Israel’s calculated method of dismissing criticism of its policies is continuously displayed in the actions and conduct of its leaders. Arrogance and contempt are unmistakably some of the defining characteristics of a leadership foolishly believing that the protection it enjoys from the US to perpetuate violations of human rights and war crimes will last for ever. If it harboured any notion that the American life-line will not only protect it from international censure but also prevent any actualisation of policies it regards as detrimental to its survival as a Zionist state, Judge Richard Goldstone – himself Jewish and a lover of Israel – has served notice that the era of protectionism is not on.
This rude shock from Goldstone has been followed up by another when Turkey abruptly withdrew Israel’s participation in a NATO aerial exercise. It was planned months ago and notwithstanding the threat from the US not to take part without Israel, the Turkish military remained adamant and cancelled the drill. Between Goldstone and Turkey – all in a matter of weeks – Israel must be pinching itself to test whether the nightmare is real.
And even if its loyal band of soothsayers ascribes this misfortune to a petty “glitch”, political analysts are warning that the evidence of a new shift in global opinion cannot be ignored, either by Israel or its diehard supporters around the world.
Safiya Sameena
Vijayawada, A.P