Biden seen with anti-Israel book in Nantucket
President Biden’s recent outing to Nantucket Bookworks has sparked interest and controversy as he was seen leaving with a copy of “The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917-2017” by Columbia University professor emeritus Rashid Khalidi. Despite his longstanding support for Israel, the book describes Israel as a colonial power in the face of Palestinian resistance.
Khalidi, who is of Palestinian and Lebanese descent, has been critical of Israel’s actions, particularly during the first Trump administration, which he referred to as a “mouthpiece” for Israel. He has condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as ethnic cleansing and questioning their political objectives.
While President Biden has declared his support for Israel, he has faced criticism from both Israeli supporters and pro-Palestinian activists. Israeli supporters have accused him of putting conditions on U.S. aid to Israel and pausing shipments of heavy munitions earlier this year. On the other hand, pro-Palestinian activists have criticized him for civilian casualties in Gaza and have given him the nickname “Genocide Joe.”
The book, published in 2020, criticizes Trump’s actions regarding Israel, such as moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israel’s annexation of the Golan Heights. Khalidi also highlights Israel’s alleged discriminatory policies against Palestinians and praises the first intifada as a successful example of popular resistance against oppression.
President Biden’s choice of reading material has raised eyebrows, given his public support for Israel. However, it is important to note that reading diverse perspectives is crucial for understanding complex geopolitical issues. It remains to be seen how this choice of book will influence President Biden’s policies towards Israel and Palestine in the future.
