Dear Editor,
When Hamas rocket fire from Gaza killed three people in
Israel last month, we witnessed one of the most overwhelming military
responses in history, even as Israel actively blocked media access
to Gaza. As of January 20th, Israel had killed over 1300 Palestinians
(including more than 500 women & children) while 13 Israelis had died from
military action, friendly fire, and rocket attacks. Several times,
the Israelis hit UN schools and facilities causing dozens of civilian
deaths.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is extreme - with unmet needs for food,
water, and medical supplies. The US government has not been a fair
and objective broker, so the 60-year pattern of Palestinian suffering
continues. The US has subsidized Israel with billions of dollars each
year and has opposed or abstained in United Nations calls for cease-fire
in Gaza. Protestors around the world point to the 100 to 1 death rate
and humanitarian crisis in Gaza - and blame Israel and the US.
With US acquiescence and support, Israel has done exactly what Iran
and the radical Palestinians wanted – over-reacting with massive
military attacks and the victimizing of thousands of innocent civilians.
Radicals on all sides have been made more militant and the Middle East
is less stable for Israel, Palestine, and all nations.
This week, a fragile cease-fire is in place in Gaza and we ask the
new Obama Administration to actively support the United Nations cease-fire
resolution, assist in the humanitarian relief efforts, and work with
both sides for serious Israeli/Palestinian peace negotiations.
Mel Boynton
President, Pomona Valley
United Nations Association of the USA
