John Stewart Critiques Israeli Actions in Gaza
In a recent episode of “The Daily Show,” John Stewart strongly criticized Israel’s current policies regarding Gaza, describing them as “self-evidently inhumane and horrifying.” He expressed concern about accusations directed at other Jews, labeling them “bad Jews” for voicing their opinions on the ongoing conflict.
Stewart reflected on how Jews often perceive themselves as weaker, questioning, “What happens when David becomes Goliath?” He accused pro-Israel commentators of a “deliberate hunger” to deny that the situation amounts to genocide.
The UN Commission has recently faced criticism for its controversial report asserting Israel is engaging in actions characteristic of “extinction.”
Stewart expressed his frustration, declaring, “I feel like I’m a crazy person… looking at something very self-evident, inhuman, and terrifying.” He believes the conflict poses not just a moral hazard but also a risk to Israel’s very existence.
“Am I to be quiet because my criticisms put the Jewish state in jeopardy? I argue the opposite,” he said, asserting that such actions may endanger the survival of a Jewish nation more than anything else.
He even famously suggested that if one were to define anti-Semitism as actions against Jews, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be at fault—an ironic twist to the conversation.
Peter Beinart, editor of “Jewish Currents,” supported Stewart’s view, recalling how Palestinians staged a “overwhelmingly non-violent” march in Gaza seven years ago. He lamented that the U.S. does not support peaceful protests, noting, “When they engage in non-violent boycotts, we criminalize them.” He referenced the backlash against movements like BDS and the actions taken against the International Criminal Court in the wake of Netanyahu’s policies.
Beinart hinted at the implications of Hamas’ actions during the recent October 7 terrorist attack, stating, “We essentially send a message to Palestinians that non-violent protest… will not work.” He argued that this dynamic facilitates violence rather than peaceful resistance.
