Western Powers 'Condemn' Israeli Settlements After First Checking Israel's Military Aid Requests
The story goes that these nations are very, very concerned, calling Israel's move a 'violation of international law'. This is excellent theatre, considering that these same governments have consistently supported Israeli governments who have expanded settlements for decades. In fact, since 1967, every single Israeli government has built settlements. The EU, UK, and US have issued over 100
'condemnations' of settlement activity since 2000, yet have collectively sent hundreds of billions in aid and military assistance. What's more effective: a stern rebuke or F-35 fighter jets? Critics have long noted this pattern of rhetorical disapproval coupled with material enablement. So, we're meant to believe that this time, their 'deep concern' will actually make a difference? It's almost as
if these non-binding statements are designed less to alter Israeli policy and more to placate their domestic audiences while the aid pipelines remain wide open. How many times does a 'violation' have to be condemned before it's actually… addressed? Or is 'condemn' just diplomatic parlance for 'we're officially on record, now where's that next arms deal bill?'