As the former Prime Minister of Canada, I’ve been asked countless times why I support Israel. My answer? It’s simple – why wouldn’t I? Let me break it down for you.
Democracy in Action: Israel’s Vibrant Political Landscape
Israel isn’t just another country in the Middle East. It’s a thriving democracy where open elections, free speech, and religious tolerance are the norm. We’re talking about a place with a kickass free press and an independent judiciary. That’s not something you see every day in that part of the world.
Innovation Nation: Israel’s Tech Revolution
Let’s talk business for a sec. Israel isn’t called the “Startup Nation” for nothing. These folks are crushing it in the tech world. Your smartphone? Yeah, there’s a good chance some of its key components were designed in Israel. And don’t even get me started on their medical innovations. They’re literally saving lives with their cutting-edge drugs and devices.
Defending Democracy: Israel’s Struggle for Survival
Here’s the thing – Israel has been fighting for its survival since day one. Every military action they’ve taken has been defensive. They’re not out there trying to conquer new territories. They’re just trying to keep their people safe. From the moment Israel was born in 1948, it’s been under attack. Its Arab neighbors tried to wipe it off the map. And guess what? No one came to help. Not the US, not Canada, not the UK. Everyone thought Israel would lose. But they didn’t. They won.
Human Rights Champion in a Tough Neighborhood
Now, you’d think a country that’s been through so much would turn into a police state, right? Wrong. Israel has stuck to its guns when it comes to democracy and human rights. One-fifth of its citizens are Muslim, and they have the same rights as everyone else. They’re in the courts, the press, the government – you name it.
The Double Standard: Why the Hate?
So here’s what bugs me. You’ve got all these leftist politicians, activists, and college kids who spend their time bashing Israel. They’re calling for boycotts and trying to cut Israel off from the rest of the world. But do they say anything about the Palestinian leadership that hasn’t held an election in over a decade? Or Hamas using women and children as human shields? Nope. They’re too busy hating on Israel.
The Bottom Line: Why I Support Israel
Look, Israel has been around for over 70 years now. It’s one of the freest, most prosperous, and most successful nations on Earth. So when people ask me why I support Israel, I can’t help but think – why wouldn’t I? Why wouldn’t anyone who believes in democracy, innovation, and human rights? Israel isn’t perfect. No country is. But in a region filled with brutal regimes, it stands out as a beacon of hope and progress. That’s why I supported Israel as Prime Minister, and that’s why I continue to support it today. So next time someone asks you why you support Israel, hit ’em with this: Why wouldn’t you support a country that’s fighting the good fight for democracy, innovation, and human rights? That’s the Israel I know and support. And I’m not about to change my mind anytime soon.