"States Don’t Have a Right to Exist. People Do." By Peter Beinart. NYTimes .Jan. 27, 2025. Key Points.

Key Points:

1. Consensus in Washington:

Bipartisan agreement exists among U.S. leaders that Israel has a right to exist, as evidenced by statements from figures across the political spectrum.

In 2023, the House affirmed Israel's right to exist by a vote of 412-1.

2. Questioning Israel’s Form of Governance:

The usual focus of U.S. leaders on individual rights contrasts with their support for Israel as a Jewish state, which raises concerns about equal rights for all under its control.

The better question, according to the author, is whether Israel, as a Jewish state, adequately protects the rights of all individuals under its jurisdiction. The conclusion is that it does not.

3. Comparison with Other Nations:

U.S. leaders support democratic reforms in oppressive regimes like Iran and China but exempt Israel from similar scrutiny.

This double standard highlights a focus on the consent of the governed in other states but not in Israel.

4. Rights Denial and Discrimination:

Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank live under Israeli control without citizenship or equal rights.

Even Palestinian citizens of Israel face systemic discrimination in land allocation and representation.

5. American Jewish Leadership and Idolatry of the State:

American Jewish leaders insist on Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state, despite contradictions with democratic principles.

Jewish tradition, which emphasizes skepticism of state power, is at odds with the veneration of Israel as a political entity.

6. Human Rights Abuses:

Israel has been accused of apartheid by its own human rights organization, B’Tselem, and has seen increasing settler violence against Palestinians.

The Gaza conflict illustrates the dangers of denying basic rights, perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.

7. Implications for Jewish Safety:

Denying Palestinians representation and rights leads to violence, endangering both Jews and Palestinians.

The emphasis on maintaining Israel as a Jewish state undermines the principle of equality and fuels ongoing conflict.

Conclusion:

The author argues for a rethinking of Israel’s character, emphasizing the protection of all individuals under its control.

Worship of the state as an absolute value can justify harmful actions and perpetuate inequality.

Source:

NYTimes

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