I frequently post news articles on Facebook. Usually, when it comes to Israel, a land close to my heart and mentioned daily in my prayers, these articles bring me grief, as they deal with a host of problems that she faces.
Occasionally, these posts elicit angry comments from friends accusing me of supporting those who would destroy us, that my posts provide aid and comfort to the enemy.
Here’s the rub: the articles that I post often come from Israeli sources or are posted by Israeli friends. The protests usually come from Americans. For some, the only newsworthy articles show Israel as victim, or Israeli success in science and business.
There are many reasons one can give for remaining quiet about the problems in Israel today, but my greater concern is why we shouldn’t. I believe in an Israel that is, and acts as, a Jewish state. That raises the bar of responsibility high. A modern Israel that abides by Jewish values need not be a theocracy, but it ought to care for all its inhabitants equally and justly, Jew and non-Jew alike.
Previously, we have had two opportunities to have a unified state in our native homeland. The first, under Saul, David, and Solomon, lasted about 80 years and then split, ultimately falling to outside conquerers. The second, under the Maccabean/Hasmonean dynasty, also lasted about 80 years before falling into Roman hands.
Since 1948 we have had our third chance. For the better part of its existence, Israel knew little else than the threat of war from hostile neighbors on every border and beyond. While that threat has diminished, Israel’s security remains precarious, and the threat of a nuclear Iran remains on the horizon. But during these years, Israel has erected its own barriers to peace. The current governing coalition has begrudgingly paid lip service to the peace process and to a two-state solution. Meanwhile, the country’s social fabric has been fraying at the seams, and the natural and expected support of Jews in America is on the wane. Within Israel, questions about the end of Zionism are not uncommon.
Rather than lamenting the demise of Zionism, I believe that we have yet to see the best that it has to offer. I believe that we are a chosen people - chosen to bear a responsibility, to serve as a beacon, to bring Godliness into this world. But we must overcome some obstacles that prevent us from shining that light. That cannot happen while Israel rules over a population that must endure subjugation. We must assist in fostering peace through a two-state solution.
Both Israeli and Palestinian representatives must return to the negotiating table. Both sides must cease all forms of incitement and keep their radical elements in check. Both must do more to build confidence in each other to create an atmosphere that will be conducive to a peaceful settlement.
The US can assist in this process as motivator and mediator, rallying international support and economic incentives that can motivate both sides. But while support for Israel was once bipartisan and largely univocal, it is now a wedge issue between Republicans and Democrats, and the target audience for some politicians is for Jewish dollars and evangelical votes.
American Jews need a sane voice for an Israel that put the brakes on the car that is racing towards the cliff. That voice is J Street.
J Street is a young organization that serves as the voice for American Jews who want the US to engage in the constructive advancement of the peace process. It is informed by Jewish values, drawing the engagement of Jews who share a deep love for Israel and a commitment to its security and survival. J Street advocates for the US to leverage its influence to bring both Israelis and Palestinians back to the negotiating table, and to work together towards a two-state settlement.
It fights an uphill battle against a growing force that includes many evangelicals whose increasingly hawkish policy goals are detrimental to Israel’s security and wellbeing. J Street not only represents a growing consensus among American Jews, it also supports the position of a growing number of Israelis who support a two-state solution.
Recently, several members of our local community decided to work with J Street to engage the Jewish community north of Boston to do our part to advance the peace process. We urge you to join us to help bring peace and security to Israel.
