Portrait of George Soros
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George Soros on Israel

Critical of Israeli Policy (strong)

TL;DR

George Soros strongly advocates for critical self-examination of Israeli policies while asserting his deep concern for Israel's survival.

Key Points

  • In an April 2007 article, he criticized the Bush administration and the Israeli government for refusing to recognize the Palestinian unity government that included Hamas.

  • He accused the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) of overreaching and successfully suppressing criticism of US-Israeli policy toward Palestinians.

  • The Open Society Foundations has supported Israeli and Palestinian organizations that research and document violations of human rights and international humanitarian law since 1999.

Summary

George Soros has publicly expressed critical views regarding the policies of the Israeli government, particularly those concerning the Palestinian issue. He posited in 2007 that the prevailing American and Israeli positions, such as refusing to recognize a Palestinian unity government including Hamas, were major policy blunders that precluded peace progress. Soros emphasizes the necessity of military superiority for Israel's security but contends that a political solution, involving withdrawal from parts of the West Bank for a workable Palestinian state, is also essential. He believes that ongoing military escalation endangers Israel's existence more than external threats like Hamas or Hezbollah.

Beyond specific policy critiques, Soros has vocally opposed what he sees as the stifling influence of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) on political debate in the United States, accusing the lobby of overreaching its mission and suppressing constructive criticism of Israeli actions. His Open Society Foundations have funded organizations that document violations of human rights and international law in the region, leading to accusations that he supports groups seeking to undermine Israel’s status as a democracy. Despite this critique of policy and lobby influence, Soros has also stated he is not a Zionist but maintains a deep concern for Israel's long-term security and survival.

Key Quotes

I do not subscribe to the myths propagated by enemies of Israel and I am not blaming Jews for anti-Semitism.

It's not specifically antisemitism, but it does manifest itself in antisemitism as well. I'm critical of those policies…

Frequently Asked Questions

George Soros's core position is characterized by a strong critique of specific Israeli government policies, particularly regarding the peace process with Palestinians. He believes that a political solution involving territorial compromise is necessary for Israel's long-term security. While critical of policies, he has also expressed a deep concern for the nation's survival.

He has strongly criticized the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), alleging it has become too influential in US politics. Soros claimed that the lobby has suppressed open debate on US-Israel policy by accusing critics of fomenting anti-Semitism, which he viewed as damaging to Israel's interests.

Soros has stated he does not deny the right of Jews to a national existence, though he has also said he does not wish to be a part of it. His son indicated that Soros supports a two-state solution, aligning his views with the more progressive Israeli political parties.