This op-ed was so InSpIrInG however it was riddled with so many false equivalencies and woefully inadequate attention to the details of the conflict.
https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/an-open-letter-to-palestinians-you-can-break-this-cycle/
The op-ed correctly notes the asymmetry between Israel and Palestine, yet it seems to downplay the implications. Israel, as the occupying power, has a legal and moral responsibility to take the first steps towards peace. The suggestion that Palestinians must initiate peace efforts overlooks the fundamental power imbalance and the continued state of oppression. Expecting the oppressed to initiate reconciliation is unrealistic and unjust.
While it’s true that Palestinian leadership has been flawed, Baskins emphasis on Palestinian leadership accepting responsibility for Hamas’s actions on October 7 is contentious. It’s essential to distinguish between the actions of a militant group and the broader Palestinian population. Moreover, the call for Palestinians to recognize Jewish historical ties to the land should be reciprocated with acknowledgment from Israelis of Palestinian historical and ongoing connections to the land.
My favorite was the Nelson Mandela analogy. The comparison to Nelson Mandela and the end of apartheid in South Africa is woefully misleading. Mandela’s approach worked because it was supported by a global movement that recognized the injustice of apartheid and pressured the South African government to change. Similarly, international pressure on Israel to end the occupation and adhere to international law is crucial. Palestinians advocating peace alone, without substantive changes in Israeli policy, will not break the cycle of violence.
Baskin also posits that Israelis will only feel secure when Palestinians are free, and vice versa. While this is true, it glosses over the fact that Israeli policies have systematically undermined Palestinian security and dignity. The expansion of settlements, military incursions, and economic restrictions must end for meaningful progress toward peace. Never mind the toxic and barbaric rhetoric we see from these meandering sycophants in the comment sections on social media.
it’s also worth pointing out that the narrative of “both sides” being equally responsible for the conflict perpetuates a false equivalence. The reality is that one side holds significantly more power and has used it to maintain an occupation that deprives Palestinians of basic human rights. Acknowledging this imbalance is essential for any honest discussion about peace.
While the op-ed calls for new Palestinian voices advocating peace, it must be recognized that real change requires addressing the root causes of the conflict: the occupation, systemic injustices, and the power asymmetry. Palestinians advocating for peace is important, but without a corresponding commitment from Israel to end oppressive policies and actions, these efforts alone cannot achieve lasting peace.