As protests for a ceasefire in Gaza mount at universities across the U.S., both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine groups have rallied supporters here in Boise. Hey Boise recently asked the organizers behind Boise to Palestine about their priorities. Today, we have an interview with the founder of the Idaho Israel Alliance, Dan Berger, about his reactions to recent protests, and his group’s goals.
This interview was edited for clarity.
What are your reactions to the ongoing protests on U.S. college campuses calling for a ceasefire?
“I support free speech. I don't support threats and intimidation to Jewish students on campus. Also, please be honest with your framing. The campus protests are not calling for a ceasefire; They are calling for the dismantling of Israel and vilifying Judaism.”
In a statement announcing the installation of new "Let's be clear: Hamas is your problem too" billboards, the Idaho Israel Alliance declared a plan to unite the valley around "American Judeo-Christian values." Can you speak to that goal, and concerns that it excludes Idahoans outside those faiths?
“The term Judeo-Christian values is a reference to a set of commonly-accepted ethical and moral principles in Western democracies. It is not inclusive of anyone who supports terrorism, and chants ‘death to America’ or ‘globalize the intifada.’”
As this conflict stretches into its seventh month with over 34,000 Palestinians dead and the onset of the worst famine in this century, what do you see as the path forward to peace from here in Idaho?
“34k is an incorrect figure reported by Hamas and not verified by any credible source.* That said, my heart goes for anyone impacted by this conflict. A figure that has been verified is the nearly 9,000 antisemitic acts in the US last year. The Idaho Israel Alliance is not focused on foreign policy, we're focused on creating a safe space here in Idaho for Jews and their supporters.”
*The United Nations and credible news outlets across the world, including the Associated Press, continue to report that Israel's assault on Gaza since October has killed over 34,000 Palestinians.
