Medea Benjamin, founder of the anti-war organization CodePink and American Jewish activist, called the situation in Gaza a “genocide” and called on the United States to end its support for Israel.
Benjamin described the current situation in the Gaza Strip as a “systematic attempt to destroy the Palestinian population” and spoke of “genocide” and “ethnic cleansing”.
She stressed that the ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza have made life unbearable for Palestinians and are forcing them to flee their homes. “What we are witnessing in Gaza is not just a conflict; it is a planned campaign to wipe out an entire people. The world must recognize this as genocide and act accordingly,” Benjamin said.
USA betrays its own values
As Benjamin reflected on her experience of being arrested during pro-Palestinian demonstrations in the United States, she criticized the U.S. government for its unwavering support of Israel.
She acknowledged that while some American politicians question this support, the majority continue to support Israel despite the atrocities committed. Benjamin argued that a “complete break” with the Israeli government is necessary.
Benjamin called for an immediate halt to US arms sales to Israel, saying: “The US government’s unwavering support of Israel despite blatant human rights violations is a betrayal of our values. It is time to stop funding this genocide with our tax dollars.”
Netanyahu must be brought to justice
Regarding the possibility that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could be held accountable for his actions, Benjamin expressed skepticism, pointing out that “powerful nations like the United States often evade responsibility for their own war crimes.”
“It is often difficult for those in power to obtain justice, but we must not stop fighting to hold Netanyahu and his government accountable for the atrocities against the Palestinian people,” Benjamin said.
Turkish diplomacy wants to stop genocide
Benjamin called for a global grassroots movement to put pressure on governments, particularly to end trade and military relations with Israel. “The majority of people in the world have lost respect for Israel and now view it as a genocidal state,” she noted.
She also stressed the importance of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement in isolating Israel and putting pressure on Israel to offer a genuine solution that grants the Palestinians their rightful freedom and sovereignty.
Benjamin praised Turkey’s efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza and support the Palestinian cause at the United Nations. “Turkey has shown leadership by standing by the Palestinians, but it can do more. Unlike the openly biased United States, we hope that Turkey will emerge as a true mediator.”
