Citizens for Justice in the Middle East 

Kansas City-based Citizens for Justice in the Middle East (CJME) seeks to educate the American public about the issues involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to end U.S. support for the Israeli occupation of Palestine. U.N Security Council Resolution 242 calls for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories based on the inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war. The United States voted for this resolution, but despite its stated policy has consistently blocked efforts by the United Nations to implement these and other pertinent U.N. resolutions that apply to Israel.

Instead, U.S. diplomatic protection and massive U.S. aid enable Israel to retain control over Palestine and to settle the West Bank with its own citizens in further violations of International law. These violations are a source of instability in the region and foster bitterness and resentment against both Israel and its sponsor state, the United States. Anger at Israel’s harsh blockade of Gaza and its half-century occupation of the West Bank fuels legitimate resistance to the occupation as well as terrorism against Israel. Decades of unconditional U.S. support for Israel have proved counter-productive, providing Israel with disincentives for making peace at the cost of billions of U.S. dollars every year and damage to America’s own national security interests.

Composed of residents from the Greater Kansas City area concerned about the direction of U.S. policy in the Middle East, CJME urges ordinary American citizens to speak out in favor of an even-handed U.S. policy that recognizes the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. Only by respecting the need to provide both parties in the conflict with security and self-determination can a viable and just peace be assured.

*To learn more about Citizens for Justice in the Middle East (CJME) or to get involved, send email to cjme.kansascity@gmail.com, visit CJME on the web site www.cjmekc.org, or follow us on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/cjmenet/

*CJME’ meets the third Monday of every month. All are welcome. For information, email “cjme.kansascity@gmail.com” or visit the web site.