In a non-binding vote last week, the U.S. Senate supported the Israeli attacks on Gaza. The House is expected to do the same this week.
It shows again that our leaders lack the will to stand against violence when it is perpetrated by allies, and profitable for U.S. arms makers, no matter the suffering, injustice, inefficacy, or the opposition of U.S. citizens.
Democratic politicians are particularly culpable. Polls show that registered Democrats oppose the Israeli attacks by a 24-point margin.
The Democrats are also particularly short-sighted. Hillary Clinton's go-along-to-get-along support for the invasion of Iraq cost her the presidency.
Consider the results of the "cake walk" Dick Cheney predicted in Iraq. Expect similar results in Gaza. The military attacks on citizens there will weaken moderates and strengthen militants. Prospects for negotiation lessen with each death.
Our responsibility as citizens here is to shorten the inevitable lag time between what we know is right, and politicians acting on it. Please write to your representatives today.
Stephen Burke
for Ithaca Blog
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