"Self Defense"

Let me state clearly: criticism of the State of Israel is not criticism of Jewish people. Conflating the two shuts down necessary accountability.

The State of Israel frames its actions as self-defense. However, when “self-defense” is no longer a credible justification—it becomes a shield against accountability.

For decades, Israeli policy toward Palestinians has involved military dominance, unlawful territorial incursion and expansion, and restrictions levied against Palestinians that affect movement, land access, and economic development. Many international observers describe these conditions as systemically unequal (an apartheid construct), contributing to ongoing instability and grievance.

When Israel’s military actions result in widespread civilian harm and prolonged humanitarian crises, Israel’s justification deserves scrutiny. Proceedings before international legal bodies, including the International Court of Justice, have raised the question of whether these actions may plausibly constitute genocide or other serious violations of international law.  At minimum, the scale of harm which has been exacted against the Palestinians and now Iran and Lebanon demands accountability.

There’s also a broader question: if force is used while diplomatic channels are still open (as in the current case involving Iran), and without a plausible, evident imminent threat, does it measure up to the standard of necessity—or is it simply escalation? What is at issue is policy—and its consequences.

The United States is not immune from this.  America’s ongoing military and political involvement on the side of Israel ties American credibility to these outcomes. If U.S. power is used in ways that are widely viewed as disproportionate or legally questionable, that raises serious constitutional and ethical concerns.  The United States cannot credibly act as an advocate for human rights while appearing inconsistent in applying them.

It also raises concerns when foreign policy appears connected—directly or indirectly—to private interests. Figures such as Jared Kushner and others involved in past Middle East policy have drawn scrutiny over financial relationships in the region. Even the implication of overlap between policy and personal gain alone erodes trust ; and trust matters..

If American lives are put at risk, the American public has both a right and a responsibility to ask:

• Is this lawful?

• Is this necessary?

• Who does this serve?

This is not about 'abandoning' allies, it is about applying standards consistently: long-term security is not built force alone—it is built upon legitimate diplomacy, international accountability, credibility, and a commitment to human rights.

If we don’t ask hard questions about how power is used—especially our own—we shouldn’t be surprised when the answers are decided without us.