I am a retired 81-year-old history teacher and a U.S. Navy veteran. Regarding the horrific killing and maiming of 40,000+ Palestinians in Gaza, I stand with GEN Z in condemning the Israeli genocide, aided by Biden, Blinken, and Harris. As historian Howard Zinn once said, “There is no flag large enough to cover the shame of killing innocent people.” At the “Democratic” Convention, the delegates were yelling “USA, USA, USA.” The “USA” chant is a prime example of jingoism, of chauvinism, which saddens me immensely. It reminded me of Stephen Decateur’s quote: “Our country, right or wrong, may she always be in the right, but right or wrong, our country!”

If one is honest and informed, one would know that Israel is an undemocratic apartheid state. It violates international law on a daily basis. Some say that AIPAC controls our Congress which should alarm our citizenry. Why does Israel act as a rogue state? It does so because its biggest supporter, the U.S., sanctions it. Thus, Israel’s military, including the Occupation Forces, act with impunity as no one holds them accountable for their myriad human rights violations.

Should Palestinian violence be condemned? Yes, certainly, but Israeli oppression breeds more violence. The dehumanization and demonization of Palestinians creates more violence. When there is no hope for a better future, then some strike back, unfortunately. As a Veteran for Peace, I say, USA, be true to humanity.

Will Thomas

Auburn