Israeli-Arab activist Yoseph Haddad informed Digital that members of the are jeopardizing peaceful coexistence between Arabs and Jews in the Middle East.
Haddad stated, “Individuals representing the Squad are attempting to damage the current coexistence and partnership in the area between Arabs and Jews.” He added, “I believe [Alexandria] herself admitted to lacking understanding of the geopolitics of this region—and she is correct. However, Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib are fully aware of the situation here, yet they choose to misrepresent and distort the facts.”
Haddad, who serves as CEO of Together Vouch for Each Other—an organization established in 2018 by young Israeli Arabs to bridge cultural and religious differences—has become a notable figure in Israel’s public diplomacy initiatives since the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023.
Following the attack, Jewish communities throughout the United States and Europe have experienced a surge in antisemitic incidents, including pro-Hamas demonstrations that began on college campuses as early as October 8.
Haddad explained, “The initial category I identify as ‘useful idiots’ comprises individuals who lack understanding of the situation but participate because it seems fashionable.” He continued, “Next are the paid demonstrators. One observes the same individuals at various rallies displaying diverse signs—at times concerning LGBTQ matters, at times pro-Palestinian, and at times relating to internal American issues.”
He further stated, “It is consistently the same person, merely in different attire and holding a different sign. The third group—the most perilous—consists of extremists who have arrived from the Middle East. They are the individuals who warrant our deepest concern.”
Haddad attributed the proliferation of extremist viewpoints in the West to successive waves of immigration and population displacement from Middle Eastern conflict regions. He noted that while most Muslim immigrants sought refuge from persecution for improved lives, a prominent minority introduced the ideology of the, thereby essentially holding their communities captive.
He remarked, “When there is such a large immigrant population globally, if merely 10 to 20 percent are extremists, one suddenly faces millions of extremists.”
He continued, “When facing danger or a problem, ostriches bury their heads in the sand, believing the issue will resolve itself unnoticed. This behavior is currently mirrored by weak governments, acting like ostriches. The sole issue is that they will not be overlooked; rather, it will facilitate their downfall.”
Regarding allegations that Israel imposes a system on Jews and Arabs, Haddad unequivocally dismissed the comparison.
Haddad explained, “Genuine apartheid, as seen in South Africa, involved segregation in all aspects—transportation, healthcare facilities, legal systems, sports, and even pedestrian pathways.” He asserted, “However, if one truly visits Israel and observes daily life, it is entirely contrary—a complete reversal.”
He urged, “Cease speaking from an emotional standpoint—this is precisely what The Squad is doing. Begin discussing facts. Then, it will become evident that anyone who determines Israel to be an apartheid state is irrational.”
He also recounted an encounter with a demonstrator, whom he labeled among “the useful idiots.”
“They are completely unaware… On one occasion, I recited the Hamas charter to a pro-Palestinian ‘useful idiot.’ After reading it to them and asking if they agreed, they responded, ‘No, no, no, I was unaware of that.’ I pointed out, ‘Yes, but this is what you are endorsing,’ noting he was wearing a Hamas headband. ‘You realize this is what you are supporting.'”
He concluded, “He immediately removed the headband thereafter. There are numerous such ‘useful idiots,’ not only in the United States but also observable in Europe.”
When questioned about his perception of the Palestinians’ ultimate aspirations, Haddad highlighted common slogans from anti-Israel and antisemitic demonstrations, including “From, Palestine will be free” and “There is only one solution: Intifada revolution.”
Haddad asserted, “Most Palestinians do not desire to coexist with Israel.” He added, “Therefore, when discussions arise regarding a two-state solution and inquiries into Israel’s dedication, I advise: Do not question the Israelis—inquire with the Palestinians. You may be astonished to discover that many are unwilling to accept it.”
Haddad noted that historical understanding can be gained through various sources, including religious texts such as the Torah for Jews, the Bible for Christians, and the Quran for Muslims. Even non-believers can consult historical accounts to find evidence of the Jewish people’s profound connection to the land of Israel.
Haddad contended that the Torah explicitly states the presence of Jews in Israel, indicating their existence for millennia. He further emphasized the Biblical mention of Jesus’ birth in Jewish Bethlehem, disputing the idea that Palestinian Muslims hold a historical claim to the land preceding that of the Jews.
Haddad observed that although Jerusalem is absent from the Quran, the phrase “sons of Israel” occurs over 43 times. He additionally stressed that the Romans assigned the name “Palestine” as a punitive measure following the Bar Kokhba revolt.
Haddad underscored that in 1947, Arabs were offered a Palestinian state via the U.N. Partition Plan, a proposal the Jews accepted despite acquiring less territory and resources. Nevertheless, the Arabs declined the plan and chose armed conflict. Upon the Jewish victory, 156,000 Arabs stayed within the newly formed Israel. Haddad shared his personal link to this narrative, explaining that his grandfather was among the Arabs who remained and subsequently became part of the Arab Israeli identity.
Haddad stated, “One must either acknowledge Israel’s existence and permanence, or persist in the cycle of violence and fatalities we seek to avoid.” He added, “However, those who will endure the greatest suffering are you, , whether residing in the West Bank or Gaza.”
Multiple requests for commentary directed to Representatives Ocasio-Cortez, Tlaib, and Omar went unanswered.