Rabbi's Musings

I love Israel like I love my family. I support them when I like what they are doing. I support them when I am conflicted. As with family, supporting Israel while maintaining a critical perspective requires a balanced approach that acknowledges both Israel’s right to exist and defend itself while also advocating for justice, human rights, and peace. Here are some ways to do that:

1. Support Israel's right to exist and security

• Recognize Israel as a sovereign nation with the right to defend itself against threats.
• Support initiatives that ensure the safety of Israeli citizens from attacks.

2. Advocate for peace and diplomacy

• Promote dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians.
• Support peace initiatives that aim for a two-state solution or other fair resolutions.
• Back organizations that foster coexistence and reconciliation.

3. Criticize policies, not people

• Critique specific government policies rather than making sweeping generalizations about Israel or its people.
• Differentiate between criticism of the Israeli government and antisemitism.

4. Support human rights for all

• Advocate for Palestinian rights, including freedom of movement, economic opportunity, and self-determination.
• Support NGOs that provide humanitarian aid and work toward equal rights.

5. Engage with Israeli and Palestinian voices

• Listen to diverse perspectives, including Israeli and Palestinian activists, scholars, and journalists.
• Follow organizations that promote balanced discussion and solutions.

6. Encourage constructive international involvement

• Support diplomatic efforts that encourage fair negotiations.
• Back policies that promote economic cooperation and development in the region.

7. Invest in bridges, not boycotts

• Instead of broad boycotts, support Israeli businesses and organizations that work toward peace and equality.
• Encourage collaborations between Israelis and Palestinians.

8. Call out extremism on both sides

• Criticize violent actions and rhetoric from all parties involved.
• Reject dehumanization and polarization in discussions about the conflict.

Times are very tough for the future of Israeli Palestinian relations. The response is not to bury our heads in the sand but to support Israel while continuing to work for and hope for lasting peace.