In the wake of the recent violence in Gaza, questions are being raised about the selective outrage displayed by protesters. While many have taken to the streets to express their support for Palestine and condemn Israel’s actions, there is a notable absence of similar protests for other conflicts around the world.
Since the October 7 pogrom by Hamas, which resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis, there has been a concerning increase in Jew-hatred. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations on US university campuses have seen expressions of support for Hamas, and even instances of mob-like behavior and threats against Jews, which have been tolerated or encouraged by faculty and administrations.
While the loss of innocent Palestinian lives is undoubtedly tragic, the protests that have emerged since the conflict began display a level of fury not seen in other conflicts, where the death toll and destruction have been far greater and have lasted longer. This raises the question of why these protests are so focused on Israel and why they do not evoke the same moral outrage for other conflicts.
For instance, since the Syrian civil war began in 2011, over 500,000 people, mostly civilians, have been killed by the Syrian regime. In Yemen, it is believed that as many as 400,000 people, including 70 percent children under the age of five, have died as a result of the ongoing war. Ethnic violence in West Darfur earlier this year resulted in the deaths of 10,000 people and the displacement of millions. Yet, there has been a far more muted response to these conflicts.
The conclusion that can be drawn is that Israel is held to a different standard. While innocent lives lost in other conflicts are tragic, the protests against Israel seem to be fueled by a combination of anti-Semitism, hatred of Israel, and support for Hamas, a designated terrorist organization that has vowed to destroy Israel.
It is important to recognize that Israel, like any nation, has an obligation to defend itself. The current war on Hamas is seen as a necessary measure for Israel’s survival and the safety of the region and the world. However, the question remains for those who protest against Israel: where were they when innocent lives were being lost in other conflicts?
The rise in anti-Semitic attacks in the US further highlights the motivations behind these protests. According to the Anti-Defamation League, incidents of anti-Semitism rose by about 400 percent compared to the same period last year. This suggests that the protests are driven by a combination of hatred towards Jews, Israel, and support for Hamas.
It is time to acknowledge the truth behind these protests and question the selective outrage displayed. While it is important to advocate for peace and lament the loss of innocent lives, it is equally important to apply consistent standards of moral outrage to conflicts around the world. Only then can we truly strive for a just and peaceful world.
