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Ilan Eichner W
Lawyer & Law Professor

The way you protest defines who you are

Created by ChatGPT with DALL-E, 2024.

Since October 7, 2023, the conflict between Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East, and the radical Palestinian Islamic group Hamas has resurfaced. Recent protests have highlighted two contrasting approaches: peaceful demonstrations in support of Israel and violent protests ostensibly in defense of the Palestinians, but in reality, demonizing Israel with an antisemitic undertone. It is imperative to conduct a thorough examination of how the actions of each group either align with or deviate from the principles of freedom and human rights. Specifically, regarding pro-Palestinian protests, there is a concerning correlation between acts of vandalism, violence, and the promotion of radical Islamic terrorism.

Mobilizations that support the State of Israel, distinguished by their family-friendly nature, organization, and peaceful ambiance, exemplify a profound commitment to and comprehension of Western values. A notable instance of this occurred during the gathering in New York on October 10, 2023, where thousands assembled peacefully in Central Park to demonstrate their solidarity with the State of Israel. This event transpired without any untoward incidents, underscoring the participants’ dedication to expressing themselves in a respectful and civil manner.

During the same period, in cities such as Los Angeles and Toronto, Jewish communities organized educational events to inform the public about the situation in Israel, promoting a deeper understanding and a peaceful response; such gatherings serve to unite people around shared values of respect and cooperation and reflect a commitment to education and dialogue as tools for peace.

Several pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been marred by violent incidents, hate speech, and vandalism, indicating a preference for confrontation and damage. For example, a protest in London in support of Palestine on November 4, 2023, turned violent, with protesters clashing with police, setting fire to vehicles, and throwing objects at security forces. Similarly, on May 28, 2024, a violent group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators attacked the Israeli embassy in Mexico, resulting in fires and riots during a tense confrontation with local Law enforcement. The actions of these individuals not only undermine the Palestinian cause but also foster an atmosphere of fear and mistrust in society.

In urban centers like Chicago and Barcelona, demonstrations in support of the Palestinian cause have contributed to a notable rise in confrontations with Law enforcement. These incidents have fostered an atmosphere of unease and apprehension, impacting public perceptions of the Palestinian movement and posing risks to the safety of all individuals involved.

Created by ChatGPT with DALL-E, 2024.

An illustrative instance of the modus operandi of the Palestinian cause is evident on US university campuses, where a concerning trend has arisen. Students, at times without a comprehensive grasp of the situation, fervently endorse the cause of Palestinian liberation, inadvertently lending support to terrorism and extremist Islamic factions that stand in opposition to the very principles of freedom and human rights that these students perceive themselves as championing. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations at institutions such as Berkeley and NYU have encompassed provocative rhetoric, fomentation, as well as instances of vandalism and destruction, perpetuating an atmosphere of animosity and conflict. This escalating lack of discernment reflects a perilous disconnection from the democratic and nonviolent principles that ought to underlie any movement for social justice.

The contrasting approaches to protest by diverse groups are indicative of the values they uphold. Demonstrations in support of Israel symbolize a commitment to upholding the Law, aiming to foster productive dialogue and advance solutions through mutual understanding and cooperation. On the other hand, pro-Palestinian protests, often marked by violence, reflect a confrontational strategy that undermines the principles of peace and justice, potentially alienating allies and perpetuating a narrative of disorder, violence, and turmoil.

It is crucial for social and political movements to carefully consider the approaches they utilize to promote their causes. Acts of violence and vandalism are not only ethically unjustifiable but also strategically counterproductive. Throughout history, it has been demonstrated that movements grounded in violence seldom accomplish their long-term objectives and instead perpetuate cycles of conflict and hardship.

The Israel-Palestine conflict is rooted in more than just territorial and religious disparities. At its essence, it represents a clash of values and worldviews. Israel, as a developed nation, stands for principles of freedom, human rights, and peaceful coexistence. Conversely, the radical Islamic groups associated with pro-Palestinian movements often advocate violence, the rule of the strongest, and the imposition of a singular culture.

It is of utmost importance that the international community advocates for and upholds peaceful means of protest and unity, as it is only through open dialogue and collaboration that a future of harmony and mutual existence can be realized.

The contrasting approaches to protest between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian (anti-Israel) groups signify more than just strategic variances; they represent a clear manifestation of the values and principles each faction upholds. Peaceful demonstrations in solidarity with Israel epitomize a dedication to peace, democracy, and adherence to the rule of Law, while violent protests in support of Palestine indicate a preference for confrontation and destruction. It is crucial to continue advocating for peaceful forms of protest and strive towards a fair and enduring resolution to the conflict, bearing in mind that peace should be the ultimate objective. Only through peace, societal harmony, and mutual respect can a more promising future for humanity be forged.

Created by ChatGPT with DALL-E, 2024.
About the Author
Lawyer, Law School Professor, Zionist activist, and writer, specializing in the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East. His work, published in various esteemed journals, focuses on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering in-depth analyses that blend historical, legal, and ethical insights. Known for his ability to unravel complex geopolitical issues, he provides insightful and nuanced viewpoints on contemporary challenges in the region.
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