While this is not the first time that legitimate criticism of Israel has been dismissed as something else, we are shocked. Boundaries are being crossed. Accusing anything and anyone critical of Israel’s actions of anti-Semitism and support for Hamas is an oft-used method. However, it is nonsense. It is a dangerous frame that gets too much space in the House of Representatives and national media.
For many years in the Netherlands, Israel and Palestine have been working for peace. The accusations are an attempt to counter legitimate criticism of Israel, with the aim of silencing critical citizens and organizations.
Moreover, it distracts attention from what is really at stake: Israel’s plausible genocide in Gaza. In an article from the Israeli newspaper the Jerusalem Post, referring to a report by the Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism, it is stated that PAX supports pro-Hamas activities and advocates for a complete embargo against Israel. Dutch newspapers De Telegraaf en De Limburger published articles with similar content.These are false accusations. PAX consistently condemns all violence, including Hamas violence. Civilians must always be protected. Weapons do not contribute to peace in the region. We therefore call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Israel commits large-scale war crimes and human rights violations in Gaza and on the West Bank. We therefore support various measures against Israel, including an arms embargo.
PAX is against occupation, settlements, apartheid and war crimes. In doing so, we follow international law. Our statements are in line with UN experts and respected human rights organizations. Equating this with support for pro-Hamas causes is a dangerous frame that crosses every line of integrity. We appeal to our own government not to be drawn into false framing and to uphold our democratic values.
