Labeling settlement products is a legitimate way for Israel’s largest trade partner to make clear its objection to the growing settlements which, in both the European and American view, are endangering the possibility of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Differentiating between the legitimate State of Israel and the illegitimate settlements counters those who would use Israel’s ongoing occupation of the West Bank to de-legitimize the entire country. It is not a boycott of Israel, or even of the settlements, and should not be treated as one.Continue Reading

The surest way to take the wind out of the BDS sails would be to work diligently to achieve those goals, and act against efforts that prevent them. An independent, sovereign and viable Palestine sharing peace, trade and security with Israel removes the impetus for both BDS and the often overly aggressive tactics being employed against it.Continue Reading

the key will be to find ways to bolster the confidence of the Israeli public in a way Netanyahu cannot deny while preserving the Iran deal and trying to revive some hope for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This won’t be accomplished because AIPAC was weakened in the Iran nuclear fight. Instead, it can come about because progressive forces were strengthened and unified and found smart ways to counter a lobby that is both well-funded and very good at what it does.Continue Reading