As I reflect on the recent news about USC banning the pro-Palestinian valedictorian from speaking at the May commencement due to safety concerns, I can’t help but feel conflicted. On one hand, I understand the university’s need to prioritize safety for all attendees, especially in today’s volatile climate where tensions run high on issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict. However, on the other hand, I can’t help but think about the implications of silencing a voice, even if it holds controversial or extreme views.
The valedictorian in question was chosen based on her academic achievements, which is an impressive feat in itself.… Continue reading
The recent statement by Defense Secretary Austin claiming that the US has seen no evidence of Israel committing genocide has stirred up a whirlwind of controversy and debate. It’s a bold assertion that has sparked strong reactions from both sides of the aisle, with supporters and critics voicing their opinions loud and clear.
In the midst of all the noise, it’s essential to take a step back and analyze the situation with a critical eye. The notion that Israel is engaging in genocide is a serious accusation that cannot be taken lightly. It’s a delicate matter that requires careful consideration and a thorough examination of the facts.… Continue reading
The recent statement by the Pentagon claiming that there is no evidence of unfolding genocide in Gaza has sparked a flurry of reactions and opinions from various quarters. While some may view this as a comprehensive investigation, others are quick to dismiss it as a mere attempt to cover up grave human rights violations. The Leahy Law, designed to prevent US foreign aid from reaching security forces involved in human rights abuses, seems to be conveniently sidestepped in this scenario. It raises the question of whether the US’s foreign policy priorities align more with safeguarding interests rather than upholding human rights.… Continue reading
The recent Israeli airstrike that killed aid workers from World Central Kitchen in Gaza has left a bitter taste in my mouth. The fact that chefs, who selflessly dedicated their efforts to feeding starving people in a famine-torn region, were targeted and killed is beyond comprehension. The senseless loss of innocent lives in such a brutal manner is nothing short of a tragedy that cannot be overlooked or forgiven.
President Biden’s supposed outrage at this horrific attack feels hollow and empty when his administration continues to provide military funding and aid to Israel. Actions speak louder than words, and until there is a tangible shift in policy to withhold weapons that are used to perpetrate such atrocities, any expressions of outrage fall flat.… Continue reading
As an American citizen, the recent news of the U.S. approving more bombs to Israel on the same day as the World Central Kitchen strikes leaves me feeling a mix of anger, frustration, and helplessness. It is disheartening to see that the U.S. has been supplying Israel with the means of destruction for decades, even in the midst of atrocities and intentional acts of violence against civilian aid workers.
While there are complex political agreements and historical ties that might justify these actions, at the end of the day, it is clear that innocent lives are being lost and communities are being torn apart.… Continue reading
I couldn’t help but feel a sense of frustration and disappointment when I read about the tense call between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It has become increasingly evident that words alone are not enough to bring about the necessary change. The White House highlighted the critical nature of stabilizing the situation, protecting innocent civilians, and addressing the humanitarian crisis, but it seems like a broken record of empty promises and unfulfilled demands.
The reality is that actions speak louder than words, and in this case, the actions are woefully insufficient.… Continue reading
The recent news of Biden threatening to change US policy if Netanyahu fails to protect Gaza civilians has sparked a whirlwind of reactions and opinions. As tensions rise in the Middle East, it’s crucial to assess the significance of such statements and question the true intentions behind them. Will Biden follow through with these threats, or are they simply empty words to appease a certain voter base?
Netanyahu’s nonchalant attitude towards America’s influence is alarming. His disregard for US advice and willingness to bleed the country dry for his own political gain is a clear indication of his priorities. The relationship between the US and Israel has long been a complex one, with the US providing significant support to Israel over the years.… Continue reading
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, shocking revelations have come to light regarding the tactics employed by the terrorist organization. A recently uncovered Hamas document has shed light on the fact that they have been hiding casualties and blaming failed rocket launches on Israel. This deceitful behavior is not surprising to many, given the track record of Hamas when it comes to spreading propaganda and misinformation.
One of the most egregious examples of this duplicitous behavior was when Hamas bombed the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital by mistake and then shamelessly attempted to blame Israel for the attack.… Continue reading
The news that Spain will recognize Palestinian statehood by July does not come without its fair share of controversy and skepticism. As I ponder this decision, I can’t help but wonder about the implications and potential repercussions of such a move. One of the key questions that comes to mind is, where will Spain recognize the borders as being, and which government of Palestine will they acknowledge as legitimate?
The issue of recognizing Palestine’s statehood raises concerns about political posturing and the idea of being politically correct. It’s interesting to note that Spain does not even accept Catalonia’s independence, which begs the question of consistency in their approach to matters of sovereignty.… Continue reading
The recent news of Hamas rejecting the US hostage deal compromise because it ‘doesn’t meet their demands’ has left me feeling frustrated and disheartened. How can an organization like Hamas, which claims to champion the Palestinian cause, continuously put the lives of innocent people at risk by rejecting what seems like a fair exchange?
The offer made by Israel, to release 800 prisoners in exchange for 40 Israeli hostages, seems like a genuine attempt to reach a compromise and bring peace to the region. However, Hamas’s refusal to accept this deal raises questions about their true intentions and priorities. Are they more interested in prolonging the conflict and maximizing civilian suffering than in finding a peaceful resolution?… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker