## Article: Rising Out of the Political Trauma: A Call for Action in the Middle East

Like Punxsutawney Phil, I’ve started to come out of my hole after last week’s trauma. I was angry at Everybody, including myself. Party politics of any sort will be a distant concern for a while. What is not is the burgeoning war in the Middle East. We should lean hard into support for an aid cut-off to Israel. Everything. Note that what’s in question here is not the material effect of the aid, but the political one inside Israel. We need to recognize the distinction between Judaism and Zionism, between Jews and Zionists, and seek Jewish allies rather than pre-judge or stereotype them.

Sure, other things are important too, and the incoming Administration will be setting all sorts of fires that will beg to be put out. In politics, focus and repetition count for the most. It will pay to focus on Palestine (and Yemen, Lebanon, and Iran). Sadly, the Left has a clear field here, besides the agitation among Muslim organizations. Most important, EVERYBODY WILL KNOW WE ARE RIGHT. That’s a political advantage.

The specter of Trump’s wreckage of democratic institutions certainly looks threatening, but it will prove to be related to the Middle East. Defying the incoming Administration on Israel will be a challenge to the full spectrum of Federal lawless enforcement bodies on which MAGA power depends. Success on the former breeds success on the latter. You beat something with something else. Back in the day, the anti-war movement opened up all sorts of collateral doors.

Democratic Party voices these days can be pretty sickening. I read somewhere that MSNBC is hemorrhaging viewers. The only talker I still watch (in reduced doses these days), Chris Hayes, said the other night, “I wouldn’t watch me.” Joy Reid is just a hack. Rachel Maddow gives me hives. Lawrence O’Donnell, smart and sometimes insightful, is on too late; I can only take so much rehash of the day. The Party establishment — its elite pols, consultants, donors — has discredited itself. Of course, it wants to blame the Woke or the Left, like it always does. Recognizing the opening, Bernie with his unerring political instincts, plunged in the knife. Would that we could all help to exploit this opportunity. Topic A for moral, strategic, and tactical reasons is still Israel’s expanding rampage in the Middle East.

## FAQ

### 1. Why is it important to focus on the situation in the Middle East?
Focusing on the situation in the Middle East, particularly with regards to Israel’s actions, is crucial due to the humanitarian and political implications involved. By understanding the nuances and complexities of the region, we can better advocate for peace and justice.

### 2. How can individuals support aid cut-off to Israel?
Individuals can support aid cut-off to Israel by raising awareness, contacting their representatives, and participating in advocacy campaigns that promote accountability and human rights in the region.

### 3. What role do Jewish allies play in the conversation about Israel and Zionism?
Jewish allies play a significant role in providing diverse perspectives and challenging stereotypes about Judaism and Zionism. By working together with Jewish allies, we can foster dialogue, understanding, and solidarity in addressing the issues in the Middle East.

## Conclusion

As we navigate through the political landscape and global conflicts, it is essential to remain informed, engaged, and compassionate towards those affected by the crises in the Middle East. By advocating for peace, justice, and human rights, we can contribute to a more sustainable and harmonious world for all. Let us continue to raise our voices, support meaningful action, and stand in solidarity with those in need.