Lebanon: The Epicenter -- An interview w/ Dr. Ilan Pappe

[Hatalles]

Ilan Pappe is senior lecutrer, department of political science, Haifa University and Chair of the Emil Touma institute for Palestinian studies, Haifa. Pappe's recent books include, The Making of the Arab-Israeli Conflict (1992), The Israel Palestine Question (1999) and A History of Modern Palestine (2003).

"Israel is a deeply indoctrinated country, and it is also an isolated country. There are hardly any pictures on TV of the damage to lives and infrastructure in Lebanon. I was born in this society, and I know that if they would know then they would act differently and convey an alternative."

VIBES: What is the current situation in Lebanon, especially after the Qana bombings?

Dr. Ilan Pappe: We see a lull, There has been a slow down and Israel has put a hold on the bombings in South Lebanon, for about two days, but this does not mean that Israel will not continue after 48 hours. Much depends on what the United Nations does from here, and if it calls for an immediate cease fire or if the US allows Israel to continue the bombings for about a week, leading to more suffering of the Lebanese people and surely more massacres at Qana.
Things are different now, but we must wait and see what happens.

VIBES: How much of a role does the United Nations have in calming the situation?

Dr. Ilan Pappe: Not much. A lot depends actually on the European countries. But I must say that I am a bit surprised at the UN, and the consistent message of the Secretary General who has opposed Israel’s disproportionate use of force in the region. The balance has changed for sure in the Gaza strip, but a few forces in the international community cannot do much there needs to be a greater response.

VIBES: You seem to be saying that if the international community’s response is scattered, Israel will lean toward the policy that the US supports whereas if the international community is united and unequivocal about its disapproval of the Lebanon attack, Israel may be forced to cease fire?

Dr. Ilan Pappe: Exactly. And the international community needs to understand that if the danger of continued attack in Lebanon is not controlled soon, then there is a silent support of this war escalating into conflicts with Syria and an Israeli attack on Iran. Countries such as China and others should get involved.

Full interview here: http://www.naseeb.com/naseebvibes/interview-detail.php?aid=5161&pg=1