Shelly Greenstein: Biden, Congressional delegation must impose arms embargo on Israel

Growing up Jewish in Massachusetts, the topic of the Holocaust was one explored and discussed frequently, both at Hebrew school and also in the public schools I attended. I was haunted by the story of Anne Frank, and by the images of the skeletal figures behind bars in the concentration camps. But mostly I was disturbed that it actually happened. I couldn’t wrap my head around the idea that average “decent” people did not rise up to put an end to what seemed to be the most horrific chapter in our recent history.

Fast-forward to 2023-24 and we now watch daily footage of what looks like an active genocide in Gaza that would not be possible without U.S. weapons and diplomatic support. And once again, I cannot comprehend how decent people stay silent in the face of such monstrosities that are designed to destroy the conditions of life for Palestinians in Gaza.

We call on the Biden administration and our representatives in Congress to impose an arms embargo on Israel. The boycotting of Israeli products is another way we can push back against this violence. Locally, I am proud of our efforts to encourage the River Valley Co-op to live up to its mission as a just marketplace, stop selling products from Israel, until the Israeli government complies with international law.

Wear a pin for Palestine, call your reps to demand an arms embargo against Israel, and please urge the co-op to deshelf products made in Israel.

Shelly Greenstein

Easthampton