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PEACE IN MIDDLE EAST VS. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Wouldn't it be great if life were a collection of clearly marked experiences, this one being clearly "right" and this one being clearly
"wrong"? Well, when it comes to ecological questions, there are few issues that are so clear.
Quite frequently, ecological questions as viewed from Jewish perspectives involve dilemmas – situations in which two or more values come into conflict. Every time we update our web, we will offer you a new eco-dilemma to consider. And, we will post your responses at the end of each month. Be sure to email me at to let me know what you think. And check back periodically to see what other people are saying.
All of us would agree that achieving peace in the Middle East is essential to the future of Israel. Important strides toward this goal have
been achieved with Israel's Arab neighbors.
But, making these strides could have a serious impact on Israel's environment. One of the most important issues facing us is the relocation of military bases, airfields and training facilities that will be necessary as a result of the pull out from the Golan Heights. The problem is that about the only land available for relocating these things is JNF land. This is land that has been purchased over the past 50 years by funds from Jews across the world (the bulk from the United States). As much as 50% of this land, set aside as a national treasure, could be affected.
This situation raises several eco dilemmas. One is whether it is worth it to trade a peace so tenuous that it requires the same level of
military preparation after it takes place as before – the only change being that of location.
Another question this situation raises is whether Israel truly is the Homeland of all Jews or if it is a national homeland for those who live there. The answer to this question will determine who is involved in the decision making process. What do you think? Should be use virtually the last remaining natural landscape of Israel to build military bases? Who should have the right to determine where these bases are constructed?
Let us know your thinking.
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