Web Letters: The State of Zionism

This magnificent article by British Jew and Oxford philosopher Brian Klug soundly describes how Zionism is in crisis--easily in five arenas. He has not included in that the US intervention in helping to create what he describes as a "Gordian knot of seamless identity." He further explains, referring to many scholarly sources, quoting their references to Israel as almost magical, mythical, a movement--but not what makes a state. He really gets to the point when he refers to its treatment of its neighbors who really have no existence. No partner for peace. Sound familiar?

He uses the term "illusion as entrapment" as another part of this Gordian knot. This recalled for me the forces that enabled our US invasion of Iraq. Another familiar ring. He further highlights Israel's failure to intergrate into the region, in its persistent isolation, compounded by its most recent dismissal of the the 2002 Saudi peace initiative.

He soundly states that "we cannot formulate today's questions in yesterday's language. It is time to move on." He refers to the founder of Zionism, Theodor Herzl both starting and ending with him. He recalls one of Herzl's phrases that he believes would be of use today: "If you will it, it is not a dream." Brian Klug finds this a motto worth using for a hopeful future, when full civil equality will exist for both Arab and Hebrew cultures, thriving and mingling together.

All of us Americans need to help will this too. I believe we are as much a part of this Gordian knot as any World Jew is. Let's ask the right leaders to act upon it. Those who are successful at peace pacts. Otherwise, it will remain a dream.

Priscilla Rich
Sept11Action

Danville, CA