Mass Violence and Support Dynamics in Gaza

The current situation in Gaza is one of mass murder and starvation affecting Palestinian civilians. Many Western governments, especially in Europe and North America, continue to support the Israeli government with military, political, and economic aid, despite the devastation it causes. Recent criticisms of Israeli actions have led to some discussion about material support, including weapons and intelligence sharing.

This situation should be deeply concerning for Jews globally. The phrase “Never again,” rising from the ashes of the Holocaust, signifies a moral pledge based on shared suffering. However, that phrase seems to lose its meaning today. When a government permits ethnic cleansing, facilitates the deaths of children, and ignores the severe cruelty involved in this all while claiming to ensure Jewish safety, it not only endangers Palestinians but also undermines the moral authority of those invoking this principle.

While Western backing for Israel’s current leadership might momentarily ease tensions, it doesn’t address the root causes. Despite increasing public backlash, there have been no significant actions like arms embargoes, financial penalties, or diplomatic repercussions against Prime Minister Netanyahu’s administration. This inaction often stems from historical guilt, political strategy, and apprehensions about accusations of anti-Semitism. Yet, merely expressing disapproval without consequences can feel complicit.

If I were Jewish, I’d be quite troubled. Once that justified fear grows, what stops it from repeating? And who might end up suffering next?

Many envisioned the 21st century to be characterized by shared humanity and tough lessons learned from history. But Netanyahu and his militaristic supporters seem to be steering the region in an opposing direction. Over two decades, he’s worked against a realistic two-state solution, boosting Hamas at the expense of Palestinian moderates. This misrepresentation not only misleads his citizens but also the international audience. These decisions weren’t mere policy failures—they were deliberate moves to consolidate personal power, putting peace on the back burner.

If Israel truly aims to eliminate Hamas, it must also confront those who have empowered it. Netanyahu’s divide-and-rule tactics have fragmented the Palestinian populace, allowing Israel to claim that there are “no partners for peace.” This irony only exacerbates the ongoing crisis.

Back in 2016, I discussed how Israel could support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, picturing a future filled with integration and cooperation. However, such collaboration must be grounded in justice. A viable Palestinian state isn’t an obstacle to peace—it’s essential.

Recently, Prince Faisal bin Fahan of Saudi Arabia met with counterparts from Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, and Palestine in Amman to discuss efforts toward ending the war and revitalizing talks about two-state solutions. Israel, however, obstructed the meeting from taking place in Ramallah, reflecting the current Israeli government’s diplomatic stance. Netanyahu, along with his Defense Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, has adopted a zero-sum strategy that jeopardizes both regional stability and Israel’s long-term security.

Saudi Arabia and its Arab partners genuinely seek lasting peace. Today, 147 countries recognize Palestine, with Norway, Spain, and Ireland joining last year. Others, like France, may follow suit soon. These initiatives aim to break the cycle of violence and build peace, based on two key pillars: the security of both a Palestinian state and Israel.

Netanyahu argues that a two-state solution is a threat to Israel, but it’s quite the opposite. It’s actually the most reliable route to peace. This is precisely why both he and Iranian Ayatollah Khamenei oppose the idea. These two unusual allies seem united in their goal to dismantle the two-state vision. One of Netanyahu’s strategies has been to reframe the concept of a two-state solution as mere “illusions,” a phrase crafted to diminish hope and inhibit diplomacy.

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has articulated a bold vision, expressing a desire to see the Middle East transformed into a significant global region, much like a new Europe. However, that can’t occur without a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel could lead to historical trade, diplomacy, and development, benefiting a vast majority of Muslims. Yet, such a vision must encompass Palestinian dignity, statehood, and justice.

If the government continues to support Netanyahu’s administration, the Western Jewish community should take a stand. We should merge two vital principles: “Never again” and “Not in my name.” Together, these reject genocide and collective punishment, while advocating for justice and humanity. The global awareness is growing. My conscience is troubled. It’s never too late to take a stand on the right side of history.