A brave and necessary stand
It takes a lot of courage and a great sense of responsibility to go up against your country’s political system and the vast majority of citizens to criticize your country in time of war. We note the cowardice of billionaire owners of legendary US newspapers (notably the Washington Post and Los Angeles Times) as they contemplate the wrath of a Trump Restoration. In Greece, we have repeatedly seen how the need to “support our team” determines a “national stance” on foreign affairs. This pertains also to our attitude towards our government and party. Criticism from within is considered treason, as it shakes the confidence of friends and justifies the actions of enemies.
The publisher of Haaretz knew all this when, a few days ago, he reportedly said at a conference organized by his newspaper in London that the Israeli government is enforcing an “apartheid” regime on Palestinians. He spoke of “Palestinian freedom fighters that Israel calls ‘terrorists.’” Amos Schocken, 79, has been publisher of the left-wing, liberal newspaper for many years. His grandfather bought the paper in 1935 (it was established in 1919). It has never shirked from speaking of the rights of Palestinians, criticizing the conditions under which they live. The slaughter of Israeli civilians by Hamas on October 7, 2023 and Israel’s overwhelming response in Gaza (now reaching Lebanon, Syria and Iran) have made such criticism even less welcome than before. The Netanyahu government’s immediate response was to sever ties with the newspaper. This entails a loss of advertising revenue from state entities, among other things.
Anyone who has met Schocken will understand that this laconic, austere man will not abdicate his responsibilities to evade the consequences of speaking out. He, the newspaper, and his other businesses will pay the price of their critical stance. This is the price, and the essence, of freedom – to tell the truth even when this shakes our own side and hurts us. This is how we correct course. This is the only way to allow a ray of hope for reconciliation in a time full of rage, despair and pain.
