What we need to remember about Israel is the history behind the creation of the Jewish state. This historical perspective drives the hawkish outlook Israel has about her security.

To me, it is not Israel herself that is to blame. The people in Israel are loving people and share many of the same values that you and I share.

The Israeli political system is to blame. Minority groups garner much more political clout than what they are actually worth. This causes seemingly progressive governments (Don’t get me started about Bibi, “The Hawk”) to pursue aggressive policies to remain credible with the smaller political factions.

In line with this argument, the far-right political groups are also to blame. These political parties are open about their racism and hatred towards Palestinians and Arabs in general. These political parties do not see a peaceful settlement as a goal and intend to torture the Palestinians for as long as they can.

Israel is at fault, this is true. But the people of Israel are not. Many are not concerned with politics and hate to see the violence handed down by their government.

How can we change this? We can do what George H.W. Bush tried in 91. We can stave off funding until concrete steps towards peace are made. We can educate more Palestinians by bringing them to European and American run schools.

What we cannot do: We cannot confront the Israeli lobby, because we, as peace activists, will fail against the strength of the industrial military machine. Goals must be long term and must always recognize that we walk a thin line when working towards peace in Israel.

One thing is clear: If Bibi Netanyahu becomes Prime Minister, peace will not come to the holy land.