MEF Dispatch: The Fall of UNRWA, Iran's Isolation, and Extremism in Colorado's Statehouse

The Fall of UNRWA, Iran's Isolation, and Extremism in Colorado's Statehouse

By Winfield Myers ● Nov 01, 2024

Smart Brevity® count: 4 mins...1055 words

In this edition of the MEF Dispatch, we argue that Israel is correct—but long overdue—in banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israel: good riddance. We argue Israel’s strikes on Iran have isolated that country from its key allies Russia and China—a feat that creates an opportunity to further isolate the Islamic Republic through continued pressure and military action. Stateside, we offer a first-hand report of an Islamist organization in Boston that uses funds from a foundation founded by a late Anti-Defamation League director to harass reporters and advocate for violence. In Colorado, meanwhile, a state representative places activism over the obligations of her office by ignoring her district’s rising crime and crumbling infrastructure in order to condemn Israel for “genocide” while whitewashing Hamas. Also in this edition: Turkey’s willful blindness to ISIS terrorism, the continuing assault on English traditions, and more.

UNRWA Ban Is 70 Years Overdue

Israel has banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its borders, citing its links to Hamas – a move that was long overdue.

Why it matters: This decision underscores tensions between Israel and international organizations, highlighting concerns about accountability and governance in Palestinian territories.

The ban aims to address longstanding issues of UNRWA’s ties with Hamas, which undermine any peace efforts.

Accountability concerns: UNRWA’s presence removes responsibility from Palestinian governance, allowing misuse of infrastructure without repercussions.

Hamas regularly uses civilian areas for military purposes, knowing UNRWA will rebuild, thus discouraging proper governance.

Alternatives to UNRWA: The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) could potentially take over UNRWA’s responsibilities, providing a more standardized definition and support for refugees globally.

The unique definition of “refugee” used by UNRWA perpetuates dependency and complicates peace efforts.

Israel Has Isolated Iran from Allies Russia and China

Israel’s recent actions have successfully distanced Iran from its allies, Russia and China, presenting a strategic opportunity.

Why it matters: This diplomatic shift highlights Israel’s ability to weaken Iran’s geopolitical standing, potentially reducing its influence in the region.

Continued pressure from Israel could significantly impact Iran economically, militarily, and politically.

Strategic calculations: Russia and China are unlikely to intervene directly due to economic ties with the West and internal challenges.

Both nations prioritize trade over military involvement, recognizing the risks of supporting Iran against global powers.

Opportunity for Israel: By maintaining military and diplomatic pressure, Israel can further isolate Iran, strengthening alliances and advancing its strategic interests.

This approach underscores Israel’s independent capabilities and potential for long-term regional influence.

A Bridge Too Far: Zakim Foundation Is Funding Violent Pro-Palestinian Radicals

The Zakim Foundation faces scrutiny for funding the Muslim Justice League, linked to radical pro-Palestinian activities.

Why it matters: This highlights potential misalignment with the foundation’s mission and raises questions about accountability in charitable donations.

The funding controversy underscores the need for transparency in how charitable contributions are used.

Funding under fire: Multiple Boston-based foundations, including Zakim, have financially supported the League, sparking concerns over their endorsement of its activities.

The Muslim Justice League has been criticized for inciting violence and anti-American rhetoric.

Call for reassessment: Some foundations are reconsidering future grants to the League, emphasizing the need to align donations with original charitable goals.

The Zakim Foundation is urged to evaluate its support to avoid further reputational damage.

From the River to the Statehouse: Rep. Iman Jodeh’s Divided Loyalties

Colorado Rep. Iman Jodeh faces criticism for prioritizing her pro-Palestine activism and whitewashing terrorism over her local responsibilities amid Hamas attack fallout.

Why it matters: Jodeh’s actions and rhetoric raise concerns about her commitment to her constituents, her smearing of Israel, and her implicit justifications for terrorism.

Her focus on international issues overshadows pressing local challenges, such as violent gang crime and a crumbling infrastructure.

Activism vs. Duty: Jodeh’s absence from key legislative meetings with families of the victims of the October 7 attacks and her controversial statements suggest a misalignment of priorities.

Critics argue her advocacy for Palestine appears to justify terrorism and foment antisemitism.

Calls for Accountability: There’s growing demand for Colorado leadership to address Jodeh’s actions and ensure the needs of her constituents are prioritized.

The controversy highlights the tension between ideological commitments and legislative responsibilities.

Lawyers’ Group Abandons Christian Grace Before Meals—Will It Appease Islamists?

Lincoln’s Inn’s move to replace Christian grace with secular thanks at events is bowing to pressure from Islamist influences.

Why it matters: Critics argue this change undermines the Inn’s historical identity and could lead to further demands that erode its Christian heritage.

The decision reflects a growing trend of altering traditions to appease minority pressures, raising questions about cultural compromise.

Pressure from Islamists: The inclusion of Qur’an readings and requests to invoke “Allah” in services highlight a push towards accommodating Islamic practices.

Such changes are controversial, given the historical Christian foundations of the institution.

Risk of Further Controversies: The decision may trigger more religious disputes, especially concerning the depiction of Muhammad in the Inn’s artwork.

This situation mirrors broader European debates on religious accommodation in public institutions.

Additional Updates

WATCH: “Majd Bader on Combatting Islamist Social Media”

“‘Christian Terrorist’ Who Murdered Three Little English Girls Was Reading Jihadist Literature” by Raymond Ibrahim

“Kurdistan’s Façade of Democracy” by Kamal Chomani

“Turkey Dismissed French Warning of Pending ISIS Attack on Church” by Abdullah Bozkurt

“Local Factions of al-Suwayda’, Syria: Interview with Liwa Jabal al-Karama” by Aymenn Jawad al-Tamimi

As this edition demonstrates, Israel’s willingness to stand up to terrorists and their national and supra-national sponsors reminds us that determination backed by strong actions can turn the tide against sworn enemies. The challenge is now to maintain that resolve in the face of diplomatic intrigues, inevitable setbacks, and endless criticism. In other areas where the news is darker, we’re reminded that only an ironclad commitment to defending our principles can protect us from such chaos and provide the intellectual and moral foundations from which we can diagnose problems and formulate policy to tackle issues originating in the Middle East.

Correction: The introduction to the October 30 edition of the Dispatch stated that Argentina had arrested the Hezbollah terrorist behind the 1990s bombings of Jewish targets in Buenos Aires. He was identified as Hussein Ahmad Karaki, but he has not been arrested. We regret the error.

Sincerely,
Winfield Myers
Managing Editor, Middle East Forum
Director, Campus Watch

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