Israel Boycotts Reps. Omar and Tlaib

What’s the problem?

Washington DC, March 26, 2017. Palestinian Rights Activists gathered to protest the annual DC convention of AIPAC (America Israel Public Affairs Committee). There was a rally in front of the White House and a march to the Convention Center. (photo: Susan Melkisethian)

“Israel has decided- we won’t enable the members of Congress [Rep. Omar and Rep. Tlaib) to enter the country. We won’t allow those who deny our right to exist in this world to enter Israel. In principle, this is a very justified decision.” — Tzipi Hotovely, Israeli Foreign Minister. August 15, 2019

If someone had openly and proudly expressed a desire to see your house wiped off the map; if they had professed the deepest sympathies towards violent extremists who wanted to exterminate you and your entire family, would you let them come over for dinner?

Let’s say they also wanted to bring leadership representatives from the very group of violent extremists who have been routinely attacking your house- and ignoring your peace offerings- for decades?

Indeed, Rep. Rashida Tlaib and Rep. Ilhan Omar planned to visit Israel with members of the Palestinian authority in tow. The idea that this would somehow be acceptable is itself quite ludicrous.

But, predictably, the reaction from the left has been outrage as Democrats and presidential hopefuls en masse have rushed to condemn the decision, Netanyahu and, as always, Donald Trump.

Also predictably, nary a word of criticism towards Reps. Tlaib and Omar.