During Herzog’s address in the US, there were concerns that he attempted to downplay Israeli crimes while receiving praise from western politicians for Israel’s supposed “democratic” values. The speech seemed to reinforce a sense of impunity for Israeli violations, turning a blind eye to international law and human rights concerns.
The fact that more than 70 discriminatory laws targeting Palestinians are still in place raises serious questions about the nature of Israel’s policies, with some experts even characterizing them as constituting apartheid.
The address was viewed by many as a public relations move rather than a genuine effort towards peace. It appeared to sidestep the core issues of justice and equality, leading critics to believe that it was an attempt to present a positive image while avoiding accountability for past actions. Such actions, including war crimes and human rights violations, seemed to have been concealed behind diplomatic rhetoric.
The US Congress’s unwavering support for Israel, despite these troubling developments, has drawn comparisons to historical endorsements of South African apartheid during a darker chapter in history. This raises concerns about the consistency and principles of US foreign policy when it comes to human rights and justice.
In the meantime, there are growing concerns about far-right Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich’s plans for forced displacement and apartheid, which are reportedly being implemented on the ground. These plans, if realized, could lead to grave consequences for Palestinian communities and further deepen the divide in the region.
Overall, Herzog’s address and the broader political landscape surrounding Israel’s actions highlight the complexities of the situation and the urgent need for a genuine commitment to peace, justice, and human rights for all parties involved.