Israel, American Jews, and Peace

Shmuel Rosner, who now blogs daily for the Jerusalem Post and almost daily for contentions, was interviewed by Jeffrey Goldberg about a number of topics, in an interview worth reading in its entirety. 

Here is how Rosner responded to this question:  “Do American Jews have a role to play in bringing about a just and equitable solution to the
Middle East crisis?”

Yes, but I’m not sure if this is the role you believe in.  I think that what American Jews can do — the best service they can give as to advance Middle East peace — is to support
Israel as much as they can.  And by support I do not necessarily mean “give money”.  In fact, giving money is the easiest way for people to support someone when they do not want to be bothered — but I’d like American Jews to be bothered.  I want them coming for visits, I want them caring, I want them lobbying. 

And no — I do not want them to be criticizing Israel in public and trying to pressure Israel on matters of policy and trying to “save Israel from itself” and all that condescending crap.  Not because I think Israel doesn’t deserve criticism, or doesn’t make mistakes, but because there are more than enough people criticizing Israel already and because making policy is for people who will eventually pay the price for it — and because Israel is a “responsible adult”. 

And with all due respect for those thinking that they know better — I think they don’t.  Not those on the right urging settlers to defy government orders to evacuate from their homes in Hebron . . . and not those on the left thinking they have the key for Middle East peace . . . .  

. . . I know that unconditionally supporting
Israel might sound like a mission that is hardly ambitious for those Jews in
America who believe that their role is fixing the world (Tikkun Olam).  But I’m a man of small ambitions, and I think that it is better for American Jews to try and do one thing they actually can do — and not the many things they can’t.  Supporting
Israel is a responsibility you did not ask for — but it’s yours nevertheless. 

And since I also believe that a stronger
Israel gives more hope for
Middle East peace, this is what I’d prescribe for those eager to advance this specific cause.