Over 350 rabbis and Jewish activists publicly condemned Donald Trump’s Gaza plan, branding it as ethnic cleansing. The advertisement emphasizes the need for solidarity with Palestinians and asserts that such proposals reflect a troubling shift in political attitudes.
More than 350 rabbis, alongside Jewish activists and creatives, condemned Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza in an advertisement published in The New York Times. They labeled the proposal as “ethnic cleansing” and called for a strong rejection of such actions. Notable signatories include influential figures like Sharon Brous, Roly Matalon, and Alissa Wise, along with artists and activists such as Tony Kushner and Joaquin Phoenix.
The advertisement was issued in response to Trump’s plan to take over Gaza, a move that would displace approximately 2 million Palestinians following a military campaign by Israel. Trump suggested that neighboring Arab nations like Jordan and Egypt should accommodate the displaced people, intensifying the backlash against his proposals.
Cody Edgerly, director of the In Our Name Campaign, emphasized the importance of the ad’s publication during a tumultuous political climate as support for such measures appears to be growing. He affirmed that their collective commitment to standing with Palestinians remains strong, ensuring they are not alone amidst adversity.
Rabbi Toba Spitzer described Trump’s proposal as an “insidious plan,” invoking memories of the 1948 Nakba, a period when many Palestinians faced displacement. She called for American Jews to resist such proposals that echo past atrocities and demanded the establishment of a permanent ceasefire and initiatives to rebuild Gaza.
Peter Beinart, a signatory, expressed shock at the extent to which respected community figures endorse actions that resemble grave human rights violations, labeling them as potential 21st-century crimes. Rabbi Yosef Berman criticized Trump for overstepping moral boundaries, asserting that no individual has the authority to deny the dignity of Palestinians or exploit their suffering for profit.
Since Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties, Israel’s military response has led to thousands of Palestinian deaths and displacements within Gaza. The current humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by severe shortages of crucial supplies due to Israeli restrictions.
In a Fox News interview, Trump referred to Gaza as a potential “real estate development,” indicating a disregard for the region’s existing socio-political dynamics. He made it clear that under his plan, Palestinians would not be permitted to return to Gaza, further influencing perceptions of his approach to the conflict.
The advertisement opposing Trump’s Gaza plan reflects a broad coalition within the Jewish community rejecting policies viewed as ethnic cleansing. The unequivocal condemnation from over 350 rabbis and others underscores a commitment to human rights and the protection of Palestinian dignity. As political tensions rise, the call for solidarity and active opposition to such proposals is pivotal for fostering peace in the region.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
