WAR CRIMES

The local Portland Press Herald ran an article this morning about possible war crimes in Gaza by Israel. Then I just ran across a similar story on CNN that reported, "Israeli forces shelled a house where they had ordered about 100 Palestinian civilians to take shelter, killing about 30 people and wounding many more, witnesses told the U.N.

"The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) issued a blunt press release saying ambulances obtained access to several houses in Zeitoun 'affected by Israel shelling,' days after they asked to go into the neighborhood.

"The release slammed Israel -- an uncharacteristic move for the agency, which is known for its neutrality and quiet, behind-the-scenes activities. According to the release, the ICRC had wanted 'safe passage for ambulances' to the neighborhood since Saturday, but didn't receive Israeli Defense Forces permission until Wednesday."

Israel's recent devastation of Lebanon vividly remains in the memories of most people. And now we are witnessing this carnage in Gaza.

The U.S. Senate has proven itself to be an enabler of Israel as our illustrious upper body on Thursday passed a resolution expressing "America's unequivocal and steadfast support for Israel's right to self-defense."

AIPAC praised the Senate for passage of the resolution which expressed support for Israel in its "fight against terrorism."

The Senate used a voice vote rather than a recorded one so it is impossible to determine how any particular senator voted. It is unknown if there were any abstentions.

"When we pass this resolution, the United States Senate will strengthen our historic bond with the state of Israel, by reaffirming Israel's inalienable right to defend against attacks from Gaza, as well as our support for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process," Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat, said before the vote.

Peace process? I'm sorry Sen. Reid, I think you got it wrong. It's not a peace process - its a process of destruction and cultural genocide.

So now the U.S. Senate is on record of supporting Israel's war crimes in Gaza. The House voted 390-5 in favor, see the full list here.

Please stand by if you are waiting for change in the new Democratic Party controlled Congress. We will alert you at the first sighting of any but don't hold your breath.

In the meantime Naomi Klein is calling for a boycott of Israel. Read her article here.