As I read today’s column on the Middle East, I could not help reflecting on the deeper roots of this conflict and the responsibility of powerful nations that helped shape it.
In 1948, more than 700,000 Palestinians were displaced or fled their homes during the war surrounding Israel’s creation. For decades, Palestinians have endured occupation, displacement, military rule, settlement expansion and repeated wars that have brought immense suffering to civilians. The bombing of homes, schools and hospitals, has shocked the conscience of people around the world.
The United States and many European nations have supplied Israel with enormous military, financial and diplomatic support while often failing to apply equal pressure for a just peace. This has contributed to a cycle in which violence breeds more violence and ordinary people pay the price.
The region’s turmoil also cannot be understood without recalling the 1953 overthrow of Iran’s democratically elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh by British and American intelligence services. The restoration of the Shah, backed by the feared SAVAK security apparatus, helped fuel resentment that ultimately contributed to Iran’s 1979 revolution.
Today, Palestinians, Lebanese and Iranians continue to suffer the consequences of decades of failed policies, foreign intervention and missed opportunities for peace. Lasting security will come not from more weapons, but from justice, accountability, diplomacy and recognition of the equal humanity of all people.
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