In this much-debated opinion piece in the New York Times, Anthony Lerman argues that because embracing the Israel of today as a Jewish state implies policies of exclusion and discrimination, it has become impossible for diaspora Jews to be both liberal and Zionist.
Not so, responds Rabbi Josh Weinberg, a declared liberal Zionist."I am not at a crossroads ... I take pride in the notion that we do not turn our back on Israel, even though we may be at times critical." Adam Shedletzky likewise, in this Globe and Mail article, sees no conflict, and calls on diaspora Jews "to respectfully and strategically speak out."
Daniel Gordis, responding from Israel, finds the debate ill-timed and irrelevant.
"When the IDF killed Hamas men who had come through the tunnels and found them equipped with weapons, handcuffs and injectable sedatives, it was clear that the movement’s intent was to kill as many Israelis as they could, then kidnap others and take them to Gaza. That, more than anything, struck horror so deep into the hearts of Israelis that, for the most part, internal politics have disappeared. ..."
"Let there be no mistake – this is a battle for Israel’s survival. Some people get that, many do not."
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