continued on page 45 he struggle between the

ADEK BERRY/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

Ttwo main camps among

38

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

opm_39-40_Other People's Mail 12/11/14 5:07 PM Page 39

Other People’s Mail Compiled by Dale Sprusansky Discrimination Is Real in Israel To The New York Times, Oct. 26, 2014 Re “Minority Life in Israel”: I read Rula Jebreal’s opinion article with a sense of recognition. As an American Jew who lived in Israel for 14 years in the late 1970s and 1980s, I recall only too intensely the racism and segregation.

I founded and ran a martial arts gym, to which I welcomed Palestinian students.

Those Israelis who didn’t object on an outright racist basis just thought I was a naïve American. When I would go and visit my students in their villages, Israeli acquaintances were appalled. I met few Jewish Israelis, other than my friends in the anti-occupation movement, who had ever been to a Palestinian home or invited an Arab to break bread.

Rula Jebreal’s descriptions were measured, even mild, considering the hatred of Palestinians that has infected every corner of Israeli society today. The imposition of separation—on roads, in schools and neighborhoods, now buses—really is apartheid.

Sue Katz, Arlington, MA

Home Demolitions and the U.S. To the Los Angeles Times, Nov. 25, 2014 The U.S. government’s recent comments on Israel’s resumption of demolishing the homes of Palestinians who carried out the attack on a Jerusalem synagogue are yet another typical verbal wrist slap for Israel.

Similar responses from elsewhere in the world are, unfortunately, just as meaningless.

I keep wondering if our government, or anyone else for that matter, would one day suggest that Israel should also demolish the homes of Israelis who perpetrate crimes against Palestinians.

Jack Samara, Northridge, CA

The U.S.-Israel “Deal” To the San Francisco Chronicle, Nov. 3, 2014 Regarding “Why is Israel only allowed to build?” (Letters, Oct. 30), the deal is Israel is America’s best friend, regardless of spying on America and threatening members of Congress with implacable, wellfunded opposition unless Congress votes exactly the way the Israel lobby wants them to vote.

The deal is Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, regardless of driving JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

Palestinians from their homeland, turning Palestinian families into the streets and bulldozing their homes, and most recently shelling U.N. schools sheltering Palestinian children.

The deal is, for unknown reasons, it is deemed racist to criticize Israel, even while they do their best to sabotage the talks with Iran aimed at preventing Iran from manufacturing nuclear weapons. Instead of talks, Israel wants the U.S. to launch an attack on Iran and plunge the world into another war.

Kumar Ravindran, San Leandro, CA

“Chickenshit” Name Not Issue To The Boston Globe, Nov. 4, 2014 In light of all that is happening in the Middle East, especially the Gaza Strip and West Bank, it is surprising that Alan M. Dershowitz would write of such a minor matter (“Name-calling bruises U.S.-Israel relations,” Op-ed, Nov. 1).

The article criticized a U.S. official for using a nasty name to describe Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. It is far more important to focus on the Israeli attack on the Gaza Strip this year, in which 2,100 Palestinians were killed, many of them innocent children. The Israeli military destroyed buildings, electrical grids, and other civilian infrastructure.

The United States works hard to help Israel defy international laws, not only with funds, but with U.S.-made armaments. The United States should drastically lower the $3 billion in aid it gives Israel every year.

It’s time for Americans to get angry. Our taxes should not be paying for Israeli brutality.

Paul and Carol Rae Bradford, Somerville, MA

Europe Frustrated With Israel To the San Jose Mercury News, Dec. 3, 2014 A seismic shift is occurring in European capitals increasingly frustrated by Israel’s intransigence toward Palestinian sovereignty as it builds more and more settlements on Palestinian land and demolishes homes. The European Union has urged Israel to immediately halt its expansionist policies, end its illegal occupation and lift the siege of Gaza. Current Israeli policy, driven by right-wing ideologues, is fueling much of the intensifying Palestinian rage and the cycle of unending violence.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

There is a growing realization that the soft talk of the U.S. administration has been an abject failure and must be replaced with European economic sanctions.

The antipathy toward Israel has heightened after its attack on Gaza last summer, which resulted in a large number of deaths of innocent civilians and enormous damage to its basic infrastructure. European leaders fully comprehend that unless the siege of Gaza is lifted, the people of Gaza will live in a perpetual state of suicidal despair. Unlike the U.S., where images of the attack on Gaza were largely hidden, the Europeans witnessed raw images that reshaped their perception of the conflict.

If Israel continues on its present course, it could seriously jeopardize its lucrative trade with Europe worth about 30 billion euros a year and its tariff-free access to the 28 member states.

Jagjit Singh, Los Altos, CA

Protecting All Arab Christians To The Columbus Dispatch, Oct. 29, 2014 There is little I can add to Georgie Anne Geyer’s excellent Thursday op-ed column, “Where’s outrage over persecution of Iraqi Christians?”

She wrote a comprehensive commentary that covers all Christians of the Middle East.

I have struggled for some time to understand why many Christians in the United States do not support Christians in Palestine and other countries of the Middle East. I have come to believe it is prejudice.

When Israel shelled Gaza, the shells did not discriminate. Among the 2,100 people killed were Christians. In the West Bank, Gaza and Israel, Christians suffer daily discrimination, chiefly because they are Arabs.

Could it be that many Americans are slow to help Iraqi Christians as well as other Christians in the Middle East because they are Arabs, and supporting them would somehow show disloyalty to Israel?

This is a dilemma.

It seems that we must choose between offending our loyalty to Israel or Middle East Christians, not both. Many people do not stop and ask themselves, who are the Christians who live in the Holy Land today? The answer is they are descendants of the first Christians, and they are Arabs.

We need to get our priorities straight and support Middle East Christians and make it 39

opm_39-40_Other People's Mail 12/11/14 5:07 PM Page 40

plain that we do not sign up for a war against people just because they are Arabs and may be at odds with the questionable national and political goals of Israel.

Barbara Doll, Westerville, OH

What Is ISIS War Accomplishing?

To The Star-Ledger, Nov. 1, 2014 It appears that ISIS’ power has not diminished significantly despite air strikes in Iraq and Syria. Some may argue that it has even increased.

It is a serious mistake to believe that we can defeat ISIS by military force. Foreign military presence, civilian deaths and destruction of civilian infrastructure seem to attract more recruits to ISIS. It is time we learn from past mistakes: war is not the answer.

Instead, the United States and the international community should try robust diplomacy in coordination with regional countries, including Iran, to: stop the flow of weapons to ISIS and the black market of crude oil that funds its operations; increase humanitarian aid for refugees; stop providing weapons, military expertise and armed forces to the region; invest resources in political solutions needed to address the grievances of the Sunni population that drive them to ISIS; and work with the United Nations toward a settlement of Syria’s civil war.

Congress should not abdicate its constitutional duties to declare war. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Reps.

Scott Garrett and Rodney Frelinghuysen should press for debate and a vote on whether we should use military force in Iraq and Syria.

Litsa Binder, Sparta, NJ

Careful ISIS/Syria Policy Needed To The Wall Street Journal, Oct. 10, 2014 Sens. John McCain and Lindsey Graham are dead wrong in their assessment of Syria, and their exceedingly hawkish policy prescription of removing Bashar alAssad is more dangerous than doing nothing at all (“To Defeat Islamic State, Remove Assad,” op-ed, Oct. 7).

Sens. McCain and Graham claim that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s brutal dictatorship is the proximate cause for the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS). But they fail to recognize that ISIS is the descendant organization of al-Qaeda in Iraq, which came into being only after the U.S. toppled the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003 and created a chaotic power vacuum for terrorists to exploit.

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The senators are right to assert that airstrikes alone will bring little change in Syria, but their suggestion of removing Mr. Assad would only exacerbate the chaos that allows ISIS to thrive. None of the opposition factions would be capable of asserting control over Syria. There are hundreds of groups, each with a different ideology, ethnicity or goal for Syria’s governance. Just like in Libya, they would continue to fight each other in the post-regime order, and ISIS would finally be able to expand into Syria’s more populated western provinces.

We could hit Mr. Assad where it hurts until he is forced to the negotiating table, kicking and screaming. Then we could coordinate with regional partners to stem support to the opposition, which would force them into negotiating, too. Only then can we truly halt ISIS’ advance and begin to roll it back.

The U.S. absolutely must not destroy the existing security apparatus in Syria. Instead, we should repurpose it, as well as the manpower of other armed factions, for the fight against ISIS, if we have any hope for lasting stability.

Chase Carter, Washington, DC

Support Diplomacy With Iran To the Hartford Courant, Dec. 1, 2014 One hundred and ninety members of Congress have made statements in support of ongoing diplomacy with Iran. In addiWRITE, TELEPHONE OR E-MAIL LEADERS President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, DC 20500 Comment Line: (202) 456-1111 Visit: <www.whitehouse.gov/contact/submitquestions-and-comments> Vice President Joe Biden (same as above) Secretary of State John Kerry U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, DC 20520 (202) 647-6575 #8 or (202) 647-5291 #1 Visit <www.state.gov> to e-mail comments Any Senator U.S. Senate Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-3121 Any Representative U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-3121 E-mail Congress: visit <www.congress.org>

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

tion, retired military leaders from the U.S. and Israel are saying that diplomacy is the best way to guard against a nuclear-armed Iran.

We need to continue progressing with our talks with Iran. The alternative is very dangerous.

I urge our members of Congress to speak out for diplomacy with Iran.

The Friends Committee on National Legislation has more information on ways we can support diplomacy and prevent war at <fcnl.org/iran>.

Joe Wasserman, West Hartford, CT

The Old Egypt Returns To The New York Times, Dec. 2, 2014 Re “After 3 years in detention, Mubarak may be freed” (News, Dec. 1): Former President Hosni Mubarak’s acquittal not only marks the final nail in the coffin of what was once a relatively independent Egyptian judiciary, but it represents the solidification of the state’s extraordinary comeback in post-revolutionary Egypt. Who could forget the hopes and aspirations of millions of protesting Egyptians back in 2011? Who could forget how the energy unleashed at Tahrir Square not only shattered the barrier of fear when Mr. Mubarak refused to step down, but also swept up his successor, Field Marshal Mohammed Hussein Tantawi, when he, too, stood in the protesters’ way on that long and bloody path to democracy? While the self-defeating policies of President Mohamed Morsi did not exactly build democratic bridges, there was a glimmer of hope that the first contours of a post-Mubarak democratic Egypt were taking shape. Welcome to the new Egypt, a place where journalism and political dissent are state crimes and ex-dictators enjoy state-sponsored impunity. Or should we say: Welcome back to the old Egypt?

Sander van Niekerk, The Hague

Guantanamo Concern To the San Francisco Chronicle, Nov. 12, 2014 I read “Gruff former general fit the bill to bring U.S. detainees home” (Nov. 10) with mixed emotions. I’m happy the American prisoners were freed [from North Korea], but I couldn’t help but think of the detainees imprisoned without charge for over a decade at Guantanamo Bay. The United States should treat prisoners from other countries as we’d like other countries to treat detained Americans.

Patrick Rooney, Santa Cruz, CA ❑ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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CWS/CARTOONARTS INTERNATIONAL www.cartoonweb.com

Israel Channel 1, Jerusalem

The New York Times Syndicate, New York

CWS/CARTOONARTS INTERNATIONAL www.cartoonweb.com

CWS/CARTOONARTS INTERNATIONAL www.cartoonweb.com

Daily Star, Beirut

Daily Star, Beirut

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

The Dominion Post, Wellington

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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Dr. Mads Gilbert, Eyewitness to Summer Israeli Assault, Banned From Returning to Gaza

STAFF PHOTO J. ADAS

By Jane Adas

Dr. Mads Gilbert. r. Mads Gilbert warned his Rutgers

DUniversity audience on Oct. 30 that the presentation of slides, video and recorded sound clips he had taken while working at Shifa Hospital in Gaza City during Israel’s “Protective Edge” assault would be a rough ride: Ahmad, wounded in the face, who at 8 years old has survived four deadly attacks; a woman with half her face blown off by shrapnel; audio of bombs detonating every few seconds, the constant whining of drones, and babies wailing. “This is what parents see and hear, and why they ask, ‘where is the world that lets this happen?’” Dr. Gilbert showed the slides out of respect and with permission because, he explained, “people in the global North, and especially the United States, are shielded from this reality.” He gave tribute to the Rutgers chapter of the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, which sponsored his presentation.

Dr. Gilbert had been in Gaza for three weeks in June to write a “brief report for UNRWA: The Gaza Health Sector as of June 2014.” As a result of Israel’s sevenyear siege on Gaza and Egypt’s closing of the tunnels since its military coup a year Jane Adas is a free-lance writer based in the New York City metropolitan area.

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and a half ago, Gilbert found that “every institution in Gaza is starved to their knees.” His report details the power shortages, lack of clean water, 70,000 housing units not yet replaced after 2009’s Operation Cast Lead, 75 percent of the population food insecure and dependent on an external supplier, and rising instances of anemia, wasting and stunting among children due to protein malnutrition. Given that the mean age in Gaza is 16.7 years, Gilbert described Israel’s siege and blockade as “the largest child abuse project in the world.”

He had barely returned to his home in Norway when Israel launched its latest military offensive. Upon his return to Gaza, it was Ramadan and everybody was fasting. The doctors and staff had received no salaries since April, because Israel and the U.S. had made the decision not to pay Hamas workers. Still they came to work every day. Even though the Gaza public health sector, particularly hospitals, was already overstretched and in financial crisis, Shifa Hospital alone managed to treat 6,000 patients. Gilbert noted a new Israeli technique: eradicating entire families, especially of Hamas officials or police officers, “as if to eradicate the DNA of resistance.”

Dr. Gilbert was on duty at Shifa when the four boys killed on the beach were brought in. They were all members of the Bakr family, supporters of Fatah. Gilbert heard President Barack Obama that afternoon saying it is “always sad when kids are caught in the crossfire.” This, Gilbert insisted, was a cold lie. There was no Palestinian shooting. “We should demand that our leaders at least know the facts,” he declared. Gilbert does not support Hamas or Fatah; rather, he supports the Palestinian people and their right to choose their leaders, adding that Americans have chosen stupid leaders and nobody bombed them.

In concluding, Dr. Gilbert offhandedly mentioned that he had tried to return to Gaza on Oct. 14 and was denied entry.

The Israeli military told him, “Dr. Mads Gilbert will never again be allowed in Gaza.” He interpreted this as a testament to the power of photos and eyewitness THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

New York City and Tri-StateNews testimony to reveal what Israel would prefer remain hidden.

Academic Freedom on Trial Prof. Max Weiss, “with grave trepidation” and because he recently received tenure, organized a panel discussion on “The Salaita Case and Beyond: Academic Freedom, ‘Civility,’ and the Future of the University” at Princeton University on Oct. 6. A year ago Prof. Steven Salaita resigned a tenured position at Virginia Tech to accept a tenured position in the American Indian Studies Program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. UI-UC made the offer to Salaita after a yearlong national search. Over the summer Salaita posted some angry tweets during Israel’s war on Gaza. In August, apparently after pressure from some donors and alumni, UI-UC Chancellor Phyllis Wise withdrew the offer, citing “civility” as a necessary attribute of free speech. In addition to a possible breach of contract, Weiss cautioned that this case brings up issues of academic freedom, faculty governance and the corporatization of universities.

Columbia University awarded Prof.

Joseph Massad tenure in 2009, following years of outside anti-Palestinian organizations lobbying hard for him to be fired.

Massad, too, was accused of incivility, which he defines as “a form of racial and class denouncement” historically used by white Protestants and assimilated German Jews against East European Jews. Likewise, Massad remembered that some Arab-American colleagues were more concerned about his “vulgar Arab immoderation” when defending colonized Palestinians than other liberal Jewish academics who gave him unequivocal support.

Massad views what almost happened to him, what did happen to Norman Finkelstein when DePaul University denied him tenure, and what is happening to Salaita at UI-UC as skirmishes in a larger campaign to corporatize universities and suppress dissent. Because the mainstream consensus in the U.S. is consistently pro-Israel, the question of Palestine is a useful entry point for the neoliberal makeover of academe, he argued. Massad posited that the tweets JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

STAFF PHOTO J. ADAS

STAFF PHOTO J. ADAS

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Prof. Steven Salaita.

Seated (l-r): Profs. Joseph Massad, Eddie Glaude, Anthony Grafton; standing (l-r): Profs.

Max Weiss and Joan Scott. would never have been an issue had Salaita’s anger been directed against Iran or Hamas. If the tactic is successful, Massad warned, it will have a chilling effect on other kinds of dissent that have more mainstream support, and will also be useful in countering slippage in unconditional support for Israel on college campuses.

The other panelists agreed. Princeton professors Eddie Glaude and Anthony Grafton spoke of the consequences of viewing the university as a profit-motivated corporation rather than an institution: expansion of administrative personnel, increased enrollments at higher tuition rates, a higher proportion of nontenure track faculty, and a larger role for wealthy trustees and donors. This makes the humanities and social sciences vulnerable, since they don’t attract large grants.

Grafton noted that in corporate culture, executives aim to avoid controversy, which is inappropriate in academia. Joan Scott, former chair of the Academic Association of University Professors’ Committee on Academic Freedom, contrasted a corporate approach that aims to make education comfortable for paying clients, i.e. students, with what academe does best— introducing new ideas and ways of thinking, which makes some discomfort inevitable. Hiring decisions, Scott insisted, are an issue for academic peers, not outside donors. The time has come, she concluded, for an Incivility Rights movement.

Dr. Salaita spoke at Rutgers University on Nov. 17 as part of a “Silencing Dissent” tour that entailed eight presentations in the metropolitan area over four days. He JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

began by saying that what happened to him is not exceptional. Jews used to be the ones excluded; before and ever since it has been racial and sexual minorities and indigenous people. Salaita believes his case has attracted attention because the university’s decision, after apparent trustee and/or donor interference, was so egregious. Trustees, he added, are always concerned about funding. So far only one donor has been outed: Steve Miller, who gave $500,000. Salaita described this as chump change to a big research university, meaning the administration was bought off on the cheap. Siding with Israel is less about money than about keeping elite power consolidated—there is never a risk in siding with the elite. For tenured faculty, however, critical thinking is “part of their job description.”

Salaita’s “incivility” took place outside the classroom in an exchange of tweets.

He identified an unexamined assumption operating inside the classroom that scholarship should not be “political,” which he defines as fighting injustice. Academics are supposed to be like nature show photographers—“explicate, but don’t participate.” “Civility” is the informal repression of critical thinking and the silencing of valuable ideas that may be disruptive.

Ironically, the cheerleaders for civility have been abusive. Salaita’s Twitter account is full of comments such as “Suck it, Dude!” On the other hand, he said, he has found the kindness and generosity of the “uncivilized” stunning. He also welcomes the support of people who disagree with him about Israel/Palestine, but THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

oppose what UI-UC did to him, noting that coalitions are forming around the country to protect faculty governance and academic freedom.

Salaita sees “civility” as a regime rooted in power imbalance. He was warned that Jewish students might feel uncomfortable in his class. Beyond the assumption that Jewish students would without exception be Zionists, has anybody ever been concerned about the comfort of Palestinian students in a class led by a Zionist professor?

Salaita asked. People who express contempt for Palestinians, or Arabs, or Muslims are not accused of incivility. To be considered human, Palestinians must denounce incivility and violence, they must grovel. Zionists, however, are never asked to apologize.

Another reason why Salaita’s case has garnered so much attention is because the growing nonviolent BDS (boycott, divestment and sanctions) movement plus disturbing images from Gaza over the summer have isolated Israel more than ever before. “Israel is losing the PR battle,” Salaita said, “and its supporters are therefore striking out.” He cited Megan Marzec, a student at Ohio University who poured a bucket of fake blood over her head to protest Israel’s actions and has since received death threats; Bruce Shipman, who was ousted as chaplain of the Episcopal Church at Yale after expressing sympathy for both sides; and Rabbi Brant Rosen, who felt it necessary to resign from his congregation. Salaita said these are examples of a deeply undemocratic power asserting itself, namely “colonial paranoia.” Palestine, he concluded, is a wonderful entry point for understanding global problems, such as inequity: “The ultimate goal is a state where everybody belongs and everybody has a stake in national identity.” ❑ 43

pasquini_44-45_Northern California Chronicle 12/11/14 5:14 PM Page 44

CAIR-SFBA Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Style

STAFF PHOTO E. PASQUINI

By Elaine Pasquini

Amy Goodman signs copies of her book The Silenced Majority: Stories of Uprisings, Occupations, Resistance and Hope.

Goodman also ex p re s s e d h e r views on news organizations. “I think the media can be the greatest force for peace o n e a r t h ,” s h e commented, “but instead it is too often wielded as a weapon of war and we have to change that.”

Speaking of the need to personalize news articles with the names and photographs of those killed, including soldiers, to show the human cost of war, Goodman noted, “Americans are a compassionate people.

Northern California Chronicle hamead Ibrahim; and the Promoting Justice Award to the Sami Al-Arian family.

Throughout the evening, members of the popular Aswat Ensemble entertained guests with Arabic music from its contemporary and classical repertoire.

Emerging Filmmakers Bring Flair to Arab Cinema The Arab Film Festival (AFF) kicked off its 18th season with the screening of Cherien Dabis’ captivating second feature film, “May in the Summer,” centering on a Palestinian-American bride-to-be’s return to her native Jordan and the complicated relationship she experiences with her family.

Dena Takruri, presenter and producer at AJ+, the new San Francisco-based digital channel from the Al Jazeera Media Network, hosted the opening night program at the iconic Castro Theatre following a special reception for donors and filmmakers.

Some 1,200 film enthusiasts attended the Oct. 10 screening, the largest opening night audience in the AFF’s history.

(CAIR-SFBA), pulled out all the stops in celebrating its 20 years of protecting the civil rights of Muslim Americans. The stellar line-up of speakers, including Nihad Awad, CAIR national executive director; Siraj Wahhaj, imam of New York’s Masjid Al-Taqwa; and Amy Goodman, host of the independent news program “Democracy Now!,” drew a capacity crowd to the Nov. 8 fund-raising banquet at Santa Clara’s Convention Center.

In her keynote address, Goodman discussed flaws in the mainstream media, the origin and impact of the civil rights movement, and the importance of whistleblowers such as Edward Snowden.

“Fifty years after the signing of the Civil Rights Act we have made enormous progress, although we have so much further to go,” she said. “It is critical that we understand the pressure human rights groups are under in this country and that we give voice to people who are trying to change the world to make it a better place.”

Elaine Pasquini is a free-lance journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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They would say ‘no, war is not the answer’ to conflicts in the 21st century.”

Siraj Wahhaj, one of the most popular fund-raisers in CAIR’s history, reminded the audience that “Martin Luther King is gone, Malcolm X is gone, Medgar Evers is gone—all of these civil rights leaders are gone—but today we have CAIR!” CAIR-SFBA presi- Filmmaker Cherien Dabis (l) and AJ+’s Dena Takruri. dent Athar Siddiqee and executive direc“The Arab Film Festival is about showtor Zahra Billoo also spoke, reinforcing the program’s theme “Rooted in Faith, Growing casing the beauty, complexity and diversity of the Arab world, and, most importantly, Through Service.”

Among the community awards pre- letting Arabs tell their own story,” Takruri sented were the Empowering American said. “When we make these films, we conMuslim Award to the Asian Americans/Pa- trol our own narrative and amplify our cific Islanders in Philanthropy; Enhancing voices.” Pointing out that three Arab films Understanding Award to David Washburn; competed at the Oscars this year, she Volunteer of the Year Award to Abdel- quipped, “Anytime an Arab can make it to THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

STAFF PHOTO PHIL PASQUINI

he Council on American-Islamic Rela-

Ttions, San Francisco Bay Area chapter

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STAFF PHOTO PHIL PASQUINI

Hollywood without playing a terrorist, Saudi Arabian Archeological Gems that’s something to celebrate!”

Bring Cultural Crossroads To Life Celebrating his second year at the helm In its last U.S. venue at San Francisco’s of the AFF, executive director Serge Asian Art Museum, “Roads of Arabia: Bakalian also addressed the audience.

Archeology and History of the King“We take great pride in what we do,” he dom of Saudi Arabia” (see Jan./Feb. enthused. “We are not just a film festival.

2013 Washington Report, p. 42) wowed To our non-Arab audiences that come to Northern California museumgoers with our programing we are an inspiration art, artifacts and sculptures from archethat challenges all of the stereotypes and ological excavations in the Arabian misconceptions that are presented in our Peninsula. mass media. To our Arab audiences, our Dr. Ali Ibrahim Al-Ghabban, vice message is about empowerment.” president of antiquities and museums at Bakalian noted that 2014 was the first the Saudi Commission for Tourism and year the festival provided year-round Antiquities and general supervisor of film screenings, including the expanthe King Abdullah Cultural Heritage sion of the Festival for Schools free proCare Project, led journalists on an Oct. graming into Bay Area high schools. In 27 tour of the exhibit, which featured a successful effort to broaden its outsome 200 objects. reach, the AFF established relationships Over thousands of years traders from with international film entities, includAsia, Europe and Africa have traversed ing the Arab Film and TV Awards the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, which will be held in London in February, the Doha Film Institute, and the Dr. Ali Ibrahim Al-Ghabban, vice president of an- making the region an important culDubai International Film Festival. tiquities and museums at the Saudi Commission for tural crossroads.

Discussing the interconnectedness of While all films screened were chosen Tourism and Antiquities, explains the importance for certain outstanding qualities, audi- of a limestone funerary slab engraved in old Arabic. the region, Al-Ghabban pointed out the various scripts—Greek, Latin, two forms ence favorites varied. Among the most talked about were Dimitri Chimenti’s “Just Throw from Prison.” The festival ran of Aramaic and five specific to the Arabian Play,” Mohammed Moawia’s “Journey of a through Nov. 22, with screenings in San Peninsula—found on objects unearthed in Freedom Fighter,” Ahmad Abdalla’s “Rags Francisco, Berkeley, Palo Alto, Oakland, Los the excavations, including limestone funerary slabs engraved in old Arabic. ❑ and Tatters” and Raquel Castells’ “A Stone’s Angeles and San Diego.

Indonesia…

Continued from page 38

paigns by a small but vociferous minority against Christians, Ahmadis and Shi’i.

The law will also protect the rights of Sunni Muslims in parts of eastern Indonesia where the Christian minority has opposed the building of mosques.

Among the worst perpetrators of religious intolerance in Indonesia has been the group known as the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI), which has been implicated in attacks on churches and Ahmadi places of worship, as well as on nightspots where alcohol was served—although it has been reported that a cash payment could normally procure protection for the latter establishments. The FPI took to the streets again after Joko’s resignation as governor of Jakarta following his election to the presidency, this time because his appointed successor as acting governor, Basuki Purnamah, was a Christian. They said that a Christian should not be allowed to head the city administration of the predominantly Muslim Indonesian capital. However, many Muslim organizations supported Basuki and affirmed that, under a democracy, a person should not JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

be barred from office because of his religion.

In a session boycotted by Red-White coalition affiliates, the city council gave formal approval to Basuki’s appointment as governor on Nov. 14. The appointment is doubly significant in that Basuki is an ethnic Chinese, as well as being a Christian. The Chinese community were targeted in riots in 1965 and again as recently as 1998.

Basuki was sworn in on Nov. 19, but the Red-White coalition parties have said they will boycott council meetings to demonstrate their opposition to the new governor, thus leaving them without a quorum.

Among the problems left for the new administration was the reduction of the subsidy on gasoline prices. It was inevitably going to be an unpopular move, although necessary, as the subsidies were eating into the national budget. They had been justified as support for low income Indonesians, but most of the benefits went to business. Joko sweetened the pill for the poor by introducing programs that will help more than 100 million low income people obtain free medical care and subsidized school uniforms and books.

The raising of the price of gas by more THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

than 30 percent, it was pointed out, would free up money for spending on infrastructure, hospitals and schools. The move was made easier by the fall in oil prices globally; cutting subsidies when the price was high would have been more difficult.

True to form, the opposition protested at the fuel price rise, although, had its candidate won the election, it is doubtful whether it could have avoided a similar move. It simply seems that, whatever the Joko administration does, it will be opposed by Prabowo and his allies.

The first skirmishes following Joko’s inauguration reinforce the impression given by the elections: that two visions of Indonesia’s future are in play. One is of a more open and democratic country, with social policies aimed at raising the living standards and improving the opportunities for the poorer sectors of the people, and the other is of a form of oligarchic rule where a self-perpetuating elite holds the reins of power, opposes reform and draws off illicit incomes from the state machinery. Joko already has made some compromises to win allies, some of whom are firmly part of the establishment, yet he still appears determined to follow the path of reform. ❑ 45

twair_46-47_Southern California Chronicle 12/11/14 9:34 PM Page 46

U.S. Needs to Put Its Principles Into Practice, Nobel Peace Laureate Tells CAIR-LA

Southern California Chronicle

By Pat and Samir Twair

Tlaib became Michigan’s first female Muslim legislator in 2008, when she was elected by Detroit voters. The daughter of Palestinian immigrants, she embodies the American dream of success and earned her law degree by attending weekend classes while holding a full-time job. Appointed the Democratic vice chairwoman of the House Fiscal Governing Committee, she established a neighborhood service center with 12 programs assisting low-income families.

STAFF PHOTO S. TWAIR

Gaza’s Human Shields

Nobel Laureate Tawakkol Karman (l) and Hussam Ayloush, executive director of CAIR-LA. ecause the thousands of Southern Cal-

Bifornia Muslims who are members of

the Council on American-Islamic RelationsLos Angeles regard the organization as family, they eagerly anticipate CAIR’s annual November fund-raising gala as the beginning of their holiday season. This year’s, which took place Nov. 8 in the Disneyland Hotel, was no exception, judging by the spirit of good will and enthusiasm shared by the more than 1,800 guests.

The record-breaking attendance could be attributed in large part to the featured speakers, two headline-making Muslim women: Tawakkol Karman, a co-recipient of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize, and Michigan State Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

A journalist and activist for women’s empowerment in Yemen, Karman was jailed several times for organizing protests against government repression and publishing annual reports on human rights abuses during Yemen’s revolution. Karman admitted that her nation has many problems, but said that Yemenis share a dream of democracy, peace and love, as all Arabs do.

“All of you have to rise to make America better based on its principles of human Pat and Samir Twair are free-lance journalists based in Los Angeles.

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rights, acceptance, coexistence, freedom and equality,” she added. “We need this America, because when it’s away from its values, all the world is away from them.”

Apologizing for her English, Karman urged audience members to be good citizens, “to be everywhere” and “be in the front of the line” when the need for change arises.

The high incidence of Palestinian civilian deaths during Israel’s 51-day bombardment of Gaza has resulted in Israel resorting to theoretical arguments to justify these numbers. This effort was the topic of a Nov. 7 talk by Neve Gordon at UCLA titled “On Human Shields in Gaza” and sponsored by the Center for Near Eastern Studies (CNES). Gordon, who teaches in the politics and government department of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel, wrote for the Washington Report in the late 1990s.

He used the term “semiotic warfare” to describe the Israeli hasbara (propaganda) effort, and its charge that Hamas hid munitions in homes, schools, hospitals and even mosques. Therefore Israel felt justified in redefining these structures not as civilian

UCLA Center Loses Title VI Funding UCLA’s Center for Near Eastern Studies (CNES) is among the nation’s most prestigious and established institutions of Middle East scholarship, but in September, it was informed that its Title VI funding for the coming four-year cycle had not been renewed. No reason for this decision was given by CNES director Prof.

Gabriel Piterberg, who said this will result in a cut to Middle Eastern language classes.

In what seems like a remarkable coincidence, the virulently pro-Israel organization, Amcha (Yiddish for “your people”) published a 100-page report on CNES programs, specifically citing a January 2009 symposium and a February 2014 talk

by Israeli scholar Ilan Pappe as biased and chilling to Jewish students. The CNES Faculty Advisory Committee has posted a statement titled “Setting the Record Straight” on the Center website, <http://international.ucla.edu/cnes/artcle/146247>. This writer remembers that in the 1970s there were no moral watch dogs on campus to protect Arab students’ sensitivities from hostile reactions whenever they sponsored a program about Palestine.

Amcha also has targeted professors who called for an academic boycott of Israel after it launched its 2014 assault on Gaza. In response, 40 Jewish professors signed an open letter on Oct. 3 that Amcha was stifling free speech.

—P.T.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

STAFF PHOTO S. TWAIR

twair_46-47_Southern California Chronicle 12/11/14 9:34 PM Page 47

Neve Gordon (l) and Prof. Gabriel Piterberg, UCLA CNES director.

Arab World Workshop Each October, Los Angeles K-12 teachers have the opportunity to be introduced to Islam and the Arab World by recognized local experts at two Saturday workshops conducted at United Teachers Los Angeles headquarters. As an added incentive, the course, sponsored by the L.A. Fellowship of Reconciliation and Unified School District (LAUSD), offers one LAUSD salary point after homework assignments are completed and approved.

This year, 24 teachers signed up for the Oct. 18 and 25 sessions. The first workshop was an introduction to Islam and American Muslims presented by Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Greater L.A. Chapter of the Council on AmericanIslamic Relations (CAIR). Dr. Laila alMarayati addressed misconceptions about Muslim women and discussed leading female figures in Islamic history.

The Oct. 25 session opened with the controversial topic “Palestine/Israel,” presented by Santa Monica College adjunct professor of history Jeff Cooper. Participants also were given an in-depth look at the changing Arab political governments, as well as a history of the region’s diverse cultures and sects. These were led jointly JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

by editor and educator Tony Litwinko and re s e a rc h e r a n a ly s t William Picard.

In a follow-up hourand-a-half session, the two men discussed possible roles the U.S. could play in the region, as well as the political situations in Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Yemen. After 100 years of paternalistic meddling by Western powers, the division of the Arab world into artificial “nations” designated by the Sykes-Picot Agreement of 1914-16 TOP: Arab World workshop panelists (l-r) Tony Litwinko, Jeff has been obliterated, Cooper and William Picard. ABOVE: Viewing art works at the annual House of Lebanon exhibition are (l-r) Ferial Masry, exLitwinko pointed out.

Rounding out the ex- hibit chairman Reem Hammad and Norman Tanber. haustive introduction was a lesson on “Music of the Arab Near debut at an Oct. 18 public reception and East” by Dr. Sami Asmar and musicians program in the House of Lebanon on from the UCLA School of Ethnomusicol- Wilshire Boulevard. Reem Hammad was in ogy, who demonstrated musical theory and charge of selecting a cross section of artisstructure, rhythms, traditional instruments tic expression from local Arab-American and sung poetry. artists ranging from films, calligraphy, ceJudging by the caliber and expertise of ramics, prints, watercolor and oil paintthe specialists who conducted the sessions ings. A musical program completed the and the subject matter they selected and evening’s festivities. explained, these writers believe that future Six short movies by community filmsessions of “Learning About Islam and the makers were screened the following day.

Arab World” should be recorded in DVD Pre-registration in a children’s mosaic format and sold nationally to the general workshop and in classes in Arab calligrapublic as well as to educators. phy, printmaking and decorative tile is being taken at <art@houseoflebanon.

Beyond Borders Exhibit com>. For information on classes in An impressive display of professional qual- Lebanese cooking, music, dance and voice ity art work in a variety of media made its classes, call (323) 965-8000. ❑ STAFF PHOTOS S. TWAIR

shelters but as military targets. Even an individual might be planning a suicide bombing, so would be a legitimate target.

According to this reasoning, the author of Israel’s Occupation noted, it is Hamas that should be held responsible for civilian deaths because all Gazans were hostages of Hamas. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are studying the issue of hostages, Gordon said.

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brownfeld_48-49_Israel and Judaism 12/11/14 5:17 PM Page 48

Lamenting the Decline of “Liberal Zionism” Is Futile—Since It Never Really Existed Israel andJudaism

AFP/GETTY IMAGES

By Allan C. Brownfeld

An Israeli soldier watches Palestinian refugees crossing the Allenby Bridge to reach Jordan, June 22, 1967, after the Israeli-launched Six-Day War created 350,000 Palestinian refugees.

They joined their fellow 750,000 refugees created by Israel’s establishment in 1948. n Israel now, almost no one speaks of a

I“two-state” solution any more.

Land that would constitute a Palestinian state is being settled by Israel. Palestinian officials say that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has refused to outline the borders of a Palestinian state or the size of areas Israel proposes to keep, or to commit publicly to land swaps to compensate the Palestinians for any adjustment to the 1967 boundary.

Israel seems to feel that Washington has given it a blank check to continue its occupation policies and therefore need no longer even pretend to support a two-state solution.

Gadi Wolfsfeld, a professor of political communication at the Interdisciplinary Center in Herzlya, Israel, said of Netanyahu: “The truth is that he is not really nervous about America or the world anymore because until now, nobody has done anything.”

At the same time, racism and religious exAllan C. Brownfeld is a syndicated columnist and associate editor of the Lincoln Review, a journal published by the Lincoln Institute for Research and Education, and editor of Issues, the quarterly journal of the American Council for Judaism.

48

tremism are growing in Israel. In their bestselling book The King’s Torah, Rabbis Yitzhak Shapira and Yosef Elitzur state that, “The prohibition ‘Thou Shalt Not Murder’ applies only to a Jew who kills a Jew.” NonJews are “uncompassionate by nature,” they write, and attacks on them “curb their evil inclinations,” while the babies and children of Israel’s enemies may be killed since “it is clear that they will grow up to harm us.”

According to Prof. Emanuel Gutmann of Hebrew University, “Overall, Israeli society has turned to the right. Israeli society in general is less tolerant, less interested in compromise, and more accepting of force than it was in the past.”

New Yorker editor David Remnick writes in the magazine’s Nov. 17 issue that “Israeli politicians often speak of the country’s singularity as ‘the sole democracy in the Middle East,’ ‘the villa in the jungle.’ They engage far less often with the challenges to democratic practice in Israel: the resurgence of hate speech; attacks by settlers on Palestinians and their property in the West Bank; the Knesset’s attempt to rein in leftwing human rights organizations; and, most of all, the unequal status of Israeli THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Palestinians and the utter lack of civil rights for the Palestinians in the West Bank. A recent poll revealed that a third of Israelis think that Arab citizens of Israel— the nearly two million Arabs living in Israel proper, not the West Bank—should not have the right to vote....More explicitly jingoistic and racist elements now operate closer to the center of Israeli political life. Some well-known figures in the religious world speak openly in an anti-democratic rhetoric of Jewish supremacy.”

These trends have caused many to lament what Antony Lerman, a former director of the Institute for Jewish Policy Research and author of The Making and Unmaking of a Zionist, called “The End of Liberal Zionism” in an article in the Aug. 24 New York Times. “Liberal Zionists are at a crossroads,” he states. “The original tradition of combining Zionism and liberalism— which meant ending the occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, supporting a Palestinian state as well as a Jewish state with a permanent Jewish majority, and standing behind Israel when it was threatened—was well intentioned. But everything liberal Zionism stands for is now in doubt.”

In his book The Crisis of Zionism (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More), author Peter Beinart refers to himself as a “liberal Zionist,” and expresses concern about what he sees as Israel’s retreat from its traditional “liberal” values. According to Beinart, “When Israel’s founders wrote the country’s Declaration of Independence, which calls for a Jewish state that ‘ensures complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants, irrespective of religion, race or sex’ they understood that Zionism and democracy was not only compatible, the two were inseparable.”

Those who believe that Israel is now in the process of abandoning its founding philosophy of “liberal Zionism” are engaged in a futile enterprise, for that “liberal” Zionism never existed—it is simply a convenient myth. They have not confronted a contrary thesis—one supported by history—that Zionism was flawed from the beginning, not only by ignoring the existing indigenous Palestinian population, but by rejecting the dominant spiritual history and essence of Judaism.

To understand the injustice which Zionism has inflicted upon the Palestinians, it is essential to consider the indifference of the JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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early Zionists as well as of the British government, which issued the Balfour Declaration, to transfer ownership of a piece of land it had gained through war.

As the French Jewish historian Maxime Rodinson notes in his book Israel: A Colonial-Settler State, “Wanting to create a purely Jewish or predominantly Jewish state in Arab Palestine in the 20th century could not help but lead to a colonial-type situation and the development of a racist state of mind, and in the final analysis, to a military confrontation.”

Such colonization seemed “perfectly natural” given the atmosphere of the time, Rodinson writes: “[Theodor] Herzl’s plan unquestionably fit into the great movement of European expansion of the 19th and 20th centuries, the great European imperialist groundswell.”

The immediate issue for the Zionists in the late 19th century was what they called “the Arab problem” in Palestine, an indigenous population 92 percent Arab. The early Zionists, declares Israeli historian Benny Morris in Righteous Victims: A History of the Zionist-Arab Conflict, 1881-2001, saw that the establishment of a Jewish state would require the removal of these Palestinian Arabs. The idea of removal, he notes, “goes back to the fathers of modern Zionism...one of the main currents of Zionist ideology from the movement’s inception.” Herzl accepted the removal (“transfer”) of the Palestinians, though he emphasized the need for diplomatic caution in the face of Ottoman, British and larger Arab vested interests.

According to Morris, the Zionist settlers referred to Palestinians as “mules” and behaved “like lords and masters, some apparently resorting to the whip at the slightest provocation...a major source of Arab animosity.”

The only “liberal” Zionism to be found in these early years was that of a handful of “cultural Zionists,” who sought to establish a Jewish cultural center in Palestine, not a sovereign and exclusively Jewish state. The most important of these was the Russian Jewish writer and philosopher Ahad Ha’am.

In 1891, the Lovers of Zion sent Ahad Ha’am from Russia to observe conditions in Palestine. He wrote that the Jewish settlers arriving in Palestine from Europe “behaved toward the [Palestinian] Arabs with hostility and cruelty, trespass unjustly upon their boundaries, beat them shamefully without reason and even brag about it.”

The early Zionists used the slogan, “A land without people, for a people without land.” But Ha’am wrote: “From abroad we are accustomed to believe that Eretz Israel is presently almost totally desolate, an uncultivated desert, and that anyone wishing JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

to buy land there can come and buy all he wants. But, in truth, it is not so. In the entire land, it is hard to find tillable land that is not already tilled...If the time comes when the life of our people in Eretz Israel develops to the point of encroaching upon the native population, they will not easily yield their place.”

There were always a few who questioned the prevailing view of Jewish-Arab relations. At a meeting in Basel, Switzerland during the 7th Zionist Congress in 1905— decades before the European Holocaust— Yitzhak Epstein, a teacher who had migrated to Palestine, raised what he called the “hidden question.” He declared: “Among the difficult problems associated with the idea of the renewal of the life of our people in its land, there is one question that outweighs all the others, namely the question of our attitude to the Arabs. We have overlooked a rather ‘marginal’ fact—that in our beloved land lives an entire people that has been dwelling there for many centuries and has never considered leaving it.”

“Palestine Belongs to Others” At the same time, another early Zionist, Hillel Zeitlin, who wrote in Hebrew and Yiddish, charged that Zionists “forget, mistakenly or maliciously, that Palestine belongs to others, and it is totally settled.”

These few dissident voices constitute the essence of the alleged “liberal Zionism” which existed as the expropriation of the land proceeded. As Moshe Sharett, a future Israeli prime minister, acknowledged, “We have come to conquer a country from a people inhabiting it...the land must be ours alone.”

Another example of what one might call “liberal Zionism” manifested itself in 1925, when several prominent intellectuals, most of them émigrés from Central Europe who were teaching at Hebrew University, formed Brit Shalom (Covenant of Peace), which backed a binational state of Arabs and Jews. The group’s members looked to Ha’am, rather than Herzl, as their mentor. They rejected the attempt to impose a Jewish state on Palestine’s Arabs as politically impossible without the use of force, and they saw doing this as contrary to the ethical principles of Judaism.

The group’s chairman, the sociologist Arthur Ruppin, described their objective as “to settle the Jews, as a second people, in a country already inhabited by another people, and accomplish this peacefully.” This group enjoyed the support of Albert Einstein, Martin Buber and Judah Magnes, the first president of Hebrew University. It was small, attracted few members—and soon faded away.

Those who look at Israel’s current policies, such as continued construction and settlement of the occupied territories, are THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

wrong to blame the country’s right wing.

Labor and Likud Israeli governments alike have advanced the occupation. Both rightand left-wing Israelis, apparently, are comfortable with the status quo. Those who lament what they think is the decline—or end—of “liberal Zionism” must seriously consider the possibility that Zionism, from the start, not only turned its back on the Jewish universal spiritual tradition but, by ignoring the rights of the indigenous population of Palestine, on Western principles of democracy and self-determination as well. “Liberal Zionism” is not dead or dying. The truth is that it never existed at all, except in the minds of those who could not confront what was happening at the hands of an enterprise they eagerly embraced from afar, ignoring its harsh reality.

That reality has now become clear to all, hence the current shock and dismay. Yet, the organized American Jewish community, and the U.S. government, both of which continue to aid and abet these developments, continue to turn away from what is happening. They will not be able to continue to do so very much longer. ❑ (Advertisement)

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Arab American Patriots and Peacemakers Honored on Capitol Hill The Arab American National Museum (AANM) in Dearborn, Michigan brought its marvelous exhibit, “Patriots and Peacemakers: Arab Americans in Service to Our Country,” to the Rotunda of the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, DC, where it was on view from Nov. 10 to 14.

This unique exhibition honors Arab Americans, both Muslim and Christian, who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, Peace Corps and the diplomatic corps.

Viewers are introduced to men and women who have served their country with dignity, loyalty and sacrifice.

Tens of thousands of Arab Americans have served in the military. Princeton Prof.

Philip Hitti found that 13,965 Arab Americans served in World War I, while additional scholars say 15,000 Arab Americans served in WW II. According to the Association for Patriotic Arab Americans in the Military, there are 3,500 Arab Americans in the military today.

Arab Americans started serving in the Peace Corps shortly after it was established in 1961. AANM has collected 35 stories from Americans like Ruth Ann Skaff, who served in Morocco in the 1970s and now works for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is based in Memphis.

Arab Americans are valued diplomats, and have served as ambassadors, consular officers, cultural attachés and in other important positions. Former Sen. George Mitchell (D-ME) helped steer peace negotiations in Ireland; Edward Gabriel served

as U.S. ambassador to Morocco; Marcelle M. Wahba was ambassador to the UAE; Yousif Ghafari was ambassador to Slovenia; Theodore Kattouf was ambassador to the UAE and Syria; and Susan Ziadeh has served as U.S. ambassador to Qatar since 2011. Many of those Arab-American diplomats, military leaders and volunteers attended the opening reception, including Ambassador Selwa “Lucky” Roosevelt, who received a standing ovation.

In fact, many Arab-American visitors posted names on notecards in the “Honor Garden,” and described individuals they know—teachers, parents and local heroes—who have nobly served their community.

—Delinda C. Hanley

Muslim American Activism Professor Shireen Hunter Discusses The History of Islam in Iran

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

Georgetown University professor Shireen Hunter debuted her new book, Iran Divided: The Historical Roots of Iranian Debates on Identity, Culture, and Governance in the 21st Century, on Nov. 5 at Georgetown’s Washington, DC campus. She used the occasion to discuss the ways in which Islam has shaped Iranian politics and society.

The professor began by stressing the important role of history in Iranian culture, calling it “incredibly relevant” to presentday national politics. While the nation has experienced many “ruptures” in its history, she noted, Iranians take pride in the continuity of their culture.

In Hunter’s opinion, no “rupture” in Iranian history has had as much of an impact as the 7th century Arab invasion, which introduced Islam and led to the decline of Zoroastrianism. This historical event, she said, “left Iran with what I call a divided soul,” as many Iranians at first were apprehensive about Islam.

Islam became more approachable for Iranians in the early 16th century, with the Safavid conversion of the country from Sunni Islam to Shi’ism, Hunter said. Shi’ism, she argued, provided cover for nationalism and expressions of Persian identity.

Advancing several centuries, (L-r) Ambassador Theodore H. Kattouf, president of Hunter discussed the 1979 Iranian AMIDEAST, talks with Arab League Ambassador revolution. While this event has Mohammed Alsharif and Arab-American Congress- been dubbed the “Islamic Revoluman Nick Rahall, II (D-WV) at the exhibit’s open- tion,” she cautioned that this ing reception. Dr. George Cody (in background) was a moniker is somewhat misleading.

Peace Corps volunteer in Bahrain.

In Hunter’s view, the left was the 50

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Arab American Activism

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Prof. Shireen Hunter discusses her new book, which explores the role of religion in Iranian politics. principle force behind the shah’s ouster.

“The left made the revolution in Iran,” she stated, “and then the right took over.”

Hunter explained that Iranian liberals “wanted a socialist government with an Islamic veneer,” and thus courted religious figures such as Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini with the intention of manipulating them to achieve their own political goals.

The clerics, however, outsmarted the liberals, Hunter said. “[Ayatollah Khomeini] played them like a fiddle,” she stated. “Their power ambitions blinded them,” she added, noting that liberals eager to overthrow the shah failed to properly vet the ayatollah and mistakenly believed he was a democrat. “They didn’t even bother to go read what he had written. He was very honest about his plans.”

While the leftist plot failed, Hunter believes the Islamic Republic is beginning to lose its legitimacy. Iranians don’t desire extremist politics (be it from the left or the right), she said, and are beginning to push for a government that does not derive its power from religion. Hunter estimated that around 60 to 65 percent of Iranians believe the domains of politics and religion should be kept separate.

This is not to say that Iranians view religion as unimportant, she stressed. Instead, they—unlike the clerics—believe that, in the public sphere, the nation should be emphasized over religion. She described Iranians as wanting “Iranian Islam, not an Islamic Iran.” This pre-1979 thinking, Hunter concluded, “for many centuries strengthened the country.”

—Dale Sprusansky JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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stated, emphasizing that it simply recounts Bahari’s experience and highlights a more complex Iran that Americans have not Jon Stewart Makes Directorial Debut seen. He also noted that issues such as With Film on Iran journalistic repression and solitary confinement are universal concerns, including Students and scholars alike crammed into in the United States.

Georgetown University’s historic Gaston Stewart does hope, however, that the Hall on Nov. 9 to watch an advance screenfilm will help leaders in Tehran and elseing of “Rosewater,” a film directed by popwhere understand that repressive polices ular television host Jon Stewart. “Rosewaare self-defeating and shortsighted. “Hopeter” is based on the 2011 memoir of Canafully what is taken from this dian-Iranian journalist Maziar film is the unsustainability of Bahari, who was detained by these approaches [of intimidaauthorities in Iran for 118 tion],” he said. This, he exdays while covering the counplained, is why the film ends try’s controversial 2009 presiwith a child using his phone dential election. to record authorities destroyFollowing the screening, ing satellites on the roof of a Bahari and Stewart engaged residence. Voices simply canthe audience in a humorous not be repressed in an era of and informative questionbountiful technology, he beand-answer session. lieves.

The film begins with Bahari Commenting on how the being dispatched from Lonfilm will be interpreted by don to Iran by Newsweek to Iran’s detractors, Bahari accover the presidential elecknowledged that there is a tion. Upon arriving, he bedelicate balance between friends a young Iranian driver standing up for human rights who takes Bahari to meet with supporters of opposition can- Jon Stewart (l) discusses his new film, “Rosewater,” which explores the and not supporting warmondidate Mir Hossein Mousavi. detention of journalist Maziar Bahari (r) by Iranian authorities in 2009. gers.

He believes the film not After incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is declared the “Rosewater” ought to make viewers with- only highlights human rights issues but winner, large protests (known as the Green out strong pre-existing beliefs revisit their also points out the folly of war with Iran.

“You’re bombing a country, you’re bombMovement) break out, claiming that the opinions of the country.

This, Stewart explained, was one of his ing a people, and that would be a great setelection was rigged. When footage recorded by Bahari of protesters being shot goals in producing the movie. “The film back for the reformists,” Bahari warned. is aired on Western television, he is ar- shows a part of Iran that people haven’t He also emphasized that the Islamic Reseen,” he said, noting that the first half of public is simply one phase of Iran’s long rested and charged with espionage.

In prison, Bahari is abused and kept in the film deliberately highlights the lives of history, and that it therefore must not be solitary confinement. The only person he ordinary Iranians, including those living seen as representative of the culture or as a has contact with is his interrogator, who in some of Tehran’s lower-class neighbor- permanent reality.

Describing his time in prison, Bahari wears rosewater cologne. The interrogator hoods. Stewart hopes that this will help accuses the journalist of being a spy and Western viewers realize how much they noted that the authorities were extremely claims to have evidence. It turns out the have in common with ordinary Iranians tactful. His interrogator was referred to as evidence is video footage of Bahari partic- and bring an end to the broad demoniza- his “owner” and was present at his arrest.

Furthermore, the interrogator was the only ipating in a television interview with a tion of the country.

Asked if he fears the film’s focus on person Bahari was able to communicate “spy.” The “spy” is actually a correspondent from Stewart’s “Daily Show” who was human rights violations by the Iranian with for more than 100 days.

“They deprive you of all of your senses,” in Iran to shoot a satirical segment on the regime will be used as fodder by detractors of a nuclear agreement, Stewart said such he said. “In that isolated situation, you beelection.

After some back-and-forth with his in- concerns don’t enter his mind. “For those come delusional and sometimes suicidal.” terrogator, Bahari agrees to make a taped that don’t want a deal, they will use any- While he did contemplate ending his life, confession in exchange for his release. He thing to kill the deal,” he explained. “You Bahari said, reflecting on positive memois not immediately released, however, until cannot control what idiots will ries of his family helped him persevere his case begins to make international news. weaponize,” he continued, stressing that through his detainment. (Bahari’s father To those familiar with Iran’s 2009 elec- he never censors himself because ignorant was imprisoned by the shah for being a tion, little in “Rosewater” will come as a or malicious individuals may misrepresent communist, while the Islamic Republic detained his sister under the same charges.) surprise. The film’s focus on human rights his message.

“Rosewater,” which was shot in Jordan, Furthermore, Stewart insisted that the and regime brutality has been duly noted in prior documentaries and books on the film is not meant to target the Islamic Re- was released in theaters on Nov. 14.

—Dale Sprusansky public. “This film demonizes no one,” he subject.

While its topic is somewhat hackneyed, “Rosewater” is nonetheless enjoyable. The characters are relatable, the plot is intriguing and there are moments of much-appreciated humor. The film also serves as an important and extremely timely reminder that there is much more to Iran than its nuclear program. Given that this film’s target audience is everyday Americans who do not spend much time mulling over the complexities of Iran, the nuances raised by

STAFF PHOTO D. SPRUSANSKY

Music & Arts

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Former Middle East Books and More director Adam Chamy’s illustration of the poem.

More than 40 artists interpreted the poem “And We Have Countries” by Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish for a Jerusalem Fund Gallery exhibit on view from Nov. 21 to Jan. 6. Curator Dagmar Painter gave them a challenge: They could use paint, ceramics, mosaics, photography, drawing, metalwork, glass, sculpture, graphics and film—any art form they wanted—but their piece had to be 6 inches x 8 inches in size. Artist interpretations depicted specific lines from the poem, or used the words as inspiration for their own work.

After puzzling through the show on opening night, and talking with some of the local participating artists, guests were treated to a poetry slam, with readings from works by Darwish and local poets.

—Delinda C. Hanley

Human Rights Bethlehem University Hosts Legacy Dinner in DC Friends and benefactors of Bethlehem University gathered at the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in Washington, DC on Nov. 2 for a dinner in celebration of the university. Proceeds from the evening helped fund the university’s library renovation project.

The $3.8 million library project is part of a comprehensive plan to improve the school’s facilities over the coming decades.

Thus far, about $2 million has been raised for the library. Once complete, the reno52

vated library will feature a rooftop café, a quiet study area, Wi-Fi and other technological enhancements.

Brother Peter Bray, FSC, vice chancellor of Bethlehem University, opened the evening by noting that operating a university in occupied territory poses many challenges. For instance, he noted that students from Jerusalem and elsewhere in the West Bank often have difficulty reaching campus due to checkpoints and other so-called Israeli “security measures.”

That being said, Brother Bray chose not to dwell on the negative, and devoted the majority of his talk to discussing Bethlehem University’s uplifting mission.

Founded in 1973 by the Vatican and the De La Salle Christian Brothers, the university is devoted to enhancing the lives of Palestinians, he said: “We want to raise to distinction these young people that we have.”

Bethlehem University is an unashamedly Christian school in a Muslim-majority country, Brother Bray said. This, however, does not mean that the school forces its student population to accept Catholic theology. Rather, he explained, it means the school cares for the well-being of all its students. “Our goal is to bring life in all its fullness to the young people entrusted to us, be they Muslim, Christian or of no faith,” he said. “We want to create an environment where people know they are safe, where they know people really care about them.”

Academically, he said, the school develops its offerings based on the needs of Palestine. One such need is improving the country’s tourism industry, Bray noted, which is why the school has a program that trains students in the art of hospitality.

Concluding his remarks, Bray said he is convinced Bethlehem University is making a real difference. “I’ve never been in a place where it’s so obvious that what we

are doing is worthwhile,” he commented.

Later in the evening, Fr. Larry Snyder, president and CEO of Catholic Charities, received the Bethlehem University Medallion in recognition of his years of service as a priest and his support for Bethlehem University. Father Snyder reminded those in attendance that Pope Francis has described the Church as a “field hospital,” and encouraged everyone to be agents of hope and healing.

Omar Faqih, counselor of the General Delegation of the PLO to the United States, offered some remarks as well. He commended Bethlehem University for making great contributions to Palestinian society and for playing a vital role in helping build state institutions.

—Dale Sprusansky

Rothchild and Barber Describe Gaza From the Ground

The Foundation for Middle East Peace cohosted a Nov. 10 talk at New America Foundation offices in Washington, DC about the day-to-day realities of life in Israel and Palestine leading up to, during, and after the 51 days of war between Israel and Gaza.

Journalist Samer Badawi, who covered the latest round of conflict in Gaza for +972 Magazine, moderated a lively discussion between physician/filmmaker/author Alice Rothchild and New America fellow Brian K. Barber.

Dr. Rothchild was part of a health and human rights delegation to the West Bank and Israel just as the summer conflict began. “What was unleashed felt like a pogrom,” Rothchild commented, complete with mass arrests, vitriolic incitement and placing blame squarely on Hamas with no evidence. In a normal country, if three people were kidnapped, there would be an investigation, arrest and trial, she pointed out. In Israel, there is horrific war, collective punishment, and the prime minister compares humans to blades of grass and “mows the lawn.”

For the first time in Gaza children are begging in the streets, women are turning to prostitution and the only growth industry is human smuggling— Gazans are trying to leave on dangerous boats.

Barber, who has been Omar Faqih of the PLO (l) and Br. Peter Bray celebrate Bethle- researching the dynamhem University. ics of Palestinian famiPHOTO COURTESY BETHLEHEM UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

“And We Have Countries”

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

spectable elections fiscation of Palestinian land in the West against Fatah because of Bank, the mayor explained just how much corruption or the unsuc- of Wadi Foquin’s territory has been abcessful peace talks, she sorbed by Jewish settlements. “In 1948 our countered, adding with a area had 1,200 acres. Now we have only twinkle, “Israeli voters 300,” Sokar stated. “On Aug. 31, Israeli solturn former Irgun terror- diers came to our village to place signs statists into prime minis- ing that Israel was confiscating another ters.”

150 acres, leaving us with only 150.”

Badawi noted that he, In addition to land being taken from a Palestinian, writes for Wadi Foquin, four neighboring farming (L-r) Samer Badawi, Alice Rothchild and Brian Barber answer an Israeli magazine. villages, Husan, Nahalin, Surif and Jab’a, Many Israelis think also have been given notices of land exquestions about Gaza. peace is possible, he said. propriation.

Another listener asked Rothchild about The illegal Israeli settlements of Betar lies since the first intifada, described the toll taken as a result of wars, not to men- how her message is received by American Illit (population 40,000) and Hadar Betar tion the burden of increasing restrictions Jewish audiences. It’s painful to admit, she overlook the village on one side, while the on Palestinians who grow up and raise replied, but people critical of Israeli policy Israeli town of Tzur Hadassa sits on an opare called “self-hating” Jews and not wel- posite hill. The nearby settlement of families in Gaza.

Americans believe Gaza is full of hatred come in mainstream America. She de- Gavaot—one of 22 illegal settlements in the and violence, Barber said, but that is just scribed her latest Hillel kerfuffle. “They Etzion block—is also expanding on Palesnot true. He described a conversation he use McCarthyesque tactics to shut people tinian land. “If they continue building, we had with a polite, quiet student who raised like me up...They squelch discussion. It’s will be a village totally surrounded by sethis hand and asked Barber to tell Ameri- very un-Jewish—we argue with each tlements,” Sokar lamented.

Sokar went on to describe how sewage cans, “we aren’t all terrorists.” His students other. It doesn’t feel right. But students are always ask “Do you like Gaza?” and “Will smart and they’ll read what they want to water from the Betar Illit settlement flows down to flood Wadi Foquin’s agricultural you ever come back?” Barber has been read.”

Just World Books publisher Helena Cob- fields and contaminates drinking water. coming back for years.

The expanding settlement activity, along On his last visit, after the 51-day attack, ban edited Rothchild’s recent blog posts he expected to hear “a deluge of anguish” and turned them into an excellent book, with the contamination of farmland, has from his friend Ahmed. Instead Ahmed On the Brink: Israel and Palestine on the Eve egregiously harmed the village economy, as beamed as he told Barber that his youngest of the 2014 Gaza Invasion (available from most residents earn a living from farming, a generations-old tradition in the area. The sister, Noor, had passed her qualifying AET’s Middle East Books and More).

—Delinda C. Hanley economy also suffers from farmers’ inabilexam with 93 percent. Of course, with the ity to sell their produce in Jerusalem, since war they couldn’t have a party to celebrate Wadi Foquin Threatened by Ongoing most are denied permits by Israeli authorher achievement. ities to visit the nearby city.

Gazans don’t talk about their suffering, Land Confiscation Rev. Michael Yoshii, pastor at Buena Barber said. You have to probe to hear the “Wadi Foquin is an island,” Ahmad Sokar, stories—fathers who receive a warning mayor of the West Bank village of 1,400, Vista United Methodist Church in phone call to gather their family and leave told guests at San Francisco’s Arab Cultural Alameda, California, is one of the founders of Friends of Wadi Foquin, an organization their home in five minutes. They can’t de- and Community Center on Nov. 19. cide where to go—to the inlaws who live Pointing to maps detailing Israel’s con- supporting the town’s residents in their fight against occupation, settleby the power plant? To the sisment building and land approter who lives near a mosque priation by the Israeli governwhich is also a target? Over the ment, in addition to other qualyears, Barber’s friends have beity of life issues. come more religious, he obYoshii explained the group’s served. “They make life work fund-raising efforts to help amid despair.”

Wadi Foquin residents. Among Many in the audience shared the village’s needs, he said, are a their grief for Gaza, including cultural hall and theater, a socTom Getman, who worked with cer field, electricity for some resWorld Vision for 25 years, and idents and farmers, 10 classsaid, “most of what I did was rooms for the school, a sanitadestroyed.” Others posed hostile tion project, and rehabilitation questions. One audience memof the school grounds and roads. ber pointed out Gazans voted Following talks in San Jose, for Hamas terrorists. “It’s easy to Berkeley and Oakland, Sokar, blame the victims for what is happening in Palestine,” Ahmad Sokar, mayor of Wadi Foquin, points out settlement ex- Yoshii and Adel Hroub, youth Rothchild replied. Polls showed pansion to guests at San Francisco’s Arab Cultural and Commu- coordinator for the Wadi Foquin Community Development ProPalestinians actually voted in re- nity Center.

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and sexually assaulted by Israeli authorities, Dalack lamented. He also complained that the jury was sequestered, something he described as unusual for “minute immigration charges,” and possibly intimidated jurors.

“This was not just about lying on an immigration forum,” Dalack maintained.

Waging Peace Rather, he believes Odeh was targeted for political reasons and because of her promiUnequal Treatment: Are Pro-Palestine nent role in the Arab- and PalestinianGroups Targeted on Campus?

American communities.

Dima Khalidi, co-founder of the PalesThe Institute for Palestine Studies hosted a Nov. 21 discussion in Washington, DC to tine Solidarity Legal Support network, outexplore the treatment of pro-Palestine lined the challenges faced by campus groups on American college campuses. The groups such as Students for Justice in event, titled “The Legal Assault on Pales- Palestine (SJP). Surveillance and infiltratinian Rights Activism,” was moderated by tion, legislation, criminal prosecution, disColumbia University professor Rashid Kha- parate treatment and lawsuits all have been used to silence their voices, she claimed. lidi.

Khalidi began by noting that in recent Such tactics cause “suspicion and unease” years “there has been a significant uptick among students, she said.

SJP groups frequently have difficulty rein Palestinian rights activism in this country.” This movement has been fueled by serving space for events on campus, Khathe actions of unions, religious groups and lidi noted, and occasionally are asked to pay for added security. Other examples of campus organizations, he said.

The burgeoning Palestinian movement unequal treatment include SJP groups rehas presented a dilemma for supporters of ceiving hefty punishments for violations Israel, Khalidi continued, as it forces them of campus policy, while pro-Israel groups to defend the indefensible. “Who wants to such as Hillel receive a slap on the wrist for self-identify as an advocate of oppres- similar violations. She considers these tacsion?” he asked. Instead of accepting the tics discouraging, but not destructive. “A legitimacy of the Palestinian rights move- lot of these efforts are failing,” Khalidi said, ment, Khalidi said, pro-Israel groups have because people refuse to back down.

Yaman Salahi, an attorney who advoresorted to disinformation and outrageous cates on behalf of the Asian-American claims of anti-Semitism.

Civil rights attorney Andrew Dalack dis- community, noted that pro-Palestine stucussed the legal case of Rasmieh Odeh, a dent groups have been the target of Title Palestinian American found guilty by a De- VI complaints. Title VI prohibits discrimitroit jury in November of not disclosing on nation based on race, color or national oriimmigration papers that she had been im- gin by institutions that receive federal prisoned by Israel in 1969 for her alleged funds. Most of these complaints have role in the bombing of a supermarket. Odeh failed, he pointed out.

In 2013, Salahi noted, the U.S. Departexplained that she thought the question on the immigration papers referred only to ment of Education threw out legal comconvictions in the U.S. Her sentencing is plaints filed by Zionists at UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz and UC Irvine claiming that the scheduled to take place on March 10.

Jurors were never informed that Odeh colleges permitted pro-Palestine groups to confessed to the crime after being tortured engage in anti-Semitic and hostile activities. These “hostile” activities, he noted, included setting up mock checkpoints on campus.

Prof.

Steven Salaita, whose job offer at the University of Illinois was revoked earlier this year after pro-Israel (L-r) Andrew Dalack, Dima Khalidi and Yaman Salahi discuss at- groups raised objections to pro-Palestine tempts to suppress pro-Palestine voices.

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ject, held a congressional briefing in Washington, DC on Nov. 24 to bring attention to the dire situation in Wadi Foquin and its neighboring villages. For more information, visit <www.friendsofwadifoquin. com>.

—Elaine Pasquini

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comments he made on Twitter, concluded the panel. Israel’s supporters, he noted, often complain that boycott movements zealously single out Israel but refuse to scrutinize other countries. Salaita finds this complaint ironic, as the pro-Israel community often portrays Israel as being exceptional. Nothing makes Zionists become more compassionate for Tibet, he quipped, than Israel’s human rights record being questioned.

—Dale Sprusansky

HCEF Conference: “Together in Faith” More than 350 people attended the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation (HCEF)’s 16th International Conference and banquet in Washington, DC on Oct. 17 and 18. Titled “Together in Faith for the Common Good,” the conference highlighted the increasingly tough conditions facing Palestinian Christians.

HCEF President/CEO Sir Rateb Rabie, KCHS, welcomed banquet guests on Oct. 17. “We [Arab] Christians have been ignored by Western Christians for years,” he stated. “We need to share our story, as there is a misperception that only Muslims and Jews inhabit the Holy Land. Moreover, we have a responsibility to protect the Christians and others in the Middle East.”

In introducing the evening’s prestigious awardees, Sir Rabie noted that making positive changes in the world does not require political experience. A sense of mission, a commitment to people, and a belief in peace and justice are what is needed and what is shared by the awardees, Rabie said.

Dr. Hanan Ashrawi, a member of the Executive Committee of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, was presented with the 2014 Path of Peace Award. Dr. Ashrawi expressed her hope that the path of peace is not endless. Peacemaking, she said, “is not for the faint-hearted,” as it forces people to rise above knee-jerk reactions. “It takes a lot of courage to say no to violence,” she pointed out. “Extremism and violence have no room in our lives,” Ashrawi went on to state, “and we must stand up against them.”

The Faith and Tolerance Award went to Archbishop Theodosios Atallah Hanna, Archbishop of Sebastia, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The archbishop emphasized that Palestinian Christians and Muslims belong to one national community and share a common culture, experience and fate. “We are one nation, one people defending our rights, our liberties and our independence,” he stressed.

Salim Hodali received the Corporate SoJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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versity, argued that while the cial Responsibility Award on behalf Catholic Church hierarchy has influof Hashim Hani Shawa, chairman of ence over matters of international the board and general manager of peace and war, the role of laity is the Bank of Palestine. Hodali deequally important, if not more so. scribed a number of ways the Bank Fr. Christiansen also raised the of Palestine is proactive in commutouchy issue of resettling Christians nity programs, including giving 5 facing persecution in such places as percent of its annual profit to proIraq and Syria, arguing that resettlegrams such as HCEF’s Know Thy ment is necessary to save innocent Heritage Leadership program. lives. Many in the audience exFarouk Shami, inventor and pressed their fears that such an apfounder of Farouk Systems, accepted proach would bring an end to the the Palestinian Diaspora Award. He 2,000 year-old history of Christianity called for human beings to be treated in the Middle East. equally before God and the law, and Dr. Yvonne Haddad, professor of emphasized how peace requires the Christian-Muslim Relations at creation of jobs.

Georgetown University, questioned if The HCEF Award went to Rev. any safe place can be created for MidRichard H. Graham, Bishop of the dle East Christians. The likes of KurMetropolitan Washington, DC distan, Lebanon and Jordan are not Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran viable long-term homes for displaced Church in America. He spoke of the Christians, she argued, stating that need for true, peace-inducing faith she believes not much can be done to to be restored to the Holy Land, and save Christianity in the Middle East. described religion as “the heart of “It’s very bleak,” she said. “I don’t the heartless world.” think there is any future.”

The President’s Award was given Mark L. Wasef, Esq., a Coptic to volunteer Frank Carroll.

In his benediction, Cardinal TOP: Dr. Hanan Ashrawi; ABOVE: HCEF President/ American practicing attorney with Sedgwick LLP, noted that Americans Theodore McCarrick, Archbishop CEO Sir Rateb Rabie. have little to no understanding about Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Washington, DC, urged everyone not to he said. What Palestinians stand against is Copts and their plight, or even the fact that lose hope. “It will change, it will happen, the Israeli occupation, the archbishop em- Christians live in Egypt. Hence, he said, a there will be peace,” he said, and com- phasized. What they stand for, however, is grassroots campaign to raise awareness mended HCEF for always “talk[ing] to peo- “nonviolence, human dignity and free- across the U.S. is needed.

The third panel, “Engaging the Palestinple’s hearts.” dom.” He concluded by urging his American audience to offer their support for ian Diaspora in Nation-Building,” was A Day of Panels Palestinians, saying, “Please help us so that moderated by Sir Rabie, who posed a key The next day, attendees gathered for a full we can preserve our churches...so that question: How can Palestinians use their experience and skills to support their they don’t become museums.” day of panels.

Fr. Michael McDonagh, international ad- homeland?

Introducing the conference theme, SalBank of Palestine’s Salim Hodali shared iba Sarsar of Monmouth University, secre- viser to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, tary of the HCEF board of directors, and asked those in attendance to “banish” from some vital numbers: 95 percent of PalesChristine Hill, vice president of the HCEF their minds the idea that Israel is a democ- tinians are literate; 25 percent are unemboard of directors and president/founder racy. Noting that “discrimination is un- ployed; 75 percent are under 25 years old; of Service Alliances International, Inc., bounded in the ‘great democracy’ of the and there are 7 million Palestinians in the emphasized the importance of shared val- Middle East,” he defined the self-described Diaspora—with more than 400,000 living ues. “As people of different faiths,” they Jewish state as “an ethnocracy where a po- in Chile and contributing 10 percent of emphasized, “we follow common values of litical regime facilitates expansion and con- that country’s Gross Domestic Product peace, human dignity and rights, compas- trol by a dominant ethnicity in contested (GDP). “What if we could tap into 1 percent of 1 percent of the net worth of Palession, freedom, and prosperity for all, espe- lands.”

Given the state of human rights under tinians in the Diaspora so as to develop cially as these relate to the Holy Land.”

The first panel, “Challenges Facing the the Israeli occupation, Fr. McDonagh said Palestine?” he asked.

“The Promised Land is for all the AbraPalestinian Christians,” was moderated by it is justified to be angry. However, he Fr. Jaceck Orzechowski, chair of the Fran- warned, “Don’t ever go into hatred, that is hamic people,” stated Farouk Shami, declaring that “there is enough room for all ciscans’ JPIC (Justice, Peace and Integrity poison.”

The second panel, “Arab and Middle of us to live in peace and harmony.” He of Creation) of Holy Name Province, and featured Archbishop Theodosios, who de- Eastern Christians under Fire,” was moder- called for an independent Palestinian econscribed how Christians of the Holy Land ated by Dr. Hanna Hanania, a member of omy, since a viable independent state canare toiling under tough conditions. The Is- HCEF’s board of directors. Fr. Drew Chris- not develop without it. He urged Palestinraeli occupation is creating havoc in the tiansen, professor of ethics and global ian business people in the Diaspora to daily lives of Christians and Muslims alike, human development at Georgetown Uni- open 10 percent of their businesses in JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Noura Erakat described what Palestinians are experiencing in Jerusalem, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Israel.

There is a uniform Israeli policy to disempower Palestinians, she said, regardless of geography. Calling peace negotiations flawed, Erakat said Palestinian leaders need to use all the tools at their disposal to bring about a real change in policy.

(L-r) Salim Hodali, Farouk Shami and Rafiq Masri disDr. Najat Arafat Khelil, prescuss what Diaspora Palestinians can do to help their ident of the Arab Women’s homeland.

Council, noted that women have been active in Palestinian Palestine. For Shami it is obvious: “It is our civil society since the early 1920s.

“Through the national struggle they have responsibility to help our people.”

Rafiq Masri, technology entrepreneur worked hand in hand for their own liberaand founder of Network Management, tion,” she stated, describing them as the Inc., observed that Palestine is still operat- keepers and protectors of Palestinian hering on an old 2G network, with much of itage. Khelil suggested ways women’s the equipment for 4G still being held up at voices can be heard, including enhancing Israel’s seaport. He voiced the need to ex- gender equality, educating women about pand and upgrade Palestine’s infrastruc- their rights, promoting the economic empowerment of women, and advancing the ture. “It is the future,” he emphasized.

Dr. Ashrawi delivered a rousing keynote national plan against violence toward address. Israel stands in the way of Pales- women.

The last panel, “Giving Palestinian-Istinian national unity, she stated, with its daily systematic attempts at aggression, raeli Peace a Chance,” addressed how past carried out “quietly and deliberately.” approaches to peace have been ineffective.

About 15,000 Jerusalem ID cards have Moderator Ray Hanania, president/CEO of been revoked, she said, and the city is los- Urban Strategies Group, explained that ing its Christian and Muslim residents be- American activists can’t change Israeli or cause they cannot prove Jerusalem is the Palestinian policies but, together, we can “center of life”—a high burden not placed change U.S. politics. We can make a real difference by speaking to Americans in on Jerusalem’s Jewish residents.

“The Apartheid Wall is stealing the hori- their own language. “It’s not what we say zon,” she lamented, and Area C is being but how we say it,” he stated. “If we win evacuated of Palestinians “not for security, the audience we win the argument.”

According to Samer Makhlouf, execubut for great economic profit.” Land, culture and cuisine are being taken from tive director of OneVoice Palestine, Israel is making reality on the ground irreversible, Palestinians, she added.

Referring to the flawed peace process, to the point that Palestinians can no longer she argued that it is insane to keep doing believe in the peace process. It’s time to inthe same thing over and over again. With- ternationalize the process on the one hand out accountability for Israel and protection and bring about Palestinian unity and recfor Palestine, there can be no peace, she onciliation on the other, he argued.

Khaled Elgindy, a fellow at the Brooksaid. Palestinian leadership is set on submitting a proposal to the U.N. Security ings Institution’s Saban Center for Middle Council, with the goal of ending the occu- East Policy, pointed out that failure is prepation and actualizing the State of Pales- programmed into the so-called peace process. The U.S., the primary steward of tine in November 2016.

The fourth panel, “Empowering Women Palestinian-Israeli negotiations, has been in Palestinian Society,” was moderated by wedded to the process rather than the outClaudette Habesch, a member of the HCEF come, he said, and has squandered several advisory board and former secretary-gen- chances for peace. Israel is in no hurry to eral of CARITAS Jerusalem. A strong ad- act, he added, as the status quo is comfortvocate for women, Habesch emphasized able and there have been no costs for any that Palestinian dignity “is not for sale and of Israel’s violations. Elgindy didn’t let Palestinians off the hook either, noting that will never be for sale.”

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and the Palestinian Authority have serious legitimacy issues.

Seth Morrison, who serves on the Congressional Outreach Committee of Jewish Voice for Peace, added that the peace process is dysfunctional because the Israel lobby is pushing the U.S. government to adopt poor policies. To combat this, he recommended that HCEF and other groups get organized and reach out to members of Congress to change the narrative and push the U.S. toward supporting Palestinian rights and peace.

—Saliba Sarsar and Christine Hill

Palestine: The Legitimacy of Hope Legal scholar Richard Falk discussed his new book, Palestine: The Legitimacy of Hope, (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More), at the Palestine Center in Washington, DC on Oct. 23. After teaching international law at Princeton University for 40 years, Falk recently completed his six-year term as U.N. Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Occupied Palestine.

His book is built on a series of essays originally published on Falk’s personal blog between 2010 and early 2014. Falk described the transformation of the Palestinians’ struggle over recent years into a struggle for legitimacy, similar to that pursued by all the anti-colonial movements of the 20th century. Falk also focused on the key role that international law, institutions and global solidarity movements have played in this struggle.

“If I were a strict realist, the title of my book would be The Legitimacy of Despair: From the Perspective of the Palestinian Struggle,” Falk began. That realistic perspective acknowledges “the continuous encroachment on Palestinian rights by way of the settlement expansion, the ethnic cleansing of Jerusalem, the general drift of Israeli internal opinion,” and the election of Israel’s president, Reuven Rivlin, who advocates a Jewish state that encompasses the entirety of historic Palestine.

According to Falk, the Palestinian national struggle has gone through four phases: In the first phase, Arab neighbors tried to prevent the establishment of the state of Israel, which they perceived as a European colonial solution to the so-called Jewish problem. This led to wars in 1948, 1956, 1967 and 1973, all of which ended in failure.

In the next phase, Palestinian leadership embraced a national liberation struggle. In 1988 the PLO accepted the legitimacy of Israel as a state in the region, as well as the JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

tions and will of the Palestinian people better than any government, whether Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

Falk concluded by suggesting two essential moves for Israel to make to achieve a sustainable and just peace. One is to release Marwan Barghouti from prison. “He is not Nelson Mandela,” Falk acknowledged, but he could unify Palestinians and his release would be an important symbolic gesture. The other “would be to accept the original conception of the Zionist project, which was to establish a Jewish homeland, not a Jewish state.”

—Delinda C. Hanley

and the resulting refugee and humanitarian crisis as “an aggravating factor” that has long destabilized the entire region. U.S. support for Israel has stymied efforts to avoid or prevent other, larger conflicts in the region, and helps recruit ISIS fighters.

Halper also pointed out that official Washington’s subservience to Israel’s policies has dangerously isolated the United States. “When you have repeated votes in the United Nations where everybody in the world votes against Israel, the United States, and Micronesia, that’s cause for concern,” said Halper.

Prof. Richard Falk describes four phases of The Minnesota-born anthropologist, authe Palestinian anti-colonial movement. thor, lecturer and political activist, who ICAHD Founder Jeff Halper Speaks in immigrated to Israel in 1973, told his audience that it’s not just a matter of the plight 1967 borders as the basis for a Palestinian Des Moines state, but even that didn’t solve their prob- Israeli Committee Against House Demoli- of the long-suffering Palestinians. “Not lems. Palestinians took ownership of their tions (ICAHD) founder Jeff Halper spoke at only on matters of the Middle East, on own struggle for self-determination, rely- Drake University in Des Moines on Nov. 2 matters of human rights, on issues of arms ing on armed resistance. They were char- during his most recent U.S. speaking tour. control, cluster bombs, whatever Israel acterized as terrorists, Falk said, although “House demolitions have nothing to do doesn’t want passed through the United in his opinion “Israeli state terrorism far with terrorism. There is an occupation, Nations, there is what the American govexceeded Palestinian terrorism.” Israel cast and the occupation is pro-active,” he told ernment calls an automatic veto. It’s an authe PLO as a terrorist organization, Falk a receptive audience in Olmstead Center’s tomatic American [Security Council] veto on any resolution that Israel doesn’t want added, so it “was able to command for it- Parents Hall. self the high moral ground in the struggle “Security has nothing to do with house passed,” said Halper.

“So, for a lot of reasons, this is a conflict and portray itself as the victim rather than demolitions. These are simple, ordinary the victimizer. people who are trying to get a home. that really affects everyone,” he stated.

Pointing to a map, Halper, who estabThe third phase has two parts, Falk con- These are not terrorists. So, house demolitinued. The intifada of 1987 began a shift tions are a very powerful way of re-fram- lished ICAHD as a human rights and peace from a governmentally organized move- ing the conflict,” said Halper, revealing the organization in 1997 to end Israel’s illegal ment to a civil society-generated resistance falsehood at the center of the Israeli gov- occupation over the Palestinians, said Israel and liberation undertaking. This was par- ernment’s hasbara (propaganda) narrative has established “a matrix of control over alleled by the move toward a diplomatic about its illegal occupation and long cam- the Palestinians that, on the ground, preapproach to resolving the conflict—the so- paign of theft of Palestinian land and re- vents any establishment of a Palestinian state and, in fact, incorporates the West called Oslo approach in 1993. sources.

Falk lamented the famous handshake on “John Kerry said last week [at an Oct. 16 Bank into Israel.”

He described Gaza as “a cage,” and exthe White House lawn, agreeing with Ed- White House Eid al-Adha ceremony] that ward Said that it was tantamount to a we are not going to be able to stabilize any- pressed the opinion that the two-state so“Palestinian surrender.” Palestinian leaders thing in the Middle East without resolving lution is a dead issue. Under Israel’s prefailed to assert their rights to national self- the Israel-Palestine conflict,” declared sent illegal occupation regime, “there is no determination and agreed to a very flawed Halper, who went on to describe Israel’s place for a Palestinian state,” said Halper.

This reporter asked Halper, “So, why do framework where the ally of the stronger six-decade illegal occupation of Palestine you do what you do?” side has the mediating role.

“Because I think it’s like South “But what was most flawed in the Africa,” Halper replied. “Peace is not Oslo approach was the exclusion of going to come from inside [Israel]. international law from the diplomatic What I’m doing is coming to Des process,” Falk declared, adding that Moines. I’m not speaking in Tel Aviv. when it comes to the status of We have to create pressure from the refugees, Jerusalem, water, borders outside, mobilize the grass roots. It’s or settlements, law is “the one area happening with the BDS campaign. where the Palestinians hold a clear, Churches are beginning to speak out. systematic advantage.”

There is beginning to be, even in the The fourth and, to Falk, decisive United States, a movement.” phase of this conflict is the civil sociThe Iowa Peacebuilding Program ety momentum that started with the of the American Friends Service two intifadas and has grown to a Committee’s Des Moines office sponglobal solidarity movement that centers on the BDS campaign. This ICAHD founder Jeff Halper speaks in Des Moines on sored Halper’s presentation.

—Michael Gillespie phase expresses the political aspira- Nov. 2.

STAFF PHOTO M. GILLESPIE

PHOTO COURTESY PALESTINE CENTER

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Northfield Holds Palestine Teach-In Prodigious amounts of learning took place on Nov. 8, when more than 130 people attended a 7-hour “Palestine Teach-In,” held in the small Minnesota college town of Northfield.

Jeff Halper, founder of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD), and Daoud Nassar, a Christian Palestinian who founded the West Bank’s “Tent of Nations,” were keynote speakers.

Israeli military forces have destroyed parts of the orchard at the innovative farm near Bethlehem operated by the Nassar family. Despite his having centuries-old deeds to his 100-acre farm, Daoud Nassar says that Israel is constantly threatening to demolish the buildings and take over his land.

Tent of Nations teaches international visitors how to work on the land, but also acquaints them with the Israel/Palestine conflict. Nassar encouraged his audience to visit the West Bank and then report back to fellow Americans. “Come and see,“ Nassar said. “Then go and tell.”

Halper, an American-born Jewish Israeli who favors a one-state solution in which all citizens have equal legal rights, said this new nation should have the same name as that of the historic region. “But it should be spelled P-a-l-e-s-t-e-i-n,” he joked.

In addition to the convocation speeches

by Nassar and Halper, there were five morning workshops, and five different workshops in the afternoon. These classes, led by Minnesota scholars and activists, addressed questions such as: 1. What is a Jew, a Muslim, an Arab, a Zionist, an Israeli, a Christian, a terrorist, a Palestinian, a Nakba, a hasbara?

2. Why would anyone boycott Israel?

3. Where are green lawns and swimming

pools?

4. Does The New York Times have its own dog in this race?

5. Why can’t those Gaza people get over it, just as Native Americans have?

Final words of the day came from 90year-old Ruth Hansen of Northfield, who has visited Palestine 21 times: “Talk to your neighbors, write to members of Congress, and educate yourself,” she urged.

She specifically recommended the book Mornings in Jenin, by Susan Abulhawa (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More).

The event was organized by Northfielders for Justice in Palestine/Israel (NJP).

They can be reached at <info@njpmn.org> —Bill McGrath

Palestinian Farmers Win Food Sovereignty Prize

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STAFF PHOTO M. GILLESPIE

PHOTO COURTESY ALLISON SCHMITT

At an Oct. 15 ceremony at the Iowa Historical Building, the U.S. Food Sovereignty Alliance awarded the group’s 2014 Food Sovereignty Prize to the Union of Agricultural Work Committees (UAWC) of Palestine.

“Poverty without controlling your food means true suffering, both poverty and hunger. If you can control at least your food, you can survive. For us food sovereignty is a tool of struggle against the occupation,” explained UAWC board chairman Ali Abd El Rahman, who was visiting the U.S. from Jerusalem for the first time.

El Rahman told a packed auditorium that the UAWC, founded in 1986, is dedicated to assisting Palestinian farmers in the West Bank and Gaza in the fight for sovereignty over their trade and their land.

“The Israeli occupation controls every small detail of Palestinian life, the water, the electricity, the food, the movement, anything you can imagine,” El Rahman said.

UAWC works mostly with small-scale farmers, he added, and believes in food sovereignty for Palestine.

“For us agriculture is not only how much share we have in the gross national product; it is not just the thousands working in agricultural sectors; it is not only income,” he Karen Schraufnagel (speaking) and Ilana Rossoff teach a work- explained. “For us shop on Zionism during the all-day Teach-In on Nov. 8 in North- agriculture is a style of field, MN. life, our heritage, our

connection of people to their land.”

The group offers farmers access to education, training on best practices and techniques, and support and solidarity in the face of daily challenges to their livelihood.

“The most important factor is to be connected to community,” he stated. “At the UAWC we insist on having our institutional development in parallel with the strengthening of our connection to our community.”

Palestine’s primary crop is olives. Figs, cheese and grapes also are important.

UAWC works to improve the quality of olive oil by providing instruction to Palestinian farmers on how to pick the fruit, press it and store it in the face of a water shortage—Palestinians have control over just 20 percent of their water supply—and frequent sabotage by Israeli settlers, El Rahman told his audience.

Israeli settlers living illegally in the West Bank bulldoze Palestinian olive groves, cut trees down during the night, and sometimes burn them before farmers can harvest the olives.

“These are 500- or 1,000-year-old trees.

It’s part of human heritage,” said El Rahman.

Eight years ago UAWC created a seed bank that collects, stores and preserves disease-resistant and weather-hardy local seeds for use by Palestinian farmers.

“The project is improving and developing every year,” El Rahman said.

El Rahman said he believes “it’s possible” for the United States to take a leadership role in food sovereignty issues. “I believe the U.S. is not its government,” he elaborated. “It’s people, NGOs, businessmen, churches, charitable societies––not only wars. Yes, I do believe that we can change the world,” he concluded.

Ali Abd El Rahman accepts the Food Sovereignty Prize in Des Moines on Oct. 15.

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UAWC shared the 2014 Food Sovereignty Prize with Community to Community Development (C2C) USA. —Michael Gillespie

Ben White Discusses Discrimination Against Palestinian Citizens of Israel

their spouses, he said: The court argued, in part, that “human rights shouldn’t be a recipe for national suicide.”

Going forward, White believes the rights of Palestinian citizens of Israel will become a larger issue. He sees this as a natural result of Netanyahu making the recognition of Israel as a Jewish state a focal point of recent “peace talks.” In doing so, White believes the prime minister has, perhaps in a self-destructive manner, raised the issue of discrimination within Israel.

White concluded by describing Palestinian citizens as “Israel’s Achilles heel when it comes to its Western propaganda campaign.” While some in the West believe the recent Gaza war was necessary to defeat terrorism, he said, fewer believe the country’s systematic discrimination against its Arab population is acceptable or necessary.

—Dale Sprusansky

STAFF PHOTO PHIL PASQUINI

STAFF PHOTO D. SPRUSANSKY

British author and activist Ben White appeared at Busboys & Poets’ 5th & K location in Washington, DC on Nov. 9 to explain the struggles facing Palestinian citizens of Israel. His talk was organized by Amnesty International.

White, author of Palestinians in Israel: Segregation, Discrimination and Democracy (available from AET’s Middle East Books and More), began by noting that 20 percent of Israeli citizens are Arab. These Arab Israelis, he argued, are treated as second-class citizens by the Jewish majority. Ben White cites examples of discrimination Explaining that incidents of anti-Arab against Palestinian citizens of Israel. discrimination are bountiful and instituWhite cited as his final example the fact Children of Gaza Remembered In tionalized within Israel, White provided that Israel prevents West Bank and Gazan Day of the Dead Observance several specific examples.

In 2007, he noted, the Shin Bet (the Is- Palestinians from living with their spouses San Rafael, California’s annual Day of the rael Security Agency) announced its inten- in Israel. While Israel claims this restric- Dead community observance was held tion to disrupt the activities of groups that tion exists for security reasons, White Nov. 2 in Pickleweed Park Community question the Jewish or democratic charac- doubted this reasoning. Noting that Israel Center. The free event included art activiter of Israel, even if their activities are thoroughly vets Palestinians for work per- ties and storytelling, as well as Mexican peaceful and lawful. More recently, in No- mits, he questioned why the same couldn’t and Central American music and dance vember, White pointed out, Prime Minis- be done to reunify families. performances. Memorial altars, which The answer, White said, is that Israel honor deceased loved ones and victims of ter Binyamin Netanyahu requested that the Interior Ministry “revoke the citizenship cares more about demographics—preserv- historic and current tragedies, were the of those who call for the destruction of the ing its Jewish majority—than security. centerpiece of the popular event.

State of Israel.” Such a remark, White rea- Laws restricting the entry of Arabs into IsThis year, two groups—14 Friends of soned, is likely intended to intimidate un- rael are thus a result of what White calls Is- Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace—crerael’s “demographic obsession.” This can ated a heart-wrenching memorial altar in happy Palestinian citizens of Israel.

White also pointed out that Israel allows be clearly seen in the 2012 Israeli Supreme honor of the 501 or more Palestinian chiladmission committees to prevent an indi- Court ruling that upheld the law prevent- dren killed during Israel’s brutal 51-day vidual from moving into a community on ing Palestinians from living in Israel with summer military assault on Gaza. The one the basis of their social suitability.

Israeli child killed by a mortar This facilitates the existence of hunstrike allegedly from Gaza also was dreds of Jewish-only communities remembered. throughout the country.

Photos of some of the murdered Israel is also targeting Bedouin children, along with their names tribes in the Negev desert by refusand information about their short ing to recognize their villages, lives, adorned panels on the wall. A White added. The irony is that single panel was entirely devoted to many of these unrecognized villisting the names of the dead Paleslages—which don’t receive electrictinian children. ity or water—were created after IsA soccer ball positioned on the rael drove Bedouins out of their traaltar atop a traditional black-andditional lands in the 1950s in order white checkered keffiyeh displayed to “Judaize” the Negev. the names of cousins Mohammed, While Israel refuses to recognize 11, Ahed, 10, Zakaria, 10, and Ismany Bedouin villages, White mail, 9, Bakr, who were murdered noted that the country does recogby the Israeli military July 16 while nize small Jewish communities in they were playing soccer on a Gaza the Negev. Even single-family beach. homes receive water, electricity and An altar created by 14 Friends of Palestine and Jewish “People spent a long time at our roads from the state, he pointed Voice for Peace on display at a California Day of the Dead altar,” Jane Jewell, co-founder of 14 observance honors the children killed in Gaza this summer. Friends, told the Washington Reout.

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The Palestinian Refugee Conundrum

Author and analyst Michael Fischbach insisted that the refugee question must be robustly discussed in any future talks between Israel and Palestine. The right of return, he said, is “not simply one of the issues that must be dealt with in the socalled final status talks, but indeed is really the essential issue that has to be dealt with.”

According to Fischbach, the recent war in Gaza revealed the centrality of the refugee issue. He described the war as “essentially a war between Israel and Palestinian refugees. Not just a war between Israel and Hamas. And the reason is that Hamas emerged from the refugee experience, and that Gaza itself...is in fact an area crammed full of refugees who during that savage war were trapped and had nowhere to go. The Gaza war and Gaza itself, then, are intertwined deeply with the Palestinian refugee problem, and they have been since 1948.”

To further emphasize his point, Fischbach noted that 65 percent of Gazans are refugees and that a plurality (40 percent) of all refugees in the world are Palestinians.

The refugee issue has been largely ignored because it necessitates revisiting 1948 and the Nakba, something Israel seeks to avoid. “No matter how one looks at it,” Fischbach said, “the world community and Israel in particular eventually are going to have to grapple with the events of 1948, the long Palestinian Diaspora since then, and find a way of resolving them with the participation of and to the satisfaction of the Palestinian refugees themselves.”

Welcoming refugees back to pre-1948 Palestine, however, would “endanger Jews’ ability to retain their ethno-religious domination in a state that is based on the idea of Jewishness,” he noted. Thus, Israel would be forced to choose either democracy or ethnocracy. Fischbach believes the

self-professed Jewish state would choose— and does choose—the latter. “I myself know of no other state on Earth, not Serbia or Cyprus or anywhere else, where one could freely admit so clearly and publicly of the desire to keep other people from other ethnicities and religions out in order to maintain the ethno-religious purity of the state,” he reflected.

Human rights aside, Fischbach believes that resolving the refugee question is simply pragmatic politically. “For a peace deal to work, both Israel and the Palestinians are going to have to sell a peace deal to their respective sides,” he noted. “And if the refugees themselves do not feel at least a modicum of satisfaction about any proposed solution that deals with their question, they are going to reject it.”

Matthew Reynolds, director of UNRWA’s North America Representative Office, said that 2014 has been a challenging year for his organization. “With the exception of the Arab-Israeli wars of 1948, 1967 and 1973,” he said, “UNRWA and the Palestine refugees have not faced the present level of crises across all five fields of operation [Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Gaza and the West Bank] until now. It is simply overwhelming.”

While it’s essential for Gaza to be rebuilt, Reynolds stressed that a permanent agreement that brings stability and peace to the besieged territory is essential. “For there to be any real future for the Palestinians in Gaza, it must be made into a livable place again,” he said. “This means, as the U.N. secretary-general has recently emphasized, once and for all addressing the underlying causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and an end to the nearly half-century of occupation and the full lifting of the illegal blockade of Gaza.”

Final resolution is needed not only for Gaza, but for the entire Palestinian refugee population, he argued. “There can be no peace with almost five million refugees living in tentative existence and the Palestine refugee issue unresolved,” he said.

“While UNRWA will continue to provide needed humanitarian services, we remain only a temporary crutch and not a viable permanent solution.”

—Dale Sprusansky

The Palestine Center’s annual conference on Nov. 14 in Washington, DC began with a discussion of “Palestinian Refugees: Waiting to Return.” Panelists noted the challenges facing Palestinian refugees in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank.

Georgetown University professor Rochelle Davis described the devastating impact the Syrian civil war has had on that country’s Palestinian refugees. Prior to 2011, Syria’s Palestinian population was “relatively well-off,” she noted. “Palestinians in Syria had a lot of the rights of Syrian citizens. They could go to schools, they could go to universities, they could work in government jobs, they could own a limited amount of property,” Davis explained, “but they could not vote like Syrians.”

Palestinians attempted to keep their refugee camps neutral spaces when the civil war began, but the communities eventually became areas of confrontation between rebel groups and the forces of President Bashar al-Assad, Davis noted.

This, she said, resulted in many refugees fleeing to neighboring countries.

Having been driven out of their homes in Syria, many young Palestinian refugees report being able to better understand the plight of their elders who fled Palestine during the Nakba, Davis pointed out.

“Many of them sort of started to express themselves in ways where they said, ‘I really now understand what my grandparents went through when they had to leave in 1948 or when they were kicked out of their homes in 1948.’ And they started to understand in a different way that longing for a place that they know and the people that were around them….I think they keep seeing this as a generation thing and also as a defining thing for what it means to be Palestinian.”

While a solution to Syria’s civil war is desperately needed, Davis believes the plight of the refugees can only be resolved by allowing their return to the historic Palestine of 1948. “Return to Palestine is a more feasible option,” she argued, “and something that has been ig- (L-r) Matthew Reynolds, Michael Fischbach and Rochelle Davis nored by so many people for so believe a permanent solution is needed to the Palestinian refugee question. long.”

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port. “I was expecting most people to give it just a cursory glance, but I was wrong.

I’m glad we put so much detail about each child on the display boards; the details were read.”

—Elaine Pasquini

BDS: Activism and Strategy for Change The second panel, titled “BDS: Activism and Strategy for Change,” featured an update on the global movement to boycott, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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the cover of The New York Times. [Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin] Netanyahu had to concede that this was a big victory for BDS,” Farah said. “That’s how big it is.

Now there’s a huge movement to isolate the Presbyterians. The pro-Israel groups have been doing everything to discredit the Presbyterian vote.”

Senior scholar at the Institute for Policy Studies Bill Fletcher concluded by pointing out four lessons learned from the successful South African freedom movement that could be applied to the BDS movement. First, he said, it’s important to have links with movements on the ground, as this provides immense credibility. Second, he stressed strategic targeting— knowing which companies or groups or individuals to go after in order to make as big an impact as possible.

Third, Fletcher emphasized the importance of giving a Nelson Mandela-like face to the Palestinian movement. “I think that this is one of the reasons the global campaign to free Marwan Barghouti is very important and is underemphasized,” he said. “We really need that campaign not simply to free him, but in order to put a certain face to the Palestinian movement in everyday discussion.”

Finally, Fletcher stressed the necessity of building a broad movement that transcends any organization or affiliation, so that all supporters of Palestine can have a place for common action and activity.

Fletcher concluded with a warning: “In the aftermath of the success of the South Africa movement [and others like it], something very bizarre happened. The linkages that existed between the organizations that were leading those freedom struggles and those of us on the ground who were supporting them were shattered.”

When success comes, Fletcher cautioned, Palestinians must be wary of this and fight to prevent it from occurring.

—Jhostyn Duval

U.S. Mediation in the Future of Palestine The third panel of the Palestine Center’s annual conference on Nov. 14 examined U.S. mediation in the Palestine-Israel conflict. Khaled Elgindy, a fellow at the Brookings Institution’s Saban Center for Middle East Policy, framed the issue by noting the “fundamental paradox in the U.S. role in the peace process. The U.S. is generally recognized as the only actor that can bring the parties together to bring about a deal, and it’s also the only party which won’t do what is actually needed to get us there...

For various reasons the U.S. can’t take certain steps to make it happen,” Elgindy observed.

“There is an “increasingly hostile environment on Capitol Hill to almost anything Palestinian,” Elgindy added, “and less tolerance for Palestinian perspectives” and growing “indifference to the two-state solution.”

The Obama administration hasn’t lived up to the world’s high hopes, Elgindy continued. During the Gaza war there was enormous reluctance in this administration to speak out on the overwhelming civilian casualties. Even President George W. Bush famously told Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, “enough is enough” when Israel invaded the West Bank in 2002. That incursion was nothing like the recent attacks in Gaza.

Today there is no peace or process and nothing to take its place, Elgindy stated.

Elgindy admitted he doesn’t have a solution, but he knows something must be inserted into the vacuum. Instead of an American-monopolized peace process, Elgindy recommended more regional or international efforts to hold both parties legally accountable for their actions. In addition, he said, the U.S. should not stand in the way of the pursuit of initiatives at the Security Council or International Criminal Court.

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divest and sanction Israel for its treatment of Palestinians.

Ramah Kudaimi, membership and outreach coordinator at the U.S. Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation, noted several successes of the BDS movement, citing SodaStream and Veolia as two major wins for consumer boycotts. SodaStream, which manufactures home soda devices, has seen its stock plummet and was forced to shut down its factory in the West Bank this year, she noted. Meanwhile, Veolia, a French multinational company that was running bus lines for West Bank settlers, lost $24 billion worldwide and stopped enabling settlers due to pressure from the BDS campaign.

“BDS is becoming mainstream,” Kudaimi said, noting that influential financiers such as Bill Gates and George Soros have chosen to divest from companies linked to Israeli occupation. “When you have people like Bill Gates divesting $184 million from G4S, which runs prisons where Palestinian prisoners are held many times without any charge [and are] many times tortured, this is mainstream. I don’t know how more mainstream you can get than Bill Gates, George Soros,” she commented.

Meanwhile, Kudaimi noted, student groups across the country have passed divestment resolutions, and are building coalitions with other communities that have experienced oppression.

The BDS movement, which began in 2005 in response to a call made by Palestinian civil society groups, is important because it is proactive rather than reactive, Kudaimi said. Furthermore, she emphasized that the movement focuses on human rights, not politics. “BDS does not talk about one state, two states, no states, whatever we think is going to happen,” she noted. It talks about the need to end the occupation, the need for equality for Palestinians who are citizens of the state of Israel, and the right of return for the millions of Palestinians who are still refugees.

Philip Farah of the Palestinian Christian Alliance for Peace discussed the role of religious organizations in BDS. “Churches and spiritual communities have played an important role in human rights struggles and independence movements,” he said, citing the abolition of slavery, the civil rights movement, and the public outcries against the war in Vietnam as examples.

In 2005, religious organizations sympathetic to the BDS movement began taking (sometimes controversial) steps to support it, he noted. “The Presbyterians passed a vote in 2012, and on the next day it was on

Ian Lustick (l) and Khaled Elgindy explain why the U.S. can’t do the right thing in Israel/Palestine.

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University of Pennsylvania professor Ian Lustick had predicted the failure of Secretary of State John Kerry’s peace-making efforts in a September 2013 New York Times opinion piece, “Two-State Illusion.” He ventured another “easy prediction” that peace talks are going to start again, and explained why participants are caught in this “hamster wheel.” The Palestinian Authority doesn’t want to lose nearly $500,000 in U.S. aid, he said, so it will participate. Israel pretends to endorse the two-state solution in hopes that the Israel-Palestine problem will just go away. Washington would love to have a solution, two viable states, and to stop having AIPAC on its back constantly, so everyone will jump back on the wheel.

When it comes to this issue, Lustick pointed out, American interests aren’t driving American foreign policy. Like U.S. policy toward Cuba, a single-issue domestic political lobby is driving our policy— not national interests. Domestic pressure stops this country from doing the right thing, Lustick concluded. As a result, he said, in every U.S. administration “there is a lot of posturing, but no heavy lifting.”

In Lustick’s opinion, with the passing of time and demographic changes the onestate outcome is inevitable. During the discussion period, Lustick pointed out that many immigrants from the Soviet Union and guest workers aren’t Jewish, and that secular, well-educated Israeli Jews are moving to Germany and other countries in the European Union, and suggested that Israel won’t actually be a Jewish state.

—Delinda C. Hanley

Jerusalem: A Core Issue The final panel, moderated by Omar Fayez, a litigation attorney in Chicago, examined the current crisis in Jerusalem, which Fayez called a potential fire that can get out of control. Speakers addressed the closure of the Temple Mount and the withdrawal of Jordan’s ambassador to Israel, and described a city that could not be more divided.

Illinois State University’s Issam Nassar described the city’s vibrant multi-cultural and multi-ethnic history. Jerusalem was once a center of learning and culture, he said, but in 1948 Jerusalemites lost not only their properties but what had made their city so special. Nearly 30,000 Christians and Muslims fled to Jordanian-controlled areas, and Jewish squatters took over their empty homes.

Tufts University lecturer Thomas Abowd picked up Jerusalem’s tale from 62

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Diana Buttu lists reasons for optimism. there, describing Israel as a colonizing power, with racism embuing Israeli law, governance and housing policies. Israel has used biblical and national myths to claim Jerusalem as its own magical place, Abowd charged. Israel claims Jerusalem as its eternal, unchanging capital at the same time as its government builds concrete walls to surround it and moves Jewish settlers in to perpetually change the character and appearance of the holy city.

Human rights lawyer Diana Buttu agreed that Israel is creating physical and demographic barriers and expanding settlements to remove Jerusalem from the negotiating table and make Israeli ownership a fait accompli.

Israel has conducted bureaucratic warfare on Palestine since the 1993 Oslo accords, Buttu insisted, and has an “erase and replace” policy for Palestinians. Since 1967, Israel has revoked the residency status of 15,000 Palestinian Jerusalemites, including 106 last year. It’s treating Palestinians as if they’re immigrants to their own land, she lamented.

“It’s easy to despair,” Buttu acknowledged in the closing minutes of the conference. “But there is room for optimism. A lot of things are coming to a head.” The world, and even the Palestinian Authority, have come to realize that the peace process has failed, Buttu said. Palestinians are no longer buying the myth of the two-state solution. They’re also not buying into the myth about Israel being a democracy.

Palestinians are talking about liberation and return. They’re resisting Israel’s efforts to divide up their community, she stated, and are coming together. There’s a huge amount of resistance and resilience.

They’re protesting home demolitions.

They’re smuggling out sperm from prison to get their wives pregnant. The Israeli left THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

is recognizing that the occupation no longer is sustainable. The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement has made huge strides in nine years, Buttu marvelled. BDS is pushing Israel’s isolation and exclusion—that’s why Israel is spending so much money in pushing back.

Dr. Subhi D. Ali , president of the Palestine Center’s board of directors, concluded the day, noting this was the biggest audience ever to attend their annual conference. He mentioned the October 2014 cover of the Washington Report, which shows an elderly Palestinian gentleman standing atop a destroyed car in a pummeled Gaza neighborhood, holding the Palestinian flag. “We will not disappear,” Dr. Ali promised—and the next generation will tear down the wall.

—Delinda C. Hanley

Episcopal Peace Fellowship Conference Focuses on Palestine, BDS To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship (EPF), the Episcopal Peace Fellowship/Palestine Israel Network sponsored a Nov. 8 conference at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour in San Gabriel, California entitled “The Stones Cry Out: Responding to the Occupation of Palestine.” While other events around the country also commemorated EPF’s anniversary, this was the only one focused on the Palestine Israel Network.

A pre-conference dinner held the previous evening at Wahib’s Middle East restaurant in Alhambra featured beautiful Arabic music provided by Dr. Sami Asmar, Grammy nominee Souhail Kaspar, and an excellent ensemble. The dinner program opened with remarks by Donna Hicks, coordinator of the Peace Initiatives Network of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina and convener of the EPF’s Palestine Israel Network, who spoke about the work of EPF/Palestine Israel Network nationally.

Peggy Connery, a recent pilgrim to the Holy Land, spoke with both passion and compassion about the great change in her spiritual life as a result of seeing the occupation first-hand. She recalled how distant the region seemed until she saw it for herself. Many attendees nodded in agreement as she spoke, having had the same experience themselves.

The next morning began with welcoming remarks by conference chair Rev. Gary Commins and EPF chair Rev. Will Wauters.

The internationally respected human rights lawyer and activist Dr. Jonathan Kuttab then delivered a riveting keynote address (which can be viewed at EPF JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

ment to peace with justice and an end to the occupation of Palestine. It can be reached at <epf.pin.la@gmail.com> or (714) 362-7676.

—Vicki Tamoush

Tunisia Makes Democratic Strides With Successful Elections A democracy—albeit a fragile one—appears to be blossoming in North Africa.

This was the view uniformly shared by a group of Tunisia experts who assembled (L-r) Miko Peled, Dr. Sherna Berger Gluck, Donna Hicks and Estee Chandler. for a Dec. 2 panel discussion at the National Press Club in Washington, DC at the Music with a social justice theme punc- invitation of the Center for the Study of National’s YouTube page). We are on the cusp of great change in Israel/Palestine, he tuated the day, courtesy of Jean and Jim Islam and Democracy (CSID).

Panelists discussed Tunisia’s two fall said, citing signs of progress. His words of Strathdee, whose career in faith-oriented hope and encouragement drew a standing singing and songwriting spans several elections: the Oct. 26 parliamentary elections and the Nov. 23 presidential poll. ovation from audience members, many of decades.

Closing the conference on a stimulating “The elections were by all measures a whom have been trying to move their own congregations to a more balanced position note, Shakeel Syed, executive director of success,” said Kais Darragi of the Tunisian the Islamic Shura Council of Southern Cal- Embassy, pointing out that international on Israel/Palestine.

The Rev. Sandra Olewine, pastor of First ifornia, encouraged audience members not observers have confirmed that the elections United Methodist church in Pasadena, re- to be afraid of the disdain of one’s own were free, fair and carried out in a relacalled the tense times when she lived in faith leaders, but to follow one’s heart and tively secure environment.

Nonetheless, Darragi cautioned, this is Palestine, where she served for 10 years as conscience in working for justice in Isthe United Methodist Church liaison to rael/Palestine. Drawing on Biblical refer- not the time to boast. “The path [to democJerusalem through the General Board of ences and the example set by Jesus, he racy and stability] is still complicated,” he challenged those present to be the voice of warned.

Global Ministries.

Some Tunisians worry that the victory A mid-morning Boycott, Divestment and those who are so often unheard.

This conference was groundbreaking for of the secular Nidaa Tounes party in the Sanctions (BDS) panel included Estee Chandler of Jewish Voice for Peace–Los several reasons. The Palestine Israel Net- parliamentary elections could help usher Angeles, who is also an actor and radio work does not have “chapters” per se, but in a return of the old authoritarian guard, host for KPFP’s “Middle East in Focus” certainly has a solid base of support across Darragi noted. While he believes this will program; Miko Peled, Israeli peace activist the U.S. The formation of a chapter in not occur, he did acknowledge that this is and author of The General’s Son (available Southern California is indicative of the “a legitimate concern shared by many from AET’s Middle East Books and More); level of commitment to justice held by Tunisians.”

Darragi also cited security and the econDr. Sherna Berger Gluck, author, BDS ac- these Episcopalians and their colleagues of tivist, and professor emeritus at Cal State other denominations and other faiths. The omy as (greater) concerns. Tunisia faces an University Long Beach; and Donna Hicks. hierarchy of the Episcopal Church itself, internal security threat as well as an exterThe panel addressed the importance of both in the United States and in Jerusalem, nal threat from neighboring Libya. The latBDS as a tool for worldwide resistance to has not supported BDS in any form or at ter threat could increase dramatically should Libya descend into further chaos, the occupation, and discussed ways to im- any level.

The planning committee is now working he said. plement BDS actions at the congregational on future activities in Southern California Economically, Darragi expressed fear level.

Conference attendees selected from and welcomes those who share its commit- that there will be an “expectation gap” between what voters desire and among eight workshops, including what the new government can re“Motivating the Episcopal Church alistically deliver. “There are (and your Parish),” “The Witness many painful [economic] reforms of Others: Presbyterian and that are needed,” he noted, adding Methodist Actions,” “Planning a that it will take years to fix Pilgrimage,” “Campus Activism: Tunisia’s troubled economy. The Connecting Town with Gown,” U.S. and the rest of the interna“Political Engagement for Effect” tional community must help and “What Next for Gaza?”

Tunisia as it solidifies its democWorkshop participants engaged racy, particularly on the economic in lively discussions and brainfront, Darragi emphasized. stormed on the next steps to take William Lawrence of George in churches and community orgaWashington University agreed. nizations. The focus of the day Noting that Tunisia is the ninth clearly was on implementing BDS strategies on an individual level as Radwan Masmoudi (l) and Marina Ottaway discuss the out- largest recipient of U.S. aid in the region, he argued that it should be well as on a larger scale. come of Tunisia’s parliamentary and presidential elections.

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at least the fourth largest recipient. It’s time for Washington to invest in success stories, Lawrence argued, instead of throwing money at problems in a reactionary manner.

CSID president Radwan Masmoudi said the decision by the Islamist Ennahda party to cede control of parliament to Nidaa Tounes is evidence that Islam and democracy are compatible. “Islamists and secularists can compromise and work together” without one side trying to eliminate or eradicate the other, he said.

Masmoudi hopes compromise will be a defining character of Tunisian politics going forward. As it forms its government, he would like Nidaa Tounes to invite Ennahda into its governing coalition. “That is the best thing that could happen for Tunisia at this time,” he said, arguing that the country’s two major parties must work together to ensure national unity and economic growth.

Marina Ottaway, a senior associate at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, pointed out that there are no likeminded parties that Nidaa Tounes can invite into its coalition.

Mathematically speaking, Nidaa Tounes could form a majority government with a coalition of smaller parties such as the farleft Popular Front, she noted. However, the Popular Front and Nidaa Tounes have fundamental differences when it comes to the economy, she said, and thus would be strange bedfellows.

On the other hand, Ottaway reminded the audience, Nidaa Tounes ran as the antiEnnahda party—warning that an Islamist victory would bring the country back into the dark ages—and thus would have to swallow its pride if it invited Ennahda into its coalition.

In Ottaway’s opinion, Nidaa Tounes thus has a choice between a “thin coalition of disparate groups or a coalition with Ennahda….there are very interesting tradeoffs.”

According to Jeffrey England, deputy regional director for MENA at the National Democratic Institute, whatever government emerges must respond to the needs of its citizens, and not engage in political showmanship. “It’s obvious people want tangible results,” he said, from clean streets to real economic stimulation.

Regarding the presidential election (a runoff between Beji Caid Essebsi of Nidaa Tounes and interim President Moncef Marzouki will take place on Dec. 28), it was a good sign that voters were not euphoric, England said. He sees this as a sign that many Tunisians have trust in the electoral process and view voting as part of their 64

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(L-r) Juan Cole, Paul Salem, Ambassador Robert Ford and Randa Slim. civic duty—attitudes typically expressed by voters in established democracies.

England added that he was encouraged by the tens of thousands of young Tunisians who showed up to work as poll workers and citizen observers on election day. While many young people decided not to cast ballots, they are indeed engaged in the political process, he explained.

Hal Ferguson, deputy regional director for MENA at the International Republican Institute, noted some complaints of improper campaigning for the presidential election were filed with the electoral commission.

While these complaints ought to be taken seriously, he said, there was likely very little intentional breaking of the law. Tunisia had adopted intense, and perhaps “unworkable,” campaign laws that may have inadvertently been violated, Ferguson said.

New York Times Magazine contributer Robert Worth concluded by saying he found it heartening that, during the two campaigns, candidates were trying to present themselves as moderates. “Everyone wants to be in the political center,” he noted. Ultimately, he said, this political maneuvering will have to result in successful policies. This is especially true for Nidaa Tounes, he said, which ran on an anti-Ennahda platform and never articulated any clear ideological or political program.

—Dale Sprusansky

Navigating the Storm: The Middle East in 2015 The Middle East Institute’s 68th annual conference, “Navigating the Storm,” held Nov. 20 at the Grand Hyatt in Washington DC, took a look ahead to the Middle East in 2015. The previous night’s banquet featured a keynote address by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), who serves on the Armed Services, Budget and Foreign Relations Committees.

MEI president Ambassador Wendy Chamberlin and senior vice president Kate Seelye honored Syrian-born Ayman Asfari from the Asfari Foundation and M. Shafik Gabr from the Shafik Gabr Foundation, which supports exchanges between the U.S. and Egypt.

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“A Middle East in Flux: Risks and Opportunities” MEI’s moderator Daniel Serwer asked panelists in the first session of the day to discuss the three most important factors that will determine the future of the Middle East. What factors will bring stability, inclusion and prosperity to the region?

University of Michigan professor Juan Cole said sustainable development will determine the future. He listed some of the reasons the region is in crisis, including climate change. A long-term drought contributed to the economic problems that are causing unrest in Syria and Iraq. The Middle East will be the region most affected by climate change, Cole warned. There will be increasing aridity, water shortages and disputes over damming at headwaters. The rise of the sea level will be devastating.

The second challenge Cole cited is the enormous youth bulge and lack of jobs due to low international investment rates.

The third major issue is that the Gulf economy is based on hydrocarbons, and soon solar and wind energy will be much cheaper. The region needs to make something of high quality at a price the world market wants to pay, Cole concluded.

Paul Salem, MEI vice president for policy and research, predicted that Sana’a, Yemen will be the first capital to run out of water. Climate change will provoke power shifts that will cause a rough ride unless institutional structures can maintain sustainability, he predicted. Governments in Libya, Syria, Iraq and Yemen will cease to exist unless they make an institutional leap to local growth, such as Turkey and China have done. Egypt and Morocco could attempt to take that leap, Salem suggested, “but client-based cronyism won’t get us there.” The region must build up civil society, including labor unions and social institutions. Salem urged Arabs to think long-term about what kind of governments they want—democracy, constitutional monarchy or a republic?—and then make it happen.

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she stated. “That doesn’t mean taking foolthe Middle East is grappling with. Arabs on Syrian government forces.

Adel Al Toraifi, manager of Al Arabiya’s ish risks,” she added, but it does mean are demanding dignity. They must develop a sustainable economy, and also figure out TV news network, suggested training and being adaptable, strategic and open to the role of religion in society and govern- equipment for national guards and other some degree of risk.

Washington must also be willing to take ment. Young people have higher expecta- establishment forces. Support for militias is tions than the previous generations, Ford the perfect recipe for civil war, he warned. policy risks, former U.S. Ambassador to —Delinda C. Hanley Turkey Robert Pearson emphasized. “It said. They want to clean up corruption, means trying to be as creative as possible for greater accountability, and an end to police the American people to protect our interabuse. Businesses want the rule of law, ar- How Effective Is U.S. Diplomacy in ests,” he said. Former U.S. Ambassador to Isbitration methods and honest, open trans- the Middle East? rael and Egypt Daniel Kurtzer parency or they won’t invest in said individual diplomats must the region. also take this approach and be Randa Slim, director of MEI’s willing to smartly, factually and Track II Dialogues Initiative, said respectfully submit their dissent she has observed three trends as when they have disagreements Middle Eastern states negotiate with official policy. their social contracts. They’ve The State Department also endured violence, like Syria, or needs to develop a long-term vinonviolence as citizens put up sion, Jones argued, saying that with the status quo in return for diplomats are spending too economic stability. Another much time reacting to events trend to watch is the information and too little time promoting an revolution, as more people gain American vision for the future. access to the Internet. “We need “What I see right now in the deto engage for the battle of partment is exhaustion,” she minds,” Slim warned, because said. “It’s exhaustion with chasthe “crazies” and non-state actors also use the Internet.

(L-r) Ambassadors Daniel Kurtzer, Deborah Jones and Robert ing the immediate instead of the long-term.”

Another trend to watch is Pearson critique current U.S. diplomatic practices.

This is particularly true when Iran, Slim added. Will its large very educated population coping with an The MEI conference luncheon featured a it comes to the American response to ISIS, economy hollowed out by sanctions be- panel titled “Effective Mideast Diplomacy Jones maintained. “We react to ISIS instead of declaring a vision the way we did come dissatisfied with their government? in Changing Times.”

—Delinda C. Hanley U.S. Ambassador to Libya Deborah during the Cold War. The way to confront Jones began by discussing America’s ten- the Soviet Union was not to cower in fear “Containing the Islamic State” dency to remove diplomats from turbulent from the missiles, it was to articulate a viBBC’s Kim Ghattas asked the next panel areas, a reality that she said frustrates For- sion about who we are and what we do, how President Barack Obama can contain eign Service officers. “We don’t deploy the and to sell that vision to the world and say, or destroy ISIS. Will there have to be “U.S. military without risk when we deem their isn’t this the world that you want to be boots on the ground” to finish what was jobs necessary,” she said, “so I don’t un- part of?....If we can’t articulate that vision derstand why we can’t deploy diplomats and make space within that to do our job, started in Iraq? she asked.

Princeton University professor Hossein without assuming that there needs to be then we have a problem, then we’re going to be reactive, and then we’re worthless.”

Mousavian urged America to stop disaster- zero risk.”

In an age of social media and new techFortress embassies, such as the one ous military attacks on Muslim countries.

“The U.S. isn’t the right country to lead being constructed in London with a moat, nologies, Ambassador Kurtzer fears the strikes,” said the former Iranian ambas- do little to advance U.S. interests, Jones ar- State Department is downplaying the imsador to Germany. The battle against Mus- gued. “What we discovered in Libya was portance of person-to-person communicalim extremists should be led by Islamic that working out of a fortress, working tion. “The idea that you can somehow subforces, Mousavian said, including regional under siege mentality, surrounded by stitute the old-fashioned business of actupowers like Iran and Saudi Arabia, who heavily armed Marines was not the answer, ally engaging with people I think is one of because in the end other elements drove us the terrible mistakes that we may be makshould be working together.

Cengiz Çandar, senior columnist for the out,” she said. U.S. embassy staff were ing,” he cautioned.

The diplomats also advised that more reTurkish daily Radikal, said that if Obama forced to flee Libya for Tunisia in July simis willing to provide airstrikes, but doesn’t ply because their embassy was located in a sources be devoted to diplomacy. “Diplomats need resources, they need the money want American boots on the ground, there contested area of Tripoli, she explained.

Washington needs to decide how it for training, they need the money for are indigenous people, like the Kurds, who wants to deploy diplomats to countries staffing,” Pearson explained. This, Kurtzer can overcome ISIS. Dr. Abdelaziz Sager of the Gulf Research that are unstable or have multiple groups lamented, is currently lacking. In particuCenter agreed, and called for more interna- claiming or battling for legitimacy, Jones lar, he warned, diplomats are not receiving tional support and proper training and stressed. America needs diplomats on the proper training, especially when it comes equipment for local moderate forces. He ground in places where no foreign govern- to language skills.

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ington University spoke about the Tunisian experience.

“Tunisia has succeeded against all odds,” he noted, adding that “the whole thing almost derailed.” He attributed the country’s success to its leaders’ ability to make tough compromises.

Nonetheless, William Lawrence (l) and Charles Schmitz discuss the triumphs and Lawrence warned, trials of the so-called Arab Spring.

Tunisia is in the more seriously, Kurtzer argued that career midst of a difficult economic period and Foreign Service officers, not political “it’s not clear when it’s going to turn the donors, should receive top diplomatic corner.” The country is also facing a secuposts. “We need to do a better job of sell- rity crisis, he noted, as it leaders must cope ing ourselves,” Jones added, describing with both internal threats and the risks asdiplomats as individuals who do mainte- sociated with an increasingly unstable senance—a task that she said is not always curity situation in neighboring Libya.

Former Egyptian parliament member sexy, but is vital for the nation’s security.

—Dale Sprusansky Amr El Shobaki analyzed political developments in Egypt. The Arab world’s most Travails of Transition in Egypt, populous nation has a major problem, he Tunisia, Libya and Yemen said: clear “rules,” or laws, were never esMEI’s third panel of the conference fea- tablished to guide the country’s transition. tured a discussion on political develop- “We have to establish the rules of the game ments in Yemen, Tunisia, Egypt and Libya. before entering a political competition,” he MEI fellow Charles Schmitz began by stated. “That’s what happens everywhere discussing the transition in Yemen, noting else! In Egypt, we started the political comthat the relationship between the state and petition, the struggle for power, without tribes has changed in recent years. While any rules for the game.” Egypt thus set ittribes have traditionally interacted with in- self up for a dysfunctional and turbulent fluential individuals, they now negotiate transition period, he opined.

Fred Wehrey, a senior associate at the with political parties. “So you’ll find local tribes that are being patronized, not by a Carnegie Endowment for International particular person, but by a party,” noted Peace, concluded by discussing Libya’s Schmitz, who considers this an important tenuous transition. “I’m always asked, ‘Is and underappreciated aspect of Yemen’s Libya a failing state?’” he noted. “I say that there was never a state to fail to begin transitional period.

Regarding the September Houthi with, because this is a country that was takeover of the capital, Sana’a, Schmitz marred by a real institutional vacuum— downplayed the significance of foreign in- absolutely no political institutions, no forterference. While many see the Shi’i mal security sector. It was always hollow Houthis as Iranian implants, he noted that under Qaddafi and it evaporated after the the Houthis have deep roots in Yemeni so- revolution.” The source of tension today, ciety. Iran likely has some relationship he said, is between the revolutionary camp with the group, he acknowledged, but and the old cadre, both of which are in a added that “the Houthis can do quite well contest for power.

Wehrey went on to note that the rise of without them.”

Saudi Arabia, which “doesn’t really con- Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s military government sider Yemen to be a foreign country,” is in Egypt has presented a narrative that displeased with the Houthi seizure of echoes for many Libyans. Looking at the Sana’a, Schmitz said. This explains why chaotic situation in their own country, he Riyadh suspended most of its aid to Yemen explained, many Libyans express nostalgia in early December. For its part, the U.S. is for an authoritarian system that would reengaging the Houthis, Schmitz said, a de- store order. This, he said, explains why there is a base of support for individuals cision he believes is strategically sound.

Dr. William Lawrence of George Wash- such as former Libyan general Khalifa Haf66

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

tar, who has launched an anti-Islamist military campaign.

So what lies in Libya’s future? Wehrey believes that a U.N.-sponsored dialogue is the best hope for a way out of the current chaos.

—Jhostyn Duval and Dale Sprusansky

Is it Time for the U.S. to Relinquish Control of the Peace Process?

To conclude its Nov. 20 conference, MEI held a stimulating discussion on the current state of Palestine-Israel relations and the U.S. role in the so-called peace process.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Egypt and Israel Daniel Kurtzer began by citing the recent violence in Jerusalem as evidence that the status quo in any conflict never remains static, but only gets worse. Without reason for hope, he warned, extremists will control the narrative and tragedies will become a recurring event.

One recurring event Kurtzer hopes will be avoided in the coming months is the resumption of the flawed U.S.-led peace process. Any peace effort “is almost guaranteed to fail” and “makes no sense under current circumstances,” he argued.

Instead of attempting to forge peace, Kurtzer suggested the U.S. pause to reassess its role in the negotiations. “This may be a time in which we forgo process and think about fixing our own policy,” he said, arguing that Washington needs to better articulate what it stands for on the core issues.

As part of its recalculation, Kurtzer believes the U.S. should decide to “actually exact consequences for the behaviors that we criticize verbally.” This, for example, means punishing Israel for its continued construction of settlements in the West Bank and clamping down on corruption within the Palestinian Authority. U.S. credibility, he believes, has “tanked…because we are talking too much and not doing anything.”

Shlomo Ben-Ami, Israel’s former minister of internal security and foreign affairs, advised the U.S., given its paralysis and inability to move negotiations forward, to abandon its role as the sole mediator of peace. “If you do not change your ways,” he said, “relinquish, drop your monopoly.”

Ben-Ami compared the U.S.-led peace effort to a tractor stuck in the mud. “By pushing for more gas it only sinks deeper,” he explained. “You need to take the tractor, move it to another track, and start the engine once again.”

The “new track,” in Ben-Ami’s opinion, should be an international mediating team JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

STAFF PHOTO D. SPRUSANSKY

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(L-r) Ambassador Daniel Kurtzer, Khalil Shikaki and Shlomo Ben-Ami discuss the recent violence in Jerusalem and question the U.S. role in the peace process.

Jerusalem, he added, where “there’s a history of separate and unequal treatment” of Palestinians.

Arab inhabitants of the city face discriminatory housing and tax policies, he noted. Israel not only has dramatically increased the rate at which it revokes the citizenship of Jerusalemites, but has clamped down on individual and institutional expressions of Palestinian nationalism.

“There’s been a concerted effort by Israeli central government authorities and municipal authorities to ban, prohibit almost any display or manifestation of Palestinian social, cultural, or political identity…in Jerusalem,” he noted.

This explains why Palestinians are so attached to the al-Aqsa Mosque, which has been the source of recent Jewish and Palestinian violence in Jerusalem. “In many ways, all that is left for Jerusalemites is alAqsa,” Elgindy explained, adding, “people cling to these primordial forms of identity.”

—Dale Sprusansky

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

organized by the United Nations. “We too politically dangerous, he risks becomshould internationalize the solution,” he ing completely irrelevant should a third inargued, opining that doing so would tifada break out, Shikaki said. Thus, he said, Abbas is in a tenuous position. “move the process somewhere.”

Khaled Elgindy of the Brookings InstituTurning to Israeli politics, Ben-Ami said that the country’s political system is disin- tion’s Saban Center for Middle East Policy clined toward peace, as there is growing argued there is little the Obama adminisdistrust of the peace process. Prime Minis- tration can do to strengthen Abbas given ter Binyamin Netanyahu’s approach to ne- the current climate in Washington. For ingotiations further dampens the likelihood stance, Elgindy believes that the U.S. norof peace, Ben-Ami argued. He described malizing Hamas and encouraging a Palesthe prime minister as more of a politician tinian unity government would legitimize than a statesman, and thus more interested Abbas by making him more than “the Diplomatic Doings in preserving his premiership than secur- president of Area A.” Such a tactic, however, would cause a political crisis between ing a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Going forward, Ben-Ami believes Ne- the White House and Congress and trigger Framing and Charting the Region’s tanyahu will maintain his right-wing- economic sanctions against Palestine. Thus, Challenges and Opportunities pleasing rhetoric while attempting to Elgindy noted, the administration is virtu- A few pages cannot do justice to the informaintain control over the security situa- ally prevented from making such an astute mation-packed panel discussions that took tion. “You are not going to see any bold diplomatic shift. place during two full days of the National While an increasing number of people Council on U.S.-Arab Relations’ 23rd Annual moves. He is not a man of bold moves,” Ben-Ami said. “This doesn’t promise much believe the two-state solution is dead, El- Arab-U.S. Policymakers Conference, held gindy said there is not overwhelming evi- Oct. 28 and 29 at the Ronald Reagan Buildfor the peace process.”

With regard to Palestinian politics, dence this is the case. But, he added, ing and International Trade Center in WashKhalil Shikaki, director of the Ramallah- “we’re moving in that direction.” Nonethe- ington, DC. The annual event brings tobased Palestinian Center for Policy and less, he doesn’t see how both sides get to gether internationally renowned specialists Survey Research, said President Mahmoud the idyllic point where they decide they to analyze, discuss and debate issues of overAbbas “has lost significant legitimacy as a want to live together. arching importance to Americans and Arabs.

In the absence of a credible peace Due to space constraints, we are focusing on result of the Gaza war.” The war increased support for Hamas and decreased support process, Elgindy said a free-for-all has en- just a few diplomats’ talks. Complete tranfor the “peace process” among Palestini- sued and, because Israel is the vastly scripts and both audio and video recordings stronger party, it has used this lawlessness are accessible on the National Council’s webans, he noted.

Going to the U.N. may be Abbas’ only to its advantage. This is particularly true in site (<http://ncusar.org/auspc>). salvation, but it could also be his In Keynote Address, Chas downfall, Shikaki warned. If Freeman Calls for New Abbas is successful in his U.N. Strategy to Counter ISIS statehood bid, Shikaki explained, it would be to the delight of his Ambassador Chas Freeman cridomestic constituency but to the tiqued U.S. Middle East policy, chagrin of the U.S. and Israel. This particularly as it pertains to the could result in Washington and current anti-ISIS military camTel Aviv putting into place sancpaign. Recent U.S. Middle East tions that would undermine (or policy has been simply disastrous, even destroy) the Palestinian AuFreeman said, because Washingthority by rendering it unable to ton has dug into “solutions” pay salaries and provide other (mostly military) that don’t actuvital services, he said. ally work. “If at first we don’t sucIf, however, Abbas avoids the Chas Freeman (l), with Dr. John Duke Anthony, stresses a ceed, we do the same thing again U.N. gamble because he deems it non-U.S.-military approach in the region. harder, with better technology, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Diplomats From Qatar and Saudi Arabia Look for Unity

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

“Egypt is internally stressed and dependent on support from Gulf Arab partners whose main objectives are to carry out regime change in Damascus, push back Shi’i dominance in Iraq, and contain Iran,” Freeman stated. “The Egyptians themselves put the suppression of the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas ahead of dislodging Mr. Assad or defeating Da`ish. Turkey is more eager to remove Assad and roll back Kurdish factions associated with its longstanding domestic terrorism problem than it is to contain Da`ish. It does not want problems with Iran. Until the governments in Cairo and Ankara conclude that containing and defeating Da`ish deserves priority over other foreign policy objectives, neither will assume a leadership role in the struggle against it.”

Freeman concluded by once again stressing the futility of military-dependent approaches to the region’s issues: “We should have learned by now that military might, no matter how impressive, is not in itself transformative,” he said. “American military power has never been as dominant in the Middle East as in this century. Yet its application has repeatedly proved counterproductive and its influence limited. It shattered rather than reshaped Iraq. It has failed to bring the Taliban to heel in Afghanistan or Pakistan. It did not save Mubarak or the elected government that followed him from being overthrown by coups d’état. It does not intimidate either Bashar al-Assad or Da`ish. It has not shifted Iran’s nuclear policy. It does not obviate military actions by Israel against its neighbors. It has had no impact on the political kaleidoscope in Lebanon. It does not assure tranquility in Bahrain. It did not produce satisfying results in Libya. Its newest incarnation—drone warfare—has not decapitated anti-American terrorism so much as metastasized it.”

—Dale Sprusansky

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the U.S. Adel Al-Jubeir suggests the region can ride through the storm.

STAFF PHOTO D. HANLEY

and at greater expense,” he noted.

America’s newest enemy, ISIS (or Da`ish in Arabic), is yet another threat that cannot be defeated with Western military might, Freeman argued. (In fact, he noted that the U.S. military occupation of Iraq helped create ISIS.) “We have a military campaign plan but lack a political program,” he explained. “We are bombing Da`ish to contain it. There is little reason to believe this will prove effective. Based on past experience, there is no reason to believe it will evolve into a strategy.”

What is really needed, Freemen stressed, is “a Muslim-led politico-military response.”

He explained: “Da`ish is battling to energize the disaffected among the Islamic faithful against the West and to cleanse the Arab world of Western influences. It wants to erase the states that Western colonialism imposed after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. It regards them as illegitimate entities that could not survive without continuing support from the West….

“In this context, Western-led military intervention is not just an inadequate response to the threat from Da`ish,” he continued. “It is a preposterously counterproductive response….A U.S.-dominated bombing campaign with token allied participation cannot kill it. The United States is well supplied with F-15s, 16s and drones, but it lacks the religious credentials to refute Da`ish as a moral perversion of Islam.”

Thus, Freeman implored the region’s leaders to put aside their differences and form a united front against ISIS. “Da`ish will not be contained and defeated unless the nations and sects on its regional target list—Shi’i and Sunni alike—all do their part,” he said.

Unfortunately, this is unlikely to occur, Freeman believes. “We should not delude ourselves. The obstacles to this happening are formidable. Unity of command, discipline and morale are the keys to both military and political success. Da`ish has all three. Its opponents do not….Da`ish is a uniquely brutal force blessed with an enemy divided into antagonistic and adamantly uncooperative coalitions.”

Freeman outlined the obstacles to a unified regional response to ISIS: “The Sunni Arab states of the Gulf will not accept guidance from Iran, nor will Iran accept it from them. The alternatives are Egypt and Turkey. Both are partially estranged American allies. Their relations with each other are strained. But, any strategy that accepts the need for leadership from within the region must focus on them. They are the only plausible candidates for the role. But both are problematic….

Prince Turki Al Faisal predicted troubles.

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

The National Council presented its Distinguished Global Leadership Award to Qatar’s Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah, head of the Emir’s court, who told his audience, “The Arab world is divided—even the Arab League is polarized—and engaged in ‘mess management.’”

He urged the Middle East to solve its core problem—the Israeli/Palestinian issue—or these wars and disputes will never end. Israel wants a Jewish state, Da`ish (ISIS) wants an Islamic state. Everyone is fighting for their own religion because they believe their God is right, Ambassador Al Attiyah lamented. It’s time to look to the future and not fight about past grievances, because radical groups like alQaeda, Da’ish and whatever terrorist group is next will take advantage of unrest and try to stop progress in the region.

Prince Turki Al Faisal, chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and former Saudi Arabian ambassador to the UK and U.S., also gave a hard-hitting keynote address, much of it recalling his country’s early warnings about Da’ish that were ignored by U.S. policymakers. As a result, today “in Syria a society now sits on the brink of an abyss of nightmarish internecine warfare, which could spill into Lebanon, Turkey and Iraq,” he warned.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Jordan are joining the U.S. in striking terrorist targets, Prince Turki noted, but that’s not enough. In order to diffuse the many hot spots in the Middle East, it’s time to help marginalized and oppressed miJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Iraq’s Ambassador to the U.S. Calls For Unified Response to ISIS Lukman Faily, Iraq’s ambassador to the U.S., used his Oct. 29 keynote address at the NCUSAR conference to stress the significant threat ISIS, or Da’ish, poses to his country and the broader Middle East.

“Da’ish seeks to subjugate or exterminate everyone who will not swear allegiance to its warped interpretation of Islam,” the ambassador warned. “Wherever Da’ish raises its terrorist flag, minorities are murdered, non-believers are beheaded, women and girls are sold into slavJANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

Aside from regional cooperation, Iraq also needs assistance from Washington—but not necessarily ground troops. “Let me be clear, the Iraqi government does not need nor is asking for coalition combat boots on the ground,” he said. “But Iraq does need American knowhow, including intelligence sharing and expedited transfers of arms and equipment.”

Internally, Iraq is doing everything it can to promote unity among its divided population, Faily said. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi “has formed a new inclusive national unity government, incorporating all Iraqis —Sunnis, Shi’i, and Kurds and others,” he noted.

Abadi also has better equipped his government to fight ISIS, Faily said. “For the first time since 2010,” he pointed out, “there are ministers of interior and defense, and Prime Minister Abadi has taken decisive measures to restructure the security apparatus, replacing key officers and commanders.”

—Dale Sprusansky

Next Steps for Palestine STAFF PHOTOS D. HANLEY

norities. This coalition now bombing Da`ish is one way to combat extremism, he said, “but airstrikes are not enough. The ideology must be challenged. The finances must be interdicted. And the cynical supporters of governments that murder their people must be stopped.”

He went on to criticize Iran for interfering in Arab affairs. “Two things bind us to Iran,” Prince Turki stated, “geography and Islam. And it is a pity that the nearness of the geography and the sharing of this wonderful religion has not yet been capable of bringing Iran to extend the hand of friendship to the Arab world and, as Iran sees it, vice versa.”

In his keynote luncheon address Saudi Arabia’s current Ambassador to the U.S. Adel Al-Jubeir discussed the importance of the U.S. and Saudi Arabian partnership over the years.

The Kingdom sided with the U.S. against the Soviet Union threat in Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, Iraq and Afghanistan. In 1990 Saudi Arabia and the U.S. put together an international coalition of more than 30 countries to liberate Kuwait. In the fight against radicalism, he said, “We support each other, we reinforce each other.”

“Iran’s quest for nuclear weapons, its involvement in the affairs of the countries in the region is a source of grave danger to all of us,” Ambassador Al-Jubeir said, as are the instabilities in Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, Syria, Iraq and Libya.

“When the dust settles our region will be in a much better place than it was,” AlJubeir predicted. “We just have to ride through the storm and make sure that we maintain our focus and that we don’t let up when it comes to confronting either aggression or extremist ideology.”

—Delinda C. Hanley

TOP: Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah, head of Qatar’s Emir’s Court and former deputy prime minister (l), and Qatar’s Ambassador Mohammed Jaham Al-Kuwari; ABOVE: Iraqi Ambassador Lukman Faily. ery, and the ancient tradition of my region for hospitality to strangers is violated with vengeance,” he added.

“For my country, for our region, and for the entire world, our common challenge is to defeat these transnational terrorists,” the ambassador emphasized.

This, Faily said, requires a comprehensive military, political, economic, humanitarian and diplomatic response—one, he stressed, that must be executed in a unified manner by all governments of the region, Shi’i and Sunni alike.“The future of our nation, our region and our world are all at stake, and we must not exclude any stakeholder,” he said. “Are we all willing to take this threat seriously enough to change and move out of our zero-sum mentalities?”

THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Appearing on “The Palestinian Future” panel, Chief Representative of the PLO to the U.S. Ambassador Maen Areikat said he sees no future for U.S.-meditated bilateral talks between Palestine and Israel. Years of such talks have “only contributed to the consolidation of Israeli occupation,” he said. Thus, Areikat explained, Palestine will look to the U.N. for a solution and plans to join international organizations and conventions “to defend the rights of our people.”

Areikat believes Israel “does not have on its agenda any plans to end the conflict with the Palestinian people.” Instead, he said, the country’s leaders are “positioning themselves for the next elections [scheduled for March]. It’s all domestic politics in Israel. Members of the Israeli government, including the prime minister, are trying to outbid and upstage each other.”

For its part, Areikat believes “the U.S. can do more. Words and rhetoric are not sufficient. They can issue advisories to their own citizens who hold also Israeli citizenship not to invest in the occupied West Bank, and they can boycott Israeli settlement products. There is strong support for this within the American Jewish community, and among Israelis as well.

—Dale Sprusansky 69

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Books

In Our Power: U.S. Students Organize for Justice in Palestine

By Nora Barrows-Friedman, Just World Books, 2014, paperback, 272 pp. List: $21; MEB: $18.

Reviewed by Kevin A. Davis Much attention has been given recently to university-based Palestine activism, such as the ongoing support for BDS by students and faculty alike, popularized by the calls for university divestment from Israel. In Our Power, the latest book from independent publisher Just World Books, is a great exploration of these student movements on university campuses across the United States.

Nora Barrows-Friedman is an associate editor of the Electronic Intifada, a well-respected website focusing on Palestine. She traveled across the country visiting different universities and conducting interviews.

Her depth of knowledge is clear throughout, and her ability to capture a vast array of stories and experiences from student activists of a variety of backgrounds makes the book rich and comprehensive.

Barrows-Friedman begins her first chapter, “Inspired to Act,” with an investigation into why students became involved in

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Palestine activism in the first place— whether to reconnect with family history or because of a sense of obligation to global struggles. This is followed by two chapters on history—one of student activism and the other of a need to historicize the debate—and a discussion of tactics various groups employ.

Chapter 4, “The Campus as a Battleground,” is particularly strong, examining the barriers to resistance that Palestinian rights groups face when organizing action.

The author begins by looking at the case of the Irvine 11, tracing actions by powerful pro-Israel groups to co-opt students and quash dissent. As is common, many students and professors alike are labeled as “anti-Semites,” a tactic used to stifle debate and conversation on the Palestine issue.

The chapter also provides eye-opening insight into pro-Israel counter-dissent tactics, exposing how some organizations entice students with all-expense-paid trips to Israel and others even resort to illegal espionage efforts to gain information on Palestine activists. Such tactics are fueled by university systems’ failure to condemn them, especially the silence of the UC system.

Chapter 5 explores how the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) campaign has become a staple of student activism since 2005 when Palestinian civil society organizations called for the program. Student groups have targeted companies, local governments and, perhaps most effectively, university administrations to divest from enterprises supporting the occupation.

Most famously, many UC student bodies have passed divestment bills, creating tensions between campus administrations and leaders of the UC system. Such activities have forced the Israeli government to begin acknowledging the BDS campaign, condemning those who support it as “bigots.”

Barrows-Friedman also discusses connecting the Palestinian issue to other issues, both contemporary and historical, such as the African-American civil rights movement and the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.

She thus shows that this THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

is not an isolated event, but rather just one more example of historical injustices that have seen similar protest movements. Such historicization ties Palestine activism to a need to combat institutional racism wherever it is found.

In Chapter 7, “Intersecting Struggles and Common Causes,” Barrows-Friedman discusses coalition building, both between different Palestine activist groups and with other rights organizations. She follows with a chapter of “Advice to Student Activists,” featuring short recommendations by various student activists to those wishing to seriously engage in activism. Such a chapter is particularly useful to those seeking advice on how to get involved or perhaps start a new movement on their own university campus.

In Our Power concludes with a chapter titled, “Defining Solidarity.” BarrowsFriedman not only eloquently summarizes her main arguments but presents an inspiring collection of definitions from students she interviewed.

Perhaps one of the greatest assets of Barrows-Friedman’s book is that each chapter is accompanied by at least one full-length interview with a student activist, taking a step back from analysis and letting students speak about their work in their own words. This serves as an unfiltered outlet for students to express their experiences.

It may have been useful to include short interviews with members of student proIsrael groups, especially since many have publically (and proudly) admitted to the negative tactics Barrows-Friedman describes. I am sure that many pro-Israel activists would be happy to discuss openly how they attempt to disrupt and stifle campus debate. Such personal accounts could have given further credit to BarrowsFriedman’s accusations and helped to repel all-too-common accusations of bias.

In Our Power also features a forward by human rights lawyer and scholar Noura Erakat, which serves to enhance the book’s reputation and provide a strong introduction to the book.

In Our Power works both as interesting insight into the way student groups are addressing activism on Palestine and as a guide on what actions people can take and how they can better serve the Palestinian cause. Barrows-Friedman has done a masterful job of explicating the struggle of Palestine activists on American campuses, suggesting the power of protest activities. ❑ Kevin A. Davis is director of AET’s Middle East Books and More.

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Middle East Books and More Literature

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Music

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Film

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Pottery

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Winter 2015 The Yezidis: The History of a Community, Culture and Religion by Birgül Açikyildiz, I.B. Tauris, 2014, 283 pp. List: $28; MEB: $24. In light of the recent persecution of Iraq’s Yezidi community by ISIS and the powerful images of Yezidi refugees trapped on a mountaintop, Açikyildiz’s new work is a critical introduction to a small religious minority in the Middle East of which little has been written. The Yezidis is an excellent guide to the history, religion and culture of the Yezidi community in the Middle East, challenging ill-conceived stereotypes and prejudices against them.

A History of Libya by John Wright, Columbia University Press, 2012, 265 pp. List: $20; MEB: $18. Libya is a notoriously difficult country to get accurate, in-depth information about. John Wright’s A History of Libya works to reverse this trend by providing the most complete modern history of Libya written to date in English. This new revised edition addresses the 2011 uprising and its aftermath, shedding new light on Libya’s troubled post-revolutionary political situation. This book is critical for anyone interested in learning about Libyan history.

Chronicles of Majnun Layla and Selected Poems by Qassim Haddad, Syracuse University Press, 2014, 136 pp. List: $14.95; MEB: $12. Brilliantly translated by Ferial Ghazoul and John Verlenden, this outstanding collection presents more than 40 years of the celebrated Bahraini poet Qassim Haddad’s work. Majnun Layla takes an Arabian myth from the 7th century and reframes it as a series of poems expressing a man’s love for Layla, a woman of incredible beauty. The book was the recipient of the King Fahd Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies Translation of Arabic Literature Award for 2013.

Yemen Divided: The Story of a Failed State in South Arabia by Noel Brehony, I.B. Tauris, 2013, 257 pp. List: $29; MEB: $24. While Yemen itself is an understudied country, the history of South Yemen remains sparsely documented. Brehony’s new book covers the history of South Yemen from its independence in 1967 through the communist regime to Yemeni unification in 1990. His detailing of the intricacies of Southern politics does much to inform readers on the present difficulties in Yemen and the troubled history that has created such deep divisions. Yemen Divided is useful to scholars of Yemen and those with a more casual interest in the country and its history.

The Making of Jordan: Tribes, Colonialism and the Modern State by Yoav Alon, I.B. Tauris, 2009, 214 pp. List: $31; MEB: $24.

As part of the ongoing effort to explore the colonial roots of the modern Middle East, The Making of Jordan explores the historical dynamics of Jordan, a country long populated by various clans and tribes. With the onset of British colonialism and the installation of the Hashemite monarchy, a new foreign state apparatus had to come to terms with the diversity of Jordanian society and forge a cohesive nation.

Alon provides a readable analysis of the development of the Jordanian state and the colonial legacy.

A Peace to End All Peace: The Fall of the Ottoman Empire and the Creation of the Modern Middle East by David Fromkin, Holt Paperbacks, 2009, 643 pp. List: $23; MEB: $15. Though only a few years old, Fromkin’s book already is regarded as one of the most complete and fundamental guides to the history of the Middle East after the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Required reading for anyone interested in the region, the book documents the years between 1914 and 1922, when the very borders of the regions we now know as the Middle East were drawn. This book is absolutely key to understanding the roots of many local and regional conflicts.

On the Brink: Israel and Palestine on the Eve of the 2014 Gaza Invasion by Alice Rothchild, Just World Books, 2014, 167 pp. List: $18; MEB: $16. The director of the film “Voices Across the Divide” (also available from Middle East Books and More) has released a compelling collection of essays illuminating her visit to Israel and the West Bank in June 2014, just before Israel’s latest onslaught against Gaza.

Rothchild provides a critical examination of Israeli society and government policies toward the Palestinians, paying special focus to the kidnapping of three young settlers, which Israel used to justify its 2014 assault.

How I Stopped Being a Jew

by Shlomo Sand, Verso, 2014, 102 pp. List: $16.95; MEB: $14.

The provocative Israeli writer is at it again with his latest, more personal account of the contradictions in Israeli society, questioning the very basis of his Jewish identity in relation to the global Zionist project. Readers will be familiar with his earlier books, such as The Invention of the Land of Israel and The Invention of the Jewish People (both available from Middle East Books and More). His latest volume is not to be missed.

The New Arabs: How the Millennial Generation Is Changing the Middle East by Juan Cole, Simon & Schuster, 2014, 348 pp. List: $26; MEB: $20. The story of the 2011 uprisings that swept the Arab region cannot be told without due acknowledgement of the youth movements that helped inspire and organize the mass protests that ousted dictators in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and Yemen. Prominent Middle East analyst Juan Cole, author of Engaging the Muslim World (also available from Middle East Books and More), explores the role of youth movements and gives a hopeful account of how a new generation can change the history of an entire region.

Shipping Rates Most items are discounted and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Orders accepted by mail, phone (800-368-5788 ext. 2), or Web (www.middleeast books.com). All payments in U.S. funds. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express accepted. Please send mail orders to Middle East Books and More, 1902 18th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009, with checks and money orders made out to “AET.” U . S . S h i p p i n g R a t e s : Please add $5 for the first item and $2.50 for each additional item. Canada & Mexico shipping charges: Please add $15 for the first item and $3.50 for each additional item.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

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Upcoming Events, Announcements —Compiled by Kevin A. Davis & Obituaries Upcoming Events “Roads of Arabia,” an archeological exploration of Saudi Arabia’s history (see Jan./Feb. 2013 Washington Report, p. 42), is on view through Jan. 18 at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, CA. The exhibit takes visitors from prehistoric Arabia, through incense and pilgrimage trails, to the foundation of the modern Kingdom. For more information, visit <www.asianart.org>.

The town of Bocairent, Spain will host its annual Moors and Christians Fiesta from Feb. 2 to 5, celebrating its religious history. The event will feature parades and musical entertainment. For more information visit <www.spainisculture. com>.

The Commonwealth Club of California will host The Invisible People: Syrian Refugees at its San Francisco headquarters on Feb. 20. The talk will feature famed photojournalist Giles Duley, whose latest documentary explores the plight of Syrian refugees. Visit <www.commonwealthclub.org> for more information and tickets.

Announcements At a Nov. 15 ceremony, the Arab American National Museum (AANM) in Dearborn, MI dedicated its library to Russell J. Ebeid, a prominent Detroit-area businessman. Now called the Russell J. Ebeid Library & Resource Center, it is home to the largest collection of research materials on Arab Americans. Ebeid, a Lebanese American, is known for his philanthropic work and his involvement in the AANM and the Center for Arab American Philanthropy.

Obituaries Mary Eoloff, 82, a longtime peace activist, died of heart and lung problems on Oct. 11. She and her late husband, Nicholas, who died in May, were the adoptive parents of the Israeli nuclear whistleblower Mordechai Vanunu, who, after serving an 18-year prison sentence, is not allowed to leave Israel. Eoloff was known for founding a local chapter of Pax Christi, as a cofounder of the Peace Studies Task Force 72

and a member of Middle East Peace Now, and for helping Central American refugees in the Overground Railroad.

Ali Mazrui, 81, a prominent professor of African and Islamic Studies, died Oct. 12 of natural causes. Born in colonial Mombasa, Mazrui was educated in Kenya before earning his B.A. from Manchester University, his M.A. from Columbia University, and his Ph.D. from Oxford University. He taught at Makerere University in Uganda as well as at the University of Michigan and Binghamton University in New York. Known for his work in international politics and North-South relations, he was the author of more than 20 books and wrote and hosted the public television series “The Africans: A Triple Heritage,” which explored the continent’s indigenous, Islamic and Western influences.

Serena Shim, 30, a Lebanese-born American journalist, was killed Oct. 19 in a car crash near the Syrian border with Turkey. An experienced international journalist working for Tehran-based Press TV, she had been assigned to cover the siege of Kobane. Just days before her death, the Turkish government accused her of being a spy. The exact details of her death are disputed and unclear.

Reyhaneh Jabbari, 26, an Iranian political prisoner, was executed Oct. 25 after being convicted of murdering Morteza Sarbandi, a former intelligence officer.

The interior designer claimed she was sexually assaulted and killed Sarbandi in self-defense. Her case became highly publicized, and Amnesty International, the U.N. and the EU, describing the investigation as flawed, all called for amnesty.

Mansour Hobeika, 73, a Maronite Catholic bishop, died Oct. 28 in a Paris hospital. Born in Hadath, Lebanon, in September 2002 he became the bishop of Zahle and taught religious law at Sagesse University. He was known for criticizing the sale of Lebanese land to foreigners.

Abdelwahab Meddeb, 68, a Tunisianborn French intellectual, died Nov. 5 in Paris of lung cancer. He moved to Paris in 1967 to pursue his education at the Sorbonne University, and became a wellTHE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

BulletinBoard known writer, poet and scholar. He was a visiting professor at Yale and the University of Geneva before joining the faculty of comparative literature at the University of Paris X-Nanterre. He became a fierce critic of Islamic fundamentalism and was a voice for moderation, culminating in his 2002 book, The Malady of Islam.

Tomas Young, 34, an Iraq war veteran and anti-war activist, died Nov. 10 in Seattle from health complications resulting from injuries suffered in Iraq a decade ago. Born in Kansas City, MO, he decided to join the army after 9/11. Just five days into his tour, he was shot, becoming paralyzed. After returning home, he became active in anti-war protests and was one of the first Iraq veterans to come out against the war. The subject of the documentary “Body of War,” in 2013 he wrote a letter to former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney, published in Truthdig, accusing them of war crimes and lambasting the poor state of veteran’s services.

Saud bin Mohammed al-Thani, 48, a Qatari prince, died Nov. 9 at his home in London. Known for his art collecting, as his country’s minister of culture, arts, and heritage he oversaw the establishment of many art museums in Qatar, including the celebrated Museum of Islamic Art. He also founded the Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation and the Al-Thani Photography Awards. He was estimated to have spent $1.5 billion on art and artifacts from around the world.

Sabah, 87, a famous Lebanese singer and actress who was born Jeanette Gergis AlFeghali, died Nov. 26 of an unspecified illness in her Beirut home. She released her first single at the age of 13 and began acting shortly afterward, appearing in many classic Arab films. She acted in almost 100 films and recorded more than 50 albums in her long illustrious career. At its peak, she worked with the famous Egyptian composer Mohammed AbdulWahhab and was the first Arab singer to perform at such venues as the Olympia in Paris, Picadilly Theatre in London, Carnegie Hall in New York and the Sydney Opera House. q JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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AET’s 2014 Choir of Angels

Following are individuals, organizations, companies and foundations whose help between Jan. 1, 2014 and Nov. 20, 2014 is making possible activities of the tax-exempt AET Library Endowment (federal ID #52-1460362) and the American Educational Trust, publisher of the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs. We are deeply honored by their confidence and profoundly grateful for their generosity.

HUMMERS ($100 or more) Jeffrey M. Abood, Silver Lake, OH Rev. Fahed Abu-Akel, Atlanta, GA Alice & Rizek Abusharr, Claremont, TX James C. Ahlstrom, Stirling, NJ Aglaia Ahmed, Buda, TX Dr. M.Y. Ahmed, Waterville, OH Emeel & Elizabeth Ajluni, Farmington Hills, MI Robert Akras, N. Bay Village, FL Dr. & Mrs. Salah Al-Askari, Leonia, NJ Dr. Subhi Ali, Waverly, TN Nabil & Judy Amarah, Danbury, CT Mike & Pat Ameen, Kingwood, TX Edwin Amidon, Charlotte, VT Louise Anderson, Oakland, CA Sylvia Anderson de Freitas, Phoenix, AZ Anace & Polly Aossey, Cedar Rapids, IA Dr. Robert Ashmore, Jr., Mequon, WI Mr. & Mrs. Sultan Aslam, Plainsboro, NJ Dr. & Mrs. Roger Bagshaw, Big Sur, CA Nabil Bahu, Athens, Greece Mrs. Alma Ball, Venice, FL Jamil Barhoum, San Diego, CA Allen & Jerrie Bartlett, Philadelphia, PA Susan M. Bell, Alexandria, VA Peter Bentley, Sebastian, FL Syed & Rubia Bokhari, Bourbonnais, IL Paul and Carol Bradford, Somerville, MA Stephen Buck, Bethesda, MD Prof. Mireya Camurati, Williamsville, NY John Carley, Pointe-Claire, Quebec Lois Carrig, Erie, PA Blaine Chandler, Boise, ID Patricia Christensen, Poulsbo, WA Dr. Arthur Clark, Calgary, Canada Dr. Robert G. Collmer, Waco, TX Lois Critchfield, Williamsburg, VA Amb. John Gunther Dean, Paris, France John Dirlik, Pointe Claire, Quebec Ray Doherty, Houston, TX Tareck Elass, Washington, DC Kassem Elkhalil, Arlington, TX Gloria El-Khouri, Scottsdale, AZ Wajih Elkiswani, Niles, IL Barbara Erickson, Berkeley, CA M.R. Eucalyptus, Kansas City, MO Dr. Moneim Fadali, Los Angeles, CA Rich Hoban, Cleveland Heights, OH Dr. & Mrs. Hossam Fadel, Augusta, GA Albert E. Fairchild, Bethesda, MD Catherine Fararjeh, Santa Clara, CA Renee Farmer, New York, NY Mr. & Mrs. Majed Faruki, Albuquerque, NM Claire Bradley Feder, Atherton, CA Douglas A. Field, Kihei, HI Eileen Fleming, Clermont, FL JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

E. Patrick Flynn, Carmel, NY Robert Gabe, Valatie, NY Dorothy Gerner, Indianapolis, IN Michael Gillespie, Maxwell, IA George Glober, Dallas, TX Herbert Greider, Dauphin, PA Agi Groff, New York, NY Mark Habib, Chico, CA Iftekhar Hai, S. San Francisco, CA Dr. Safei Hamed, Columbia, MD Shirley Hannah, Argyle, NY James Hanson, Columbus, OH Katharina Harlow, Pacific Grove, CA Robert & Helen Harold, West Salem, WI Dr. Steven Harvey, Manchester, NH Mrs. Frances Hasenyager, Carmel, CA Mr. & Mrs. Sameer Hassan, Quaker Hill, CT Ibrahim Hayani, Unionville, Ont. Joan & Edward Hazbun, Media, PA Alan & Dot Heil, Alexandria, VA† James Hillen, North Vancouver, Canada A.H.M. Hilmy, Surrey, England Jerry Hlass, Long Beach, MS Veronica Hoke, Hillcrest Hts., MD Dr. Marwan Hujeij, Cincinnati, OH Mr. & Mrs. Azmi Ideis, Deltona, FL George Jabbour, Sterling Hts., MI Dr. Raymond Jallow, Los Angeles, CA Ronald Johnson, Pittsford, NY Anthony Jones, Jasper, Canada Mohamad Kamal, North York, Canada Mujid Kazimi, Newton, MA Louise & Bob Keeley, Washington, DC Gloria Keller, Santa Rosa, CA Edwin Kennedy, Bethesda, MD Dr. Mohayya Khilfeh, Chicago, IL Abdal Hakim Khirfan, Flint, MI Alfred & Dina Khoury, McLean, VA Eugene Khorey, West Mifflin, PA N. Khoury, Pasadena, CA Donald C. Kimmel, Bethesda, MD Gail Kirkpatrick, Philadelphia, PA Joseph Korey, Reading, PA Donald Kouri, Westmount, Canada Loretta Krause, Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ Ronald Kunde, Skokie, IL Ann Marie Labbate, Salt Point, NY William Lawand, Mount Royal, Canada Barbara Leclerq, Overland Park, KS Mary Lou Levin, Mill Valley, CA Josie Toth Linen, Richmond, VA Leslie Lomas, Boulder, CO George & Karen Longstreth, San Diego, CA Joseph Louis, Los Gatos, CA Jeanie Lucas, Thebarton, Australia J. Robert Lunney, Bronxville, NY Anthony Mabarak, Grosse Pointe Park, MI THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Robert L. Mabarak, Grosse Pointe Park, MI Allen J. MacDonald, Washington, DC Farah Mahmood, Forsyth, IL Tahera Mamdani, Fridley, MN Ted Marczak, Toms River, NJ Joseph A. Mark, Carmel, CA Linden Martineau, Ventnor City, NJ Carol Mazzia, Santa Rosa, CA Tom and Tess McAndrew, Oro Valley, AZ Shirl McArthur, Reston, VA Stanley McGinley, The Woodlands, TX Robert Michael, Sun Lakes, AZ Tom Mickelson, Madison, WI Lynn & Jean Miller, Amherst, MA Peter Miller, Portland, OR Dr. Yehia Mishriki, Emmaus, PA Colleen Mitchell, Fresno, CA Nabil Mohamad, Washington, DC Mr. & Mrs. Farah Munayyer, West Caldwell, NJ Ann Murphy, Tacoma, WA Mohamad Nabi, Union, KY William & Nancy Nadeau, San Diego, CA Joseph Najemy, Worcester, MA Jacob Nammar, San Antonio, TX Neal & Donna Newby, Las Cruces, NM Susan Nicholson, Gloucester, MA Tom O’Connell, Brooklyn, NY Rev. John O’Neill, Petaluma, CA Khaled Othman, Riverside, CA Edmond & Lorraine Parker, Chicago, IL John Parry, Chapel Hill, NC Vicki Perkins, Calgary, Canada Dr. Bashar Pharoan, Timonium, MD Jim Plourd, Monterey, CA Phillip Portlock, Washington, DC Barry Preisler, Albany, CA Clarence Prince, Austin, TX Syed R. Quadri, Elizabethtown, KY Bassam Rammaha, Corona, CA Nayla Rathle, Belmont, MA Vivian & Doris Regidor, Pearl City, HI Mr. & Mrs. Edward Reilly, Rocky Point, NY Paul Richards, Salem, OR Evan Robinson, Arlington, VA Ms. Brynhild Rowberg, Northfield, MN Arthur Rowse, Chevy Chase, MD Ambassador William Rugh, Garrett Park, MD Hameed Saba, Diamond Bar, CA Grace Said, Chevy Chase, MD Ramzy Salem, Monterey Park, CA Betty Sams, Washington, DC Dr. Dirgham H. Sbait, Portland, OR Russell Scardaci, Cairo, NY * Robert M. Schaible, Maine Voices for Palestinian Rights, Buxton, ME 73

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Joan Seelye, Bethesda, MD Mona Serageldin, Cambridge, MA Dr. Abid Shah, Sarasota, FL William A. Shaheen III, Grosse Ile, MI Richard J. Shaker, Annapolis, MD George Shalabi, Sauk City, WI Qaiser & Tanseem Shamim, Somerset, NJ Theodore Shannon, Middleton, WI Lewis Shapiro, White Plains, NY Kathy Sheridan, Mill Valley, CA Yousuf Siddiqui, Bloomfield, MI Lucy Skivens-Smith, Dinwiddie, VA William Slavick, Portland, ME Edgar W. Snell, Jr., Schenectady, NY Jean Snyder, Greenbelt, MD Peter & Joyce Starks, Greensboro, NC Gregory Stefanatos, Flushing, NY Dr. William Strange, Fort Garland, CO Karl Striedieck, Port Matilda, PA Corrine Sutila, Los Angeles, CA Mushtaq Syed, Santa Clara, CA Dr. Yusuf Tamimi, Hilo, HI Doris Taweel, Laurel, MD J. Tayeb, Shelby Township, MI William Thiessen, Bemidji, MN††† George Tlamsa, Bayside, NY Ned Toomey, Bishop, CA Thomas Trueblood, Chapel Hill, NC Nona Tyler, Loveland, CO Unitarian Universalists for Justice, Cambridge, MA Tom Veblen, Washington, DC Elizabeth & Lawrence Waldron, Berkeley, CA Sheila Wells, Monterey Park, CA Duane & Barbara Wentz, Kirkland, WA Keith Wilbanks, Gainesville, GA Darrell & Sue Yeaney, Scotts Valley, CA Raymond Younes, Oxnard, CA Mashood Yunus, Eagan, MN Munir Zacharia, La Mirada, CA Nadim & Alicia Zacharia, San Diego, CA Ziyad & Cindi Zaitoun, Seattle, WA Fred Zuercher, Spring Grove, PA

ACCOMPANISTS ($250 or more) Mohamed Alwan, Chestnut Ridge, NY Dr. Majid Azzedine, Lakewood, WA Mr. & Mrs. Robert Beckmann, Seattle, WA Robert Adams Boyd, Binghamton, NY Prof. & Mrs. George W. Buchanan, Gaithersburg, MD Lynn & Aletha Carlton, Norwalk, CT Joe Chamy, Colleyville, TX Joseph Daruty, Newport Beach, CA Robert & Tanis Diedrichs, Cedar Falls, IA Eugene Fitzpatrick, Wheat Ridge, CO Joseph & Angela Gauci, Whittier, CA Ray Gordon, Bel Air, MD Iftekhar Hai, S. San Francisco, CA Delinda C. Hanley, Kensington, MD*** 74

Shirley Hannah, Argyle, NY Masood Hassan, Calabasas, CA Dr. Colbert & Mildred Held, Waco, TX Salman & Kate Hilmy, Silver Spring, MD Omar & Nancy Kader, Vienna, VA Issa & Rose Kamar, Plano, TX Martha Katz, Youngstown, OH Dr. M. Jamil Khan, Bloomfield Hills, MI Omar Khwaja, Irvine, CA Paul N. Kirk, Baton Rouge, LA Michael Ladah, Las Vegas, NV Kendall Landis, Media, PA David & Renee Lent, Hanover, NH† Nidal Mahayni, Richmond, VA†† Rachelle Marshall, Mill Valley, CA Tom & Tess McAndrew, Oro Valley, AZ Dr. Charles W. McCutchen, Bethesda, MD Ben Monk, St. Paul, MN Dr. Eid B. Mustafa, Wichita Falls, TX John Pallone, Rapallo, Germany Arthur Paone, Belmar, NJ Edward & Ann Peck, Chevy Chase, MD Catherine Quigley, Annandale, VA Sam Rahman, Lincoln, CA Neil Richardson, Randolph, VT Henry Schubert, Damascus, OR Jack & Bernice Shaheen, Hilton Head, SC*, ** Yasir Shallal, McLean, VA James G. Smart, Keene, NH David J. Snider, Airmont, NY Mubadda Suidan, Atlanta, GA Michel & Cathy Sultan, Eau Claire, WI John Theodosi, Lafayette, CA John V. Whitbeck, Paris, France Darrell & Sue Yeaney, Scotts Valley, CA Rafi Ziauddin, West Chester, PA

TENORS & CONTRALTOS ($500 or more) Michael Ameri, Calabasas, CA Rev. Dr. Lois Aroian, Willow Lake, SD Kamel and Majda Ayoub, Hillsborough, CA Graf Herman Bender, North Palm Beach, FL Wilhelmine Bennett, Iowa City, IA Rev. Ronald C. Chochol, St. Louis, MO Mr. & Mrs. John Crawford, Boulder, CO Richard Curtiss, Boynton Beach, FL* Mervat Eid, Henrietta, NY Edouard Emmet, Paris, France Rafeek Farah, New Boston, MI Elisabeth Fitzhugh, Mitchellville, MD Elaine & William Guenther, Saint Joseph, MO George Hanna, Santa Ana, CA Brigitte Jaensch, Carmichael, CA Les Janka, Leesburg, VA Zagloul Kadah, Seattle, WA Gloria Keller, Santa Rosa, CA Kids in Need of Development Education, Richardson, TX Mahmud Khan, Columbia, SC Joe & Lilly Lill, Arlington, VA Bill & Jean Mansour, Corvallis, OR THE WASHINGTON REPORT ON MIDDLE EAST AFFAIRS

Jean Mayer, Bethesda, MD Maury Keith Moore, Seattle, WA Liz Mulford, Cupertino, CA Patricia & Herbert Pratt, Cambridge, MA Mary Regier, Albany, CA**** Robert Reynolds, Mill Valley, CA Gabrielle Saad, Oakland, CA Shahida Siddiqui, Trenton, NJ Yusef & Jennifer Sifri, Wilmington, NC† Mae Stephen, Palo Alto, CA Michel & Cathy Sultan, Eau Claire, WI Dr. Robert Younes, Potomac, MD*

BARITONES & MEZZO SOPRANOS ($1,000 or more) Asha A. Anand, Bethesda, MD Dr. Abdullah Arar, Amman, Jordan G. Edward & Ruth Brooking, Wilmington, DE Rev. Rosemarie Carnarius & Aston Bloom, Tucson, AZ Donald Bustany, Studio City, CA William G. Coughlin, Brookline, MA Luella Crow, Eugene, OR Thomas D’Albani & Dr. Jane Killgore, Bemidji, MN Gregory DeSylva, Rhinebeck, NY Linda Emmet, Paris, France Dr. & Mrs. Clyde Farris, West Linn, OR Ronald & Mary Forthofer, Longmont, CO Evan & Leman Fotos, Istanbul, Turkey* Hind Hamdan, Hagerstown, MD Judith Howard, Norwood, MA** Mary Ann Hrankowski, Rochester, NY††† Shafiq Kombargi, Houston, TX Jack Love, San Diego, CA John Mahoney, AMEU, New York, NY Gerald & Judith Merrill, Oakland, CA Bob Norberg, Lake City, MN Mary Norton, Austin, TX Imad Tabry, Ft. Lauderdale, FL Norman Tanber, Dana Point, CA Ms. Janice Terry, Marietta, OH John Van Wagoner, McLean, VA

CHOIRMASTERS ($5,000 or more) Henry Clifford, Essex, CT Donna B. Curtiss, Kensington, MD****, † John & Henrietta Goelet, New York, NY Andrew I. Killgore, Washington, DC Vincent & Louise Larsen, Billings, MT*, ** Mahmud Shaikhaly, Hollywood, CA Joan Toole, Albany, GA *In Memory of Richard H. Curtiss **In Honor of Andrew I. Killgore ***For Helen Thomas Internship ****In Memory of Frank Regier †In Memory of Ghassan Sabbagh ††In Memory of Leila Goodman †††In Memory of USS Liberty JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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American Educational Trust The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs P.O. Box 53062 Washington, DC 20009

January/February 2015 Vol. XXXIV, No. 1

A new Israeli police surveillance balloon hovers over the Arab East Jerusalem neighborhood of Ras al-Amud, Nov. 11, 2014.

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