As the genocide in Gaza approaches 11 months, the fear of all out war between Iran (aided by Hezbollah and Houthi forces) and the U.S. (aligned with the West) has become a major talking point. Despite the crocodile tears regarding an escalation in the wider region, North American leaders continue to act in the most hawkish manner possible. The Left more broadly, must continue to fight as the powers that be attack the voices at home who challenge the war criminals abroad.
American response
No matter Israel’s actions, the U.S. has defended them every step of the way. Choosing to discuss red lines drawn with invisible ink, instead of materially addressing Israel’s aggression. Following the assassination of Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken specifically called for restraint from Iran.
Similar calls were made in April after an Israeli airstrike destroyed an Iranian consulate in Syria, leaving seven people dead in the process. Haniyeh’s assassination was an embarrassment for Iran, if it does not respond it may invite further attacks. If it responds it risks further escalation.
Instead of trying to honestly approach a ceasefire, the U.S. diverts attention to concern over Iranian aggression. Their most recent attempts have somehow taken another step back. Following the last round of negotiations, officials from Egypt expressed doubt at the prospects of a deal. At best, the latest ”bridging proposal” will only bring momentary peace in exchange for continued IDF presence in the Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors.
American extravagance and arms embargoes
Julius Nyerere has described American politics as “a one-party state but, with typical American extravagance, they have two of them.”
Unfortunately, it appears that neither party is interested in a ceasefire deal. The latest call from Democrats is for yet more patience, as Kamala Harris’s campaign is supposed to bring newfound enthusiasm and hope. Unfortunately, there is no reason to believe that a Harris government will change course in regards to Palestine.
While speaking at a rally in Michigan, Harris patronized Pro-Palestine protestors, who were calling for an end to violence, by telling them, “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that.” This was followed by confirming that she will not pursue an arms embargo, which appears to be the only action that would ensure a ceasefire. Even the request for symbolic actions, such as having a Palestinian individual speak at the Democratic convention, has been shot down. Instead, the DNC allotted time for Tony West (Harris’s Brother-in-law), chief legal officer for Uber, to espouse the true values of the Democrats.
When it comes down to it, the Democrats and the Republicans are both serving the interests of the business class. Canadians know all too well about the Liberal’s forward an agenda–that is in essence identical to the Conservatives–relying on the populace viewing them as the more congenial arm of capital.
Cloaks, daggers and warheads
In early July, Lancet produced a study conservatively estimating that 186,000 Palestinians would die as a result of the conflict. The U.S. has responded by providing $20 billion worth of weapons to Israel. Our ability to stop deals involving the U.S. is limited, but this doesn’t mean we are helpless. We can ensure that our government, regardless of who it may be, does not use backdoor deals to provide arms to those committing war crimes.
Reports from mainstream media will show that the Canadian government hasn’t sold arms to Israel in the last four months. However, this is a farce. Recent reports indicate that many of the arms, equalling approximately $60 million worth, included in the latest U.S. package, were manufactured in Canada. Currently, the Canadian government can keep the sales of these arms out of public eyes through the Five-Eyes Partnership. Through this agreement, Canada provides 49 percent of all exports to its North American imperial partner.
Maple syrup and socialism
As pressure mounts on the imperialist powers, attacks on the Left will only intensify. Look no further that the onslaught of attacks on Fred Hahn as an example.
This fight is both abroad and at home. We must assist our allies abroad so that we can demonstrate our united capabilities. Peace will allow us to tackle attacks at home, such as the vitriol levied at migrant workers. The only way to make society work for those who do all the work is if we do so, together.
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