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Monitoring Palestinian Incitement Is Not Enough

(Jerusalem Post) Fern Oppenheim - Israeli officials historically have spoken about the culture of hatred in the PA solely in terms of incitement. However, there is a related phenomenon - indoctrination - which should be monitored, reported on and publicized in its own right. Children's TV shows and textbooks teach young Palestinians that Israelis have no historical ties to the land, that Jews are evil, and that terrorism is justified. Once youngsters are indoctrinated, they will likely believe the vile things they were taught for the rest of their lives, and act on them. Israel can make all the concessions requested, yet an entire generation of Palestinians will still harbor the hatred they were spoon-fed to their dying days. Indoctrination is therefore a much greater threat than incitement to the long-term prospects for peace. The brainwashing of Palestinian children must be addressed as a pressing issue in its own right. True peace depends on it. The writer is strategic communications consultant for the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.
2010-04-13 08:34:55
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