mideast – mackaycartoons

Saturday September 28, 2024

October 1, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 28, 2024

Animated making-of clip here!

Netanyahu’s Escalation Risks Broader Conflict While Peace Remains Abandoned

December 20, 2023

Thomas L. Friedman’s recent analysis of the Israel-Hezbollah-Hamas-Iran conflict in The New York Times frames the issue as part of a global battle between a “coalition of inclusion” and a “coalition of resistance,” with Israel standing at a critical junction. While this perspective offers a compelling geopolitical narrative, it glosses over key realities on the ground. As Benjamin Netanyahu’s military offensive expands from Gaza to Lebanon, it seems less about securing peace and more about consolidating power through the elimination of key leadership figures in Hamas and Hezbollah. The harsh humanitarian toll and the escalating risks of broader regional conflict suggest a more dangerous path—one where peace is sidelined and devastation deepens.

Opinion: What This Israel-Hezbollah-Hamas-Iran Conflict is Really About

October 14, 2023

The insightful reporting by Ben Hubbard and Alissa J. Rubin in The New York Times vividly documents the devastating impact of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The relentless bombardment, aimed at dismantling Hamas leadership, has destroyed civilian infrastructure, flattened entire neighbourhoods, and displaced thousands. This is not a fight that ends with the death of key leaders; instead, it’s a cycle that perpetuates destruction, creating a new generation of anger and despair among Palestinians. As Friedman correctly notes, Netanyahu’s military campaign against Iran’s proxies is framed as part of a larger international conflict, but it’s also clear that this strategy is profoundly damaging to those living under fire.

Analysis: Facing a Big Test, Iran’s ‘Axis of Resistance’ Flails

Hubbard and Rubin emphasize the cost of this war not only in terms of lives lost but in the complete collapse of basic services and governance in Gaza. Hospitals are overwhelmed, water supplies are compromised, and electricity is scarce. Civilians bear the brunt of a war in which they have little say, caught between the militant tactics of Hamas and the overwhelming military power of Israel. Netanyahu’s military strategy may succeed in taking down Hamas leaders, but at the cost of eroding any prospects for a peaceful future in the region.

October 20, 2023

Netanyahu’s widening offensive in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah in the north, risks expanding the humanitarian catastrophe beyond Gaza. Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah, now killed in an Israeli strike, was seen as a destabilizing force, but his death, like the toppling of Hamas leadership, is unlikely to bring about the peace Israel claims to be fighting for. As Hubbard and Rubin detail, the fear in Lebanon is palpable. The nation is already teetering on the edge of collapse due to its political paralysis, economic crisis, and a vast influx of refugees. Further destabilization from Israeli military actions could push Lebanon into outright disaster, echoing the ruin seen in Gaza.

Reader comments on Friedman’s analysis rightly point out the complexities Israel faces. One reader highlighted the entanglement of Israel’s military leadership with its far-right settler movement. Many high-ranking Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) officers come from these settlements, complicating any move toward a two-state solution or territorial concessions. The settlements—long supported by Netanyahu’s government—are not just political bargaining chips; they are deeply entrenched in Israel’s defence and security infrastructure. As one reader argued, Israel may be stuck in a “bear trap” of its own making. Any serious disengagement from the occupied territories risks not only international fallout but potential civil unrest within Israel itself.

November 10, 2023

The parallels Friedman draws between Israel’s regional struggle and the broader post-Cold War global order are illuminating but ultimately incomplete. While Israel is fighting proxies of Iran, Russia’s war in Ukraine is driven by similar attempts to resist Western inclusion. Yet, as one reader commented, America itself seems to be straddling the line between inclusion and resistance, particularly given the rise of populist, authoritarian-leaning movements at home. In this sense, the struggle between inclusion and resistance is not just an external geopolitical dynamic—it is one that many countries, including the U.S. and Israel, are grappling with internally.

Friedman’s argument that Israel can emerge as a stabilizing force through an alliance with Saudi Arabia overlooks the core issue of Palestinian sovereignty. While Netanyahu’s government seeks to normalize relations with Arab states like Saudi Arabia, the price of such an alliance—ignoring the plight of Palestinians—will likely prove unsustainable. As Ben Hubbard and Alissa J. Rubin report, the Israeli offensive against Hamas and Hezbollah has sparked widespread condemnation across the Arab world. Social media is flooded with posts calling out the destruction and human cost in Gaza and Lebanon. Saudi Arabia and other regional players may see the long-term benefit of aligning with Israel, but public opinion in these countries cannot ignore the ongoing suffering of Palestinians.

October 18, 2022

One of the key questions raised by both Friedman and the reader comments is whether Netanyahu has a plan beyond the military victories he seeks. The answer seems to be no. As one commenter noted, Netanyahu’s far-right coalition has shown little interest in pursuing peace or reconciliation with the Palestinians. The maps Netanyahu held up during his UN speech may reflect his vision of Israel’s place in the world, but their omission of Gaza and the West Bank underscores his government’s unwillingness to confront the realities of occupation and Palestinian statehood. Without a diplomatic strategy that addresses the core grievances of Palestinians, Netanyahu’s military victories will only be pyrrhic, ensuring more instability in the long run.

Hubbard and Rubin’s reporting, along with Friedman’s broader analysis, paints a picture of a region on the brink of broader conflict. The elimination of key leadership figures in Hamas and Hezbollah may satisfy short-term military objectives, but it is unlikely to lead to a lasting peace. Iran, which backs both Hezbollah and Hamas, will not simply abandon its proxies, and its response may come in ways that Israel and its allies are unprepared for. The risks of escalation, both within the region and involving global powers like Russia and China, are very real. Moreover, the humanitarian cost of these wars—particularly in Gaza and Lebanon—will only deepen the divides between Israel and the Arab world, making the prospect of normalization with Saudi Arabia ever more complicated.

While Netanyahu’s strategy may deliver tactical victories by eliminating Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, it is a strategy that comes with severe humanitarian costs and escalates the risk of broader conflict. True peace will require more than military dominance—it will demand a commitment to diplomacy, reconciliation, and a genuine effort to address the root causes of conflict, particularly Palestinian self-determination. Until Netanyahu and his government are willing to engage in meaningful peace efforts, the region will remain locked in cycles of violence and destruction. (AI)

Friday November 10, 2023

November 10, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday November 10, 2023

Opinion Piece: Vladimir Putin’s Exploitation of the Mideast Conflict

October 20, 2023

Vladimir Putin’s calculated manipulation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly his recent engagement with Hamas, raises serious concerns about his true intentions and further diverts attention from his aggressive actions in Ukraine. By using the turmoil in the Mideast as a means to stir up more problems and keep the world’s attention diverted, Putin is able to continue his bloody conquest of Ukraine without facing the full scrutiny and condemnation it deserves.

The visit of the Hamas delegation to Moscow, less than three weeks after their attack on Israel, is a clear display of Putin’s provocative strategy. This move is seen as a deliberate attempt to bolster Russia’s influence in the Middle East, at the expense of stability and peace in the region. It is concerning that Russia, with its troubled history of anti-Semitism, is willing to engage with a group that has been involved in acts of terrorism against Israel.

Opinion: Hamas’s Oct. 7 birthday gift to Putin

September 13, 2013

Furthermore, Putin’s increasingly close ties with countries like Iran and Syria, both of which are hostile to Israel, strain Russia’s relationship with Israel. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has tried to develop closer ties with Putin, Russia’s support for Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its military involvement in Syria have created significant tensions between the two countries. Putin’s actions only serve to complicate an already fragile situation in the region.

The timing of the Hamas delegation’s visit, amidst the crisis in Gaza, further exacerbates the strain between Russia and Israel. Israel has rightfully condemned Russia for hosting the Hamas delegation, as it undermines efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. This event, along with the escalating situation in Gaza, is likely to worsen relations between Russia and Israel, adding another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.

News: Ukraine war: Zelensky says Israel-Gaza conflict taking focus away from fighting

October 18, 2022

While it is evident that the turmoil in the Middle East may benefit Russia by diverting attention from its conflict in Ukraine, there are potential risks if the conflict in the Mideast escalates further. The limited time and attention that global leaders can allocate to different problems may result in other countries, such as Ukraine, feeling neglected. This could lead to a deterioration in Ukraine without much effort from Russia, as resources and support are redirected to the Middle East.

It is crucial to recognize Putin’s exploitation of the Mideast conflict for what it is: a calculated strategy to maintain and expand Russian influence at the expense of stability and peace in the region. The international community must remain vigilant and condemn Putin’s actions, holding him accountable for his aggressive actions in Ukraine and his attempts to divert attention through involvement in the Middle East. It is only by addressing and confronting these actions that we can hope to bring about a more peaceful and stable world. (AI)

Wednesday October 24, 2023

October 25, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday October 24, 2023

Ontario Legislator Removed from Caucus Following Controversial Comments on Israel-Hamas Conflict

June 18, 2021

In a surprising turn of events, a rookie Ontario legislator found herself ousted from the New Democratic caucus on Monday, just moments before Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives effectively silenced her in the legislature. The controversy stemmed from comments made by Sarah Jama regarding the Israel-Hamas war, leading to a rift within the party.

News: Sarah Jama ejected from NDP caucus over Israel-Hamas comments: ‘This was undermining our work’

Initially, NDP leader Marit Stiles stood by Jama after she issued an apology for her initial statement. However, Stiles later revealed that Jama had spoken against a motion in the legislature without prior notification. This lack of transparency and collaboration prompted Stiles to make the difficult decision to remove Jama from the caucus, citing the detrimental impact on the collective work of the Ontario NDP official Opposition.

The Progressive Conservative government seized the opportunity to criticize Jama, introducing a motion that limited her participation in debates but still allowed her to vote. This motion, aimed at preventing distractions, was passed on Monday despite Jama and the New Democrats voting against it.

July 25, 2014

Earlier in the day, Jama took the floor in the legislature to voice her opposition to the motion, accusing the Progressive Conservative government of using it as a diversion tactic. Her statement echoed her previous remarks, which condemned the occupation of Palestine without addressing the Hamas attacks. Jama, who has Palestinian family ties, emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of essential resources in Gaza.

The situation escalated when Stiles officially expelled Jama from the caucus, citing her lack of transparency and teamwork. Jama declined to comment following the vote. Stiles clarified that Jama’s initial statement had not received approval from the caucus, further exacerbating the internal conflict.

Opinion: Sarah Jama has deprived herself — and her constituents — of a voice in the legislature

October 14, 2023

Adding fuel to the fire, Jama sent a cease-and-desist letter to Premier Doug Ford, alleging defamation based on his comments about her statement. Ford’s lawyer quickly responded, denying the defamation claims and emphasizing the premier’s right and obligation to condemn antisemitism and terrorism. The lawyer further asserted that the public has a corresponding right to hear his stance on these significant issues. If Jama proceeds with a lawsuit, Ford’s legal team vows to vigorously defend against it.

The fallout from this incident highlights the delicate nature of discussing sensitive international conflicts within political circles. It also underscores the challenges faced by lawmakers in balancing personal beliefs, party unity, and public expectations. As the dust settles, the Ontario legislature will undoubtedly continue to grapple with the aftermath and seek to restore harmony and focus on the pressing matters at hand. (AI)

Editorial cartoon printed in the Hamilton Spectator and the Toronto Star.

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Friday October 20, 2023

October 20, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday October 20, 2023

Putin and Iran’s Calculated Exploitation of Israel-Palestine Crisis

October 14, 2023

It’s no coincidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iran, his pro-Hamas and Hezbollah funding ally, are capitalizing on the turmoil between Israel and Palestine to further their agenda. Their strategy? To sow chaos in the West by drawing them into the conflict and diverting attention away from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Iran’s proxy involvement in the destruction of Ukrainian lives through missile attacks.

The timing of their maneuvers couldn’t be more perfect for Putin, who finds himself celebrating his birthday while hundreds of Hamas militants enter Israel, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,300 innocent civilians. For Moscow, the primary goal right now is to distract the world from its military aggression in Ukraine, where it has been involved in untold atrocities. To that end, they are actively working to undermine the United States and its allies, and the crisis in Israel serves their interests perfectly.

June 1, 2023

While we lack concrete proof that Russian leaders had prior knowledge of the Hamas attacks, there’s no doubt that the Kremlin is seizing this opportunity. Russia has escalated its support for Hamas through diplomacy and a propaganda offensive. Additionally, it’s using this crisis to ratchet up violence in Ukraine while the global community remains distracted. Senior Hamas official Ali Baraka even lauded Russia’s support in a recent interview with Russia Today, a state-controlled media outlet, acknowledging that Russia is content to see the United States embroiled in the Palestinian conflict, as it relieves pressure on Russia in Ukraine. It’s a cynical game of one war easing the pressure of another.

September 22, 2022

Analysis: What Putin Stands to Gain From Israel-Hamas War

While the precise extent of Russia’s military support for Hamas remains uncertain, there are telltale signs, such as Hamas being in possession of Russian licenses to manufacture Kalashnikov rifles and ammunition used in the assault. Reports have also suggested that Russia’s Wagner, a mercenary firm, may have assisted in training Hamas soldiers. Moreover, it’s believed that Palestinian terrorist groups are laundering illicit funds through a crypto exchange based in Moscow.

Although there is no confirmed direct military support from Russia to Hamas, it’s clear that the collaboration between Russia and Iran in Ukraine has indirectly benefitted Hamas. The shared technology and tactics developed in Ukraine have found their way into Hamas’s arsenal, such as armed drones used against Israeli targets.

February 25, 2022

Moreover, Moscow has turned its extensive propaganda machine into a pro-Hamas, anti-Western disinformation campaign. Even before the recent outbreak of hostilities, Russian media had been insinuating that U.S. arms meant for Ukraine ended up in the hands of terrorists plotting against Israel. Following the attack, pro-Russian videos of dubious origin circulated, accusing Ukraine of arming Hamas, some even masquerading as fake BBC reports.

Russian officials and propaganda outlets are unanimous in blaming the United States for the ongoing violence in Israel, arguing that Washington’s preoccupation with Ukraine has led to the neglect of mounting tensions in the Middle East. This is a deliberate ploy to drive a wedge in Western military support for Ukraine, demoralize Ukrainian society, and reassure Russian audiences that international society will ignore Ukraine’s war effort.

October 18, 2022

The relationship between Russia and Hamas isn’t new, with Putin hosting Hamas leaders in Moscow as early as 2006. Russia has never designated Hamas as a terrorist organization and has consistently taken a pro-Palestinian diplomatic stance. However, the recent events mark a stark departure from the previously cordial relations between Russia and Israel. Israel had been reluctant to overtly support Ukraine to avoid jeopardizing its ability to strike targets in Syria with Russia’s acquiescence. Now, Russia is committed to supporting Hamas and Iran, especially in diplomatic circles.

Opinion: The Israel-Hamas war is the latest proof Russia is a global agent of chaos

On October 13th, Russia introduced a draft resolution in the U.N. Security Council calling for an immediate cease-fire and condemning all acts of terrorism but conspicuously omitted any reference to Hamas. In a speech, Russia’s U.N. ambassador blamed the United States for the “looming war” in the Middle East and condemned Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians, squarely putting the blame on Washington.

Putin’s emphasis on blaming the United States instead of the terrorists reveals his true objectives. His priority is not to resolve the crisis but to link it to his broader conflict against the West. It is essential to recognize that Russia, Iran, and Hamas are working together to undermine the United States, Europe, Ukraine, and Israel.

As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted in a speech to NATO, “the only difference is that there is a terrorist organization that attacked Israel, and here is a terrorist state that attacked Ukraine.”

In the coming days, President Biden will seek emergency funding for both Israel and Ukraine, and it is imperative that Congress swiftly approves both components of the package. If the United States were to abandon Ukraine by cutting off aid, Putin’s strategy would have achieved its nefarious goals. (AI)

Thursday October 19, 2023

October 19, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday October 19, 2023

President Biden’s Diplomatic Balancing Act in the Israel-Palestine Conflict

October 14, 2023

As President Biden ventured into the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict, he demonstrated a careful and calibrated approach to navigating one of the world’s most enduring crises. With escalating violence in the region and deep-rooted divisions within his own party, Biden’s diplomatic efforts are at a crucial juncture, posing both political risks and opportunities.

President Biden’s unwavering support for Israel following a devastating Hamas attack in Tel Aviv was an expected, yet bold move. The President’s stance, largely in line with Washington’s dominant position, earned him praise from both sides of the aisle. His extensive foreign policy experience made handling an international crisis seem like familiar territory, even amid grave geopolitical dangers.

News: White House confirms president won’t meet King Abdullah II, Palestinian leader Abbas or President al-Sisi of Egypt after airstrike

October 18, 2022

While foreign policy rarely takes center stage in American elections, Biden’s role as a statesman abroad, particularly if he can help de-escalate the rising tensions, could offer a welcome respite from the barrage of domestic challenges that have affected his approval ratings.

In Tel Aviv, Biden reaffirmed America’s support for Israel but, in a subtle shift, he offered humanitarian assistance to displaced Palestinians. He also cautioned against repeating past mistakes, referencing the U.S. response to the 9/11 attacks. This nuanced approach demonstrated Biden’s commitment to finding a path to peace in the region, even as tensions flared.

However, Biden’s task is made more challenging by the growing anger within the progressive wing of his party, especially as Israel intensified its military actions in Gaza. Progressive Democrats accused him of supporting a war that had already claimed the lives of thousands of Palestinians. This anger reached a peak after a deadly explosion at a Gaza City hospital, sparking protests across the Middle East and forcing Biden to cancel his planned visit to Jordan.

April 26, 2023

This precarious tightrope that Biden is walking reflects the complex nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict. While many Republicans have simplified the issue, seeing it in black and white terms, the progressive base of the Democratic Party views it through a different lens. Younger Democrats, in particular, are skeptical of Israeli policies toward Palestinians and are reluctant to support military action, even in response to a Hamas attack.

To address these concerns, a group of progressive members of Congress signed a letter calling for the restoration of essential supplies to Gaza. Another House resolution demanded an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire. While Biden’s defenders argue that he is privately pushing Israel to minimize civilian casualties, critics warn that if he aligns too closely with Israel, he may be held accountable for excessive use of force.

Opinion: President Biden’s Finest Hour

December 1, 2012

Amid this internal party strife, Biden’s trip to Israel is seen as an opportunity for de-escalation. Larry Cohen, chairman of Our Revolution, a left-wing political organization, expressed hope that the visit could prevent further violence.

Public opinion on this matter is mixed, with polls indicating that Americans are more confident in Biden’s ability to handle the Israel-Palestine conflict than domestic issues. However, the younger and more progressive wing of the Democratic Party remains skeptical of his approach, particularly when it comes to military support for Israel.

The key challenge for President Biden lies in balancing American interests, maintaining relations with a long-standing ally, and addressing the concerns of his party’s progressive wing. It’s a delicate act, but if he can successfully defuse tensions and contribute to a lasting peace, it may enhance his reputation as a seasoned diplomat and provide a welcome boost to his re-election bid. In the tumultuous world of foreign policy, Biden’s cautious and measured steps are a testament to his experience and diplomatic competence. (AI)

Editorial cartoon printed in the Hamilton Spectator and the Toronto Star.