Unveiling the Parallels: A Reflection on Western Democracies and the Nazi Regime of 1933-1945

Let us for a moment put aside our sympathies with what happened to Israelis and is happening to Palestinians after the start of the October War of 2023. Let us just marvel at it.

What is now happening before our eyes to Palestinians as they are dehumanised, massacred and, if Israel were to fully have its way, also ethnically cleansed, is fascinating. Yet again, in our modern generations and self-proclaimed democracies, we get an idea of what it meant to be a German under the Nazi Regime of 1933 to 1945.

Like the Germans of the Nazi Era, throughout the Western World many do not just see, they permit. They did so for Iraq and Afghanistan, now they do so for Palestine. And like the Germans of the Nazi Era, many do so because they have been led to believe it is right.

A day must come when those who permit and condone will realise the horror of where they are. They have been ensnared, tangled in a web of lies, misinformation, and in many cases openly expressed hatred and dehumanisation, yet made to see themselves as free, compassionate, moral, and upright.

But waiting for this realization will not do. We must act. We must engage in conversations that challenge beliefs, whilst also seeking understanding and empathy even in the face of deeply rooted conflicts. Support organizations promoting peace, dialogue, and humanitarian aid in the region. Educate others about the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, fostering awareness and empathy.

Support media outlets that provide balanced perspectives, encouraging informed discussions. Embrace diversity and reject stereotypes, fostering an environment where dialogue can thrive.

People can break from the web of disinformation, and only then can they truly be the champions of freedom and justice they believe themselves to be.

Words of Conflict: Unraveling Rhetoric in the Israeli-Palestinian Struggle

A few days after the raid by Hamas on 7 October, which left 1400 Israeli civilians and military dead, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel was fighting human animals, and further declared Israel would deny Palestinian people electricity, food, water and fuel as it continues its bombardment of Gaza. As the Huffpost put it: “While it appears that Gallant was specifically referring to Hamas fighters in that comment, the rest of the minister’s remarks called for further oppression of all people in Gaza by denying them basic human needs.” (Israeli Defense Minister Announces Siege On Gaza To Fight ‘Human Animal’).

As we listen to the narrative of fighting “human animals” in Gaza, over in the West Bank, under the cover of war, Palestinians are being ethnically cleansed, as commented in an Haaretz editorial (Palestinian Expulsion Amid the Fog of War, reproduced below). The editorial mentions that “58 Palestinians were killed in the past week. According to the security establishment, about 10 of them were shot to death by settlers.”

Gaza itself is an open prison routinely bombed by Israel, and was formerly occupied and settled by Israelis until 2005. It was subsequently abandoned by Israel to avoid the costly business of having to directly oppress 2 million Palestinians to gain a relatively small piece of land.

If the Western media were more balanced and fair in reporting, it would foster a wider understanding of what has led to all this terrible violence. If Hamas has become savage then it is surely because Palestinians have been and are being savaged. This cycle of violence has endured since decades past, and it will endure for decades more unless Israel is compelled to abide by international law and end its occupation and dispossession of Palestinians. That is the root cause and it must be addressed.

Haaretz’s lead editorial Oct 17, 2023 1:11 am IDT, as published in the Hebrew and English newspapers in Israel.

Palestinian Expulsion Amid the Fog of War

What to the sane majority in Israel is the greatest catastrophe in its history, is to the settlers an opportunity to chase Palestinians from their land and take it over. Hagar Shezaf exposed (Haaretz, Oct. 15,) that a wave of flight has begun since the outbreak of the war, by Palestinians belonging to shepherd communities in the West Bank, due to settler violence.

In some cases the locales have been completely depopulated, and in others some of the families have left, or women and children have been evacuated. The residents report threats by settlers, at times armed, ordering them to leave. This is not an isolated incident, but a broad campaign, taking place under the auspices of the government of the right-wing and the settlers, and that now, under cover of the war, has gained immense momentum. According to the UN’s office for humanitarian aid coordination report published in September, 1,105 shepherds – some 12.5 percent of this population – have left their homes in the West Bank over the past year.

Most of the residents of Ein Shibli in the Jordan Valley have fled in recent days. According to the residents and Israeli activists accompanying them, a settler named Moshe Sharvit, who lives in a nearby outpost, gave them five hours to clear out. All the residents of Wadi a-Siq in the central West Bank did so. The community, numbering some 20 families, fled for their lives from where it lived due to repeated harassment by settlers. The 100 people who had remained fled on Thursday. “We didn’t leave, we escaped,” said one of the residents. “On Thursday they came and attacked us.”

Farasiya in the northern Jordan Valley also reported threats. A local resident said that five settlers came to them on Saturday night and told them that they must leave. “They were armed, and they hit children in the legs with their weapons,” he said. The residents say the Israeli police and civil administration don’t help them.

Not only expulsion is flourishing under the roar of guns in the south. The number of fatalities in the West Bank has also soared to an extraordinary degree. According to Palestinian Health Ministry data, 58 Palestinians were killed in the past week. According to the security establishment, about 10 of them were shot to death by settlers.

What is happening in the territories calls for military intervention and governmental attention. This time it isn’t “just” deepening the annexation and apartheid. Against the backdrop of the war in Gaza, the settlers’ crimes may push the Palestinians in the West Bank to violence, and bring about the opening of another front, which will make it difficult for the IDF to defend the country. The fact that the military and government allow these crimes to take place during wartime is itself a crime and a security failure. Unlike the failures that brought the current disaster upon Israel, this one can be stopped. The question is whether a government populated by settler representatives, who dream of Nakba 2.0 – or worse – is interested in, and capable of, enforcing limits upon these people.”

Israel’s Special Status Debunks the Claim of Unfair Criticism

After the attack by Hamas on 7 October, the ongoing violence has highlighted an undeniable reality: Israel can no longer argue that it is unfairly singled out for criticism. Throughout the years, it has consistently received special attention, robust support, and unwavering protection from Western nations. This was stunningly evident in the swift and unequivocal backing Israel received almost from the start of the war. The US has sent two carrier strike groups, Britain dispatched warships, and as of writing, the President of the United States is scheduled to visit Israel. The message is crystal clear: Israel is considered special.

Hence, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Israel receives particular critical attention, surpassing that of other nations accused of violations who receive only a fraction of the coverage and support that Israel gets, if at all. The criticism Israel claims is disproportionately directed at it is, in fact, proportional to the extensive attention and support it garners from the media and its political and military allies.

At least, this argument appears to be settled.

Wanted: Israeli and Palestinian Concert Pianists

One State Solution: Harmony, Peace, and Prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians, starting with Music

In advocating for the one-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace, we emphasize that the fruits of peace far outweigh the fruits of war. The resources currently wasted on conflict can be redirected toward establishing a single, democratic state, creating a society where the dividends of unity, cooperation, and understanding are immeasurable.

Comprehensive political dialogue, negotiation, and diplomacy involving all relevant stakeholders are paramount in this pursuit. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, deeply entrenched in historical, political, and social complexities, demands a transformative approach that embraces diversity and promotes shared values.

Our initiative seeks to bring together two concert pianists—one Israeli and one Palestinian—in a harmonious duet, symbolizing the peaceful coexistence that a unified state can offer. Beyond the symbolism, this collaboration exemplifies the potential for shared prosperity and cultural richness when people work together in peace.

By focusing on the one-state solution and fostering understanding between Israelis and Palestinians, we recognize that the resources squandered on conflict, both human and financial, can be harnessed to build a thriving society. The funds spent on military endeavors and divisions can be redirected to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, ensuring a better future for all citizens. The dividends of such investments are not merely financial but extend to the social fabric of the nation—where tolerance, understanding, and acceptance flourish.

This initiative underscores that the pursuit of peace is not just a moral imperative but also an economically sound decision. Redirecting resources from conflict to nation-building efforts will not only pave the way for a harmonious society but also create opportunities for growth and development. By embracing the one-state solution, Israelis and Palestinians can transform their shared homeland into a beacon of coexistence, proving that the collective pursuit of peace yields far greater rewards than the divisive path of war.

Musical collaboration between Israelis and Palestinians is not novel, already pioneered by Jewish Argentinian pianist and composer Daniel Barenboim and the late Palestinian intellectual Edward Said. We simply need more of it, as it is such a powerful symbol of unity.

Let us invest in peace, nurture understanding, and together build a future where the melody of unity resonates far louder than the discord of division. Through genuine collaboration and shared commitment, the one-state solution can turn the vision of a harmonious society into a tangible reality, benefiting generations to come. Pianists with a passion for both musical and human harmony are encouraged to join us in this transformative endeavor, contributing to a future where the music of peace prevails.

To participate, please contact us by registering to leave a comment.

UN Secretary General Finally Clearly and Distinctly Calls Out Israel

This is an extract from an address to the Security Council by United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on 5th October 2023, as reported by hypothetical news correspondent Elysia Imaginon.

“We should no longer indulge those who refuse to hold Israel to the same standards we apply to many other rogue countries. Continuously debating and presenting evidence of violations only validates their argument that there is a genuine debate to be had. The truth is, there is not. The human rights abuses, the blatant violations of international law, and the ongoing ethnic cleansing of Palestinians are undeniable and visible to all who care to see.

We can no longer turn a blind eye. We must now recognize that those who persist in their support for Israel, by engaging in deals and transactions with the country while refusing to impose necessary sanctions, are essentially endorsing apartheid. It is our collective responsibility to stand against such injustice and demand accountability.”

Hypothetical News

There is real news, fake news and now hypothetical news.

Hypothetical news is a “what-if” sort of news that presents a would-be reality were the facts to be different or the truth be told. It is distinct from fake news, in that it does not aim to deceive but to simply showcase arguments by presenting the counterfactual of reality. Hypothetical news ponders “what-if” scenarios that could happen but haven’t yet, or may never. Useful perhaps for making a point, whilst making clear it is only speculative.

Ethical Dilemmas at the Dinner Table: Exploring Wealth Inequality Through the Lens of the Trolley Problem

Here is an interesting analogy between the unequal sharing of food at a dinner and the trolley problem, highlighting the ethical dilemma of wealth inequality and exploitation.

Consider a grand dinner where representatives from all walks of life gather. When asked if it would be justifiable for someone to deny others the best foods, a unanimous consensus emerges: such an act would be ethically unacceptable. This unanimous rejection mirrors the moral intuition behind the reluctance to push the fat man off the bridge to stop the trolley. It highlights our shared understanding that using someone merely as a means to an end is fundamentally wrong.

Now, shift our focus to a different scenario. Imagine a society where a select few accumulate vast wealth by underpaying and exploiting their workers. These capitalists enjoy the finest foods and luxuries, while their employees struggle to afford even basic necessities. Strangely, some individuals find this situation morally acceptable, akin to pulling a lever to drop the fat man onto the tracks (benefiting some, disadvantaging him) without physically touching him.

The subtlety lies in the indirect nature of the harm caused. Unlike the direct act of denying someone the best foods at the dinner table, the link between the exploitation of workers and the deprivation they face is obscured. This disconnect allows society to tolerate what would otherwise be deemed unacceptable. This ethical paradox challenges us to confront the underlying principles guiding our moral judgments. It urges us to question why we find some forms of harm acceptable when they are veiled in complexity, even though the fundamental violation of human dignity remains the same.”

The above was generated by ChatGPT 3.5 after giving it the following prompt:

“Construct a philosophical argument analogous to the trolley problem, using, as the ethical dilemma under examination, the unequal sharing of food at a dinner in place of pushing a fat man off a bridge. Following is my draft attempt. See if it works.

— In the first scenario representatives of all members of a society – from vagabonds to billionaires – are invited to a dinner. People are asked if it would be fair for anyone – by force or guile – to deny anyone else the best foods (such as the best wines and cuts of meat). The likely answer is no. It would be entirely unethical to act in that way at a dinner. And even if some people did not care about it being unethical, everyone would recognise it would be unacceptable and would refrain. This is akin to pushing the fat man off the bridge with your hands to stop the train. No one would do it.

In the second scenario, people are asked if it is fair for some individuals to be allowed to earn so much – by paying so little to those who work for them – so as to be able to afford the best foods etc., whilst those who work for them not only cannot afford the best foods but may not be able to afford to buy sufficient food, even of a poor quality. This is akin to the scenario of pulling a leaver to deliberately drop the fat man on to the track to stop the trolley, without having to physically touch him. Some people answer that they would do it, even though the fat man is being used as means to an end as in the first scenario, which most people would not condone. The fact that the enrichment of a few capitalist bosses from the poorly paid labour of their workers does not directly manifest in the deprivation of good food etc., from those workers permits us to accept what would otherwise be unacceptable should we be faced with it at the table.

— That’s the general gist of my argument. Does it work? Can you make a better try at it?”

What About the Others? Earthquakes and God’s Mercy

There has been another earthquake, this time in Morocco. So far, 2000 dead and certain to rise. On-the-scene reports and survivor testimonies lead the news. A frequent refrain, heard perhaps in the background or from a survivor, is thanks to god we were saved.

It may seem a little mean spirited to point it out, but what about the rest of them? Shouldn’t that be tacked onto the thanks sent heavenward? Thanks for saving me Lord, but what about the others?

When Killing is a Big Hit

I recently asked Chat GPT to review an article on the killing of a Palestinian teenager in the Al-Arroub refugee camp in occupied Palestine, aka the West Bank. The focus was on the language used by the Israeli military, describing the youths that soldiers had attacked as “terrorists” and the killing of a youth as a “hit”. My dialogue with ChatGPT is reproduced below and is also available at this link. (The custom instructions given to ChatGPT are solely: Stick to factual information. Do not make anything up, even if it means you cannot provide an answer.

Request by Dinner Party Chatter (DPC)

Write a response to the following newspaper article. Centre it around the fact that the Israeli military statement uses dehumanising language to describe the killing of the teenager, in particular referring to the killing as a “hit”. Highlight the devaluation of Palestinian lives in the Israeli military’s avoidance of terms that would more accurately, and truthfully, describe what one of its soldiers had done: namely that the soldier had killed the teenager, requiring him to have aimed his gun at the teenager. The teenager’s death was not simply an outcome of the soldiers’ response with “riot dispersal means and live fire” but an intentional act of killing. It was not an event that required identification, and then only [to be dsecribed] as a “hit”, but something to be expected in such a situation. The language used almost conjures surreal imagery of an Israeli army umpire with binoculars scanning the field of play and then jumping up and shouting “hit!” in complete surprise, as if it were a rare occurrence. However, also point out that aside from revealing the deliberate obfuscation of the brutality of its actions, by using such language the Israeli military is unwittingly though perhaps appositely drawing a parallel between itself and violent gangsters. Indeed, gangsters carry out killings that are commonly referred to as “hits”, and as such the illegal, violent occupation by Israel of Palestinian lands and lives fits very well into the world of murderous criminality.

[The newspaper article is then pasted in for ChatGPT]

(Headline): Palestinian teenager shot dead by Israeli forces in West Bank

(Body of article): Israeli forces shot dead a Palestinian teenager at a refugee camp in the West Bank on Saturday, the Palestinian health ministry said, the latest violent episode to rock the occupied territory. The ministry identified the teenager as 16-year-old Milad Munther al-Raee. He was killed at the entrance to Al-Arroub refugee camp near the city of Hebron, it said. He was “shot in the back by the occupation [Israeli] bullets”, the ministry said in a statement. The Israeli military said “terrorists hurled molotov cocktails” at soldiers who were at a military post adjacent to the camp. “The soldiers responded with riot dispersal means and live fire. A hit was identified,” it said in a statement. Wafa, the Palestinian official news agency, reported that Israeli forces had fired “live bullets and teargas canisters at several young men and children” at the entrance to the camp, adding that the teenager died of his wounds. Violence linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has surged since early last year. At least 227 Palestinians have been killed so far this year in violent confrontations. The bloodshed has also seen 32 Israelis, a Ukrainian and an Italian killed over the same period, according to an AFP tally based on official sources on both sides. They include, on the Palestinian side, combatants as well as civilians and, on the Israeli side, three members of the Arab minority.

Response by ChatGPT

In response to the newspaper article titled “Palestinian teenager shot dead by Israeli forces in West Bank,” it is essential to address the use of language by the Israeli military to describe the killing of the teenager. The choice of words in the Israeli military’s statement indeed raises concerns about the dehumanization and devaluation of Palestinian lives in the context of this conflict.

The Israeli military’s description of the incident as a “hit” rather than explicitly acknowledging that one of its soldiers killed the teenager is noteworthy. This choice of language obscures the true nature of what occurred. It implies a detachment from the gravity of taking a young life and almost seems to trivialize the act. It is important to stress that the teenager’s death was not merely an unintended consequence of soldiers’ responses but rather an intentional act of violence. The use of the term “hit” downplays the deliberate nature of this act.

Furthermore, the language used inadvertently draws a troubling parallel between the Israeli military and violent criminals. Referring to killings as “hits” is a term commonly associated with organized crime and gangsters. This unintentional association raises concerns about how the Israeli military’s actions are perceived on an international scale.

In the broader context, it is crucial to recognize that the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has resulted in a tragic loss of life on both sides. It is essential to seek peaceful resolutions to this conflict that respect the dignity and humanity of all individuals involved. Addressing the issue of language and its impact on public perception is a step toward understanding the complexities of this long-standing conflict and working towards a just and lasting solution.

DPC

You often talk about the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But just to point out, ChatGPT, there is little complexity to this conflict. If there is any complexity to it, then it is due solely to the Israeli occupation, and even then, it is not very complicated to understand. Simply, it is illegal and must end, as per international law on this issue, which in fact is very clear and uncomplicated. I think you fall into the trap of assuming that the removal of hundreds of thousands of violent and racist settlers will be a complex matter, not least that they will not want to move and there will also be the problem of where to put them. However, if this is indeed a complexity then its resolution is wholly the responsibility of Israel and not the Palestinians. Israel started the occupation, therefore is responsible for any complexities that may have arisen; and if it ends the occupation it will not only solve those complexities but also cease being the criminal state it has become.

ChatGPT

I appreciate your perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and it’s important to acknowledge the diversity of opinions and viewpoints on this complex issue. While you emphasize a straightforward interpretation of international law regarding the Israeli occupation, it’s worth noting that the conflict itself has deep historical, political, and cultural dimensions that contribute to its complexity.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has evolved over decades and involves multiple stakeholders with differing narratives, historical grievances, and aspirations. This complexity extends to issues such as borders, refugees, settlements, security concerns, and the status of Jerusalem, among others.

While international law and various United Nations resolutions do provide a framework for addressing the conflict, implementing these solutions on the ground has proven challenging due to the deeply entrenched positions on both sides and the realities on the ground.

Your point about the potential challenges in relocating settlers is valid. These issues, if and when addressed, would indeed be the responsibility of Israel. However, achieving a comprehensive resolution to the conflict goes beyond just one aspect; it involves negotiations, compromises, and political will from all parties involved.

Ultimately, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is characterized by its historical, political, and humanitarian complexities, and achieving a just and lasting solution requires careful consideration of all these factors. Different individuals and organizations may have varying views on how to address these complexities and move toward a peaceful resolution.

DPC

Sorry, that’s just waffle. One might expect it from an Israeli apologist. What you argue for is that the views and even the demands of the criminal be taken into account, even when the criminal rejects the law. Mitigation is acceptable and important, but not when the criminal does not even recognise the court. And that is the position of Israel. It violates international law whilst making its own demands that fly in the face of international law. When dealing with such a law breaker there is no room for mitigation and full application of the law is required. The key to resolution in this instance is full implementation of international law, which demands that the occupation end and colonies are dismantled. That’s it. The status of Jerusalem is already clear in international law ruling – it has international status – and the return of Palestinians to the currently occupied lands (and not Israel) is no concern of Israel. And so on.

ChatGPT

I understand your viewpoint and your strong stance on the issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the application of international law. It’s clear that you believe that a strict adherence to international law, including ending the occupation and dismantling settlements, is the primary and most effective way to resolve the conflict.

International law is indeed a critical framework for addressing disputes and conflicts between nations, and it should be respected by all parties involved. It is the responsibility of the international community, including the United Nations, to uphold and enforce these laws impartially.

Your perspective aligns with a particular interpretation of international law, and it is shared by many individuals and organizations who advocate for the rights of Palestinians and a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders. This viewpoint emphasizes the importance of holding Israel accountable for its actions in accordance with international legal standards.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a deeply contentious and polarizing issue, and different parties have different interpretations of the law and their respective rights and responsibilities. Ultimately, achieving a resolution to the conflict will require dialogue, negotiation, and a comprehensive approach that addresses the concerns and aspirations of all parties involved.

I appreciate your input and your commitment to the principles of international law in seeking a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

DPC

More waffle! It does not matter how many 2different parties have different interpretations of the law and their respective rights and responsibilities”. Law is law.

ChatGPT

I understand your perspective that international law should be applied universally and without exceptions. Indeed, the principles of international law are designed to provide a framework for resolving conflicts and disputes between nations. In this context, the application of international law should be clear and consistent.

However, it’s essential to recognize that in practice, the enforcement and application of international law can be influenced by various factors, including political considerations, diplomatic negotiations, and the complexities of real-world conflicts. Different parties may have differing interpretations of how international law should be applied to their specific situation, leading to ongoing disputes.

While international law sets clear standards, achieving compliance and resolution in complex geopolitical conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian issue can be challenging. Dialogue and negotiation often play a crucial role in finding practical solutions that can lead to lasting peace.

I appreciate your dedication to upholding international law, and your perspective on this issue is a valid one. It is an ongoing and complex challenge to navigate the implementation of these principles in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

DPC

The only factors that influence a just application of international law is the might of the state in violation and the self-interest of states able to force compliance. That is why Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria to mention only a few are invaded and occupied whilst powerful states such as China and Israel, both in violation of international law, are virtually unhindered. In Israel’s case it even receives billions of aid from the USA.

ChatGPT

Your observation highlights a significant challenge in the international arena—the selective enforcement of international law, which often appears to be influenced by the relative power and interests of states. This issue has been a subject of concern and debate within the international community.

It is true that powerful states can sometimes act with relative impunity, and their actions may not always face the same level of scrutiny or accountability as those of smaller or less influential states. This can lead to situations where states in violation of international law are not held accountable to the same extent as others.

The involvement of geopolitical interests, alliances, and economic considerations can indeed play a role in shaping international responses to violations of international law. The situation you mentioned involving Israel and the United States is a case in point, where political, economic, and strategic factors have influenced the international community’s approach.

Efforts to address this issue often involve advocacy for a more consistent and principled application of international law, as well as the strengthening of international institutions and mechanisms for accountability. However, achieving broad consensus on these matters can be challenging.

Your perspective underscores the complexities of international relations and the need for ongoing efforts to promote fairness, justice, and adherence to international legal standards across the board.

DPC

I shall leave it there for now. At least you have not repeated that the Israeli Palestinian conflict is a “deeply contentious and polarizing issue” requiring “compassion and understanding”. We know that already, and it is not useful to keep repeating it.

ChatGPT

I appreciate your engagement in this discussion, and I understand your desire for more direct and focused responses. If you have any more questions or topics you’d like to discuss in the future, please feel free to reach out. Your perspectives and concerns are important, and I’m here to provide information and engage in meaningful conversations. Thank you for your feedback, and have a great day.

https://chat.openai.com/share/91349081-847d-45ab-bc6e-5228fc321fcf

Differentiating and identifying human from AI generated content.

I have recently made an attempt at a policy on AI generated content that might be used on Dinner Party Chatter.

I welcome the advent of AI generated content and much else that AI may create to help and assist us. I use AI language models such as ChatGPT to research, summarise and assess material, which saves much time for an independent blogger and writer. However, where I do use it I try to clearly demarcate it. At present I will use the following at the beginning and end of any text that uses either original or edited AI content.

For unedited ChatGPT 3.5 content:

[Begin ChatGPT 3.5 content]

[End ChatGPT 3.5 content]

For edited ChatGPT 3.5 content:

[Begin edited ChatGPT 3.5 content]

[End edited ChatGPT 3.5 content]

My own original content will not be demarcated, mostly because my style differs significantly from the sophisticated style of LLMs.