Key Takeaways:
– Voting against Kamala Harris may not considerably advantage Palestinians.
– Boycotting the election or opting for a third-party candidate may indirectly assist Trump’s return.
– Despite disappointment, Emgage advises Muslim Americans to vote for Harris.
– Critics wish for Harris to condition US aid to Israel on a ceasefire and respectful peace talks.
– Trump’s contradictory positions on the Israel-Hamas conflict are causing concern.
Harris Vs. Palestinians: The Real Picture
Discussions are rife if penalizing Vice President Kamala Harris in the forthcoming presidential race would benefit Palestinians. Observers feel that while many may harbor feelings of reprisal against Harris for the Biden administration’s earnest support of Israel, the ultimate consequence may simply assist former President Trump to reclaim the throne.
The Israeli forces have been severely criticised for unleashing widespread miseries on Gaza’s innocent civilians. This action was a countermeasure to the abhorrent Hamas attacks in 2023. However, resorting to non-participation in the election or casting votes for third-party aspirants, such as Jill Stein of the Green Party, could potentially self-sabotage the cause instead of accomplishing any significant outcome.
Muslim Americans’ Dilemma
Muslim Americans, particularly those residing in the key battleground state of Michigan, have expressed profound discontent regarding U.S. policies in the Middle East. Michigan, hosting the largest Arab-American population, boasts an influential voting bloc. Data from Emgage, an organization promoting the Muslim American vote, indicate over 200,000 registered Muslim voters in Michigan alone. In the 2020 elections, these counties swung the results decisively in favor of the Democratic party. On this occasion, the stakes may drastically change as the Democratic support among Muslim Americans has sharply dropped to only 12% in favor of Harris. According to recent data, around 30% to 40% of Muslim Americans have indicated their intentions to vote for third-party candidates.
Emgage’s Stance and the Trump Factor
Emgage’s CEO, Wa’el Alzayat, has stated the current situation could significantly impact the election results. Despite the resentment against the Democratic administration, Alzayat believes many know that rationally, Harris deserves their vote. Emgage has sided with Harris, advocating that endorsement does not necessarily mean approval, but rather a pledge to ensure that the incoming administration listens and addresses their community’s concerns. They aim to secure peace, justice, and safety and recognize the perils Trump’s autocracy holds for Muslim Americans.
Harris’s approach towards the Gaza conflict and her support for a two-state solution have earned her a fair following. Critics, however, seek more stringent conditions attached to American aid to Israel, including putting an end to indiscriminate bombings, assurance against long-term Gaza occupation, and peace talks.
Trump’s standpoint on the Israel-Hamas conflict, on the other hand, is causing confusion. Claiming adherence to Netanyahu, he insinuates Jews not backing him dislike their faith and Israel. Yet, to the Arab-Americans, he promotes himself as a peace advocate ready to end the armed conflict.
Trump’s tumultuous relationship with Muslim Americans, marked by controversial decisions such as the Muslim immigration ban of 2017 and his unrelenting negativity towards Palestinians, fuels apprehensions about his potential return. Despite such a history, his recent public outreach to Muslim leaders, promising peace, has raised eyebrows.
The Question of Choice
As the election nears, the question hangs – who would be better for the Palestinians? Amidst widespread dismay and political turmoil, the choice seems complex. Where some believe that ‘punishing’ Harris may marginally satisfy sentiments, it doubtlessly paves the way for the uncalled return of Trump, adding further uncertainties to the Palestinian cause. Voters will need to consider their alignments judiciously to ensure the desired outcome.