The latest offensive against the Gaza Strip and the final curtain in Israeli elections seemed recently to converge in a surreal way for me. So, this confirmed for me that, indeed, there is an increased awareness and outpouring of support for the Palestinians. Fantastic! But....
First, the fact that former President Donald Trump and then Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were both being investigated for the same or very similar crimes was weird enough. But, the fact that Bibi's successor is far right wing, and that the most recent conflict started with far right youth storming al Aqsa, well...what am I trying to say here? We have The Proud Boys and Oath Keepers in the U.S. According to this article, the "Khanists" are becoming an issue in Israel, following a right wing rabbi who advocates the complete removal of all Palestinians, by force if needed-wow!
My key take away from this interview is that Netanyahu has driven international unity with the Palestinians. Ambassador Zomlot's unique perspective left me wanting to better understand this potential "perfect storm" I sense is coming. It may already be here. I am unsure how it will all look when the wind quits blowing, but it won't be the same. I only hope it will be better, more humane.
The global movements advocating protections for minorities, for the poor, for native peoples, for the very planet we call home, are being met with fierce resistance by the wealthiest, most powerful people in the world, and by those they are able to whip into a frenzy. Meanwhile, as the Poles melt and wildfire season starts early, stay tuned. It may be a very long, hot summer, in Palestine and here in America.
