Palestine – mackaycartoons

Saturday October 12, 2024

October 12, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 12, 2024

Animated making-of clip here!

Gratitude, Complaints, and Context: A Reflection on Thanksgiving 2024

September 29, 2022

As we approach Thanksgiving 2024, a holiday traditionally celebrated with gratitude and the bounty of the harvest, Canadians find themselves caught in a peculiar tension between appreciation and dissatisfaction. The rising cost of living, particularly food prices, has led many to focus on economic struggles rather than the holiday’s central theme of thankfulness. While these concerns are valid, especially for those facing real financial strain, this shift toward complaints risks overshadowing the privilege many of us still enjoy in Canada.

In recent years, grocery prices have indeed risen, as pointed out in Toronto.com, where food inflation saw a 2.4% increase over the past year.

Thanksgiving dinner flyer deals: Here’s how much you might spend on turkey, potatoes, bread rolls, pies and more for the family feast

October 10, 2020

Many shoppers are feeling the squeeze, and it’s tempting to rail against the major supermarket chains—like Loblaws Inc.—that have posted record profits. However, some voices, like columnist Maynard van der Galien’s in The Ottawa Citizen, urge us to step back and reconsider our perspective. He highlights the fact that grocery stores remain well-stocked and clean, offering deals for the strategic shopper. For instance, he found 10 pounds of potatoes for just $1—an astonishingly low price even amidst inflation .

Van der Galien’s point is not that the cost of living hasn’t increased, but that many Canadians still have access to an abundance of food at reasonable prices, provided they take advantage of sales, loyalty programs, and other budgeting tactics. In his view, rather than complaining, Thanksgiving should remind us to appreciate the privileges we enjoy: the convenience of supermarkets, the availability of food from around the world, and the stability of our supply chains.

Opinion: It’s Thanksgiving weekend. Stop complaining about grocery prices

Pandemic Thanksgiving

This argument, however, must be weighed against the realities faced by many who find themselves in tougher economic circumstances. Food banks across the country are reporting record demand, and for some, no amount of flyer-scanning or coupon-clipping will make their Thanksgiving dinner affordable. Yet, as a reader of van der Galien’s column pointed out, it’s all about perspective: even with rising prices, a Thanksgiving meal can still be prepared for less than $50, which per person is cheaper than many fast-food meals. This echoes the long-standing economic principle that inflation is inevitable, not something unique to our current moment.

Yet, there’s a bigger context to consider. While many Canadians worry about grocery costs, others around the world are grappling with much more severe hardships. War-torn regions like Ukraine and the Middle East are facing food insecurity on a much more urgent level. Climate change-fuelled disasters, like the recent hurricanes Helene and Milton, are wreaking havoc on communities to the south of us. Here in Canada, we have been spared the worst of these crises. Our supermarkets are full, our infrastructure remains intact, and most of us are safe. This, too, should factor into our reflections during Thanksgiving.

Opinion: It’s Thanksgiving weekend. Stop complaining about grocery prices

October 10, 2015

Perhaps the growing tendency to complain about rising prices during Thanksgiving reflects a shift in societal expectations. We expect stability, affordability, and abundance, and when these are threatened—even slightly—it can feel unsettling. However, it’s important to remember that the holiday is not just about food, but about gratitude for what we do have, which remains significant when compared to global challenges.

This Thanksgiving, rather than focusing on what’s changed, maybe we can focus on what hasn’t. We are still fortunate to live in a country where clean, well-stocked grocery stores operate every day of the week, where we can find food deals with a bit of effort, and where safety and peace remain constants in our lives. It’s a time to recognize our relative stability in an unstable world. While it’s natural to feel the pinch of inflation, it might be equally natural to let gratitude take precedence over grievances—if only for one weekend.

As we sit down to our Thanksgiving meals this year, whether frugal or extravagant, let’s remind ourselves that being grateful doesn’t mean ignoring hardship—it means acknowledging both our challenges and our privileges. (AI)

* * * * *

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, October 17, 2024

Letter to the Editor

Feeling thankful for what we have

Re: Oct. 12 editorial cartoon

Graeme MacKay is spot on in terms of what countries around the world are thankful for, compared to the North American “first world problems.” I am not implying the majority of Canadians are self-absorbed in their perceived problems of high grocery prices, home costs, etc., but we are indeed lucky to be far removed from political strife that engulfs so many world nations.

So be sure to give some pause around the dinner table on Thanksgiving and think of those less fortunate and under threat of death. Even those in our own communities struggle during these festive holidays. I am very thankful for where I live and will not complain of our lifestyle or country where we live

Steve Warrick, Ancaster

Wednesday October 2, 2024

October 8, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday October 8, 2024

Animated making-of clip here!

A Year After October 7: The Dead End of Hamas’s Brutality and the World’s Inaction

September 28, 2024

As we mark the first anniversary of Hamas’s brutal assault on Israel, it is impossible to overstate the devastating consequences of that attack—not just for the Israelis and Palestinians but for the broader goal of peace in the Middle East. In his recent essay, New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman forcefully condemned Hamas’s actions on October 7, calling them not only indefensible but also a severe setback to any hopes for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He is right. Hamas’s violence, fuelled by hatred and driven by no goal other than destruction, has shattered any glimmers of hope for the long-term solution that should be the only acceptable outcome: two states for two peoples, living side by side in dignity and peace.

Thomas L. Friedman: What I’m Thinking About on the First Anniversary of the War

The attack, in which Hamas brutally murdered, kidnapped, and terrorized Israeli civilians, was horrific. It left communities devastated, families shattered, and deepened the abyss of mutual mistrust and hostility. But beyond the raw brutality, what is particularly tragic is how much this act has set back the cause of Palestinian statehood—the very cause Hamas claims to represent. By engaging in terrorism rather than constructive diplomacy, Hamas not only reignited Israel’s fury but also reinforced global skepticism about the possibility of a peaceful Palestinian leadership emerging in Gaza.

March 20, 2024

For decades, the two-state solution has been seen by many, including Friedman and countless international diplomats, as the only viable path to peace. Yet Hamas’s actions have pushed that vision further out of reach. It was a strategic blunder as much as it was a moral atrocity, handing Israel the justification to retaliate with overwhelming force and to focus on military victory rather than any long-term political solution.

And what of the innocent civilians on both sides? The war has inflicted untold suffering on ordinary people, caught in the crossfire of this seemingly endless conflict. In Israel, families live in constant fear of rocket attacks. In Gaza, civilians—women, children, the elderly—are paying the price for Hamas’s decision to embed itself in residential areas, hospitals, and schools. Gaza’s residents, already living in crippling poverty and under blockade, have been subjected to unimaginable horrors. Hospitals have been bombed, neighbourhoods reduced to rubble, and the humanitarian crisis has worsened by the day. Israel’s military actions, aimed at Hamas, have also caused widespread civilian casualties, deepening the despair of a people who have already suffered for far too long.

Yet as Friedman rightly points out, Israel, too, bears responsibility for its inability to offer a vision for Gaza beyond “total victory” over Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government has pursued a war strategy that, without a plan for what comes next, risks turning Gaza into an eternal battlefield. The relentless bombing of schools and homes to kill a few militants is not a long-term solution, and it only solidifies Israel’s image as a brutal occupier in the eyes of much of the world. Without articulating a vision for peace—a real future for the Palestinians who live in Gaza—Israel will never be able to claim victory in the broader battle for the moral high ground.

October 20, 2023

The international community, for its part, has failed miserably in its responsibility to broker peace and end the senselessness. For a year, global leaders have stood by, wringing their hands while the violence escalates, incapable or unwilling to step in and demand a cease-fire, negotiate a viable solution, or impose any meaningful consequences for war crimes. The United States, under President Biden, has sent mixed messages—offering tepid warnings to Israel while continuing to supply weapons. Meanwhile, Europe, once a voice for human rights, has largely remained silent as Gaza burns. The global community’s dysfunction and impotence are a tragedy of their own, enabling the continuation of violence and suffering.

News: War rages on multiple fronts as Israel marks a year since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack

Friedman also touches on a darker undercurrent in Israeli politics: Prime Minister Netanyahu’s apparent interest in prolonging the war to serve his own political needs. Facing corruption charges, Netanyahu has used the conflict to delay his day in court and to bolster his standing with his far-right allies, who demand total victory and the continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank. This political calculus, combined with a lack of coherent strategy, risks dragging Israel into a perpetual cycle of violence, one in which neither peace nor security can ever be fully achieved.

October 14, 2023

This anniversary is a grim reminder of what happens when extremism, short-term thinking, and cynical political maneuvering drive policy instead of a genuine commitment to peace. Hamas, with its embrace of terror and rejection of diplomacy, has done as much harm to the Palestinian cause as it has to Israeli civilians. Meanwhile, Israel’s military response, unchecked by the international community and lacking any clear endgame, has deepened the suffering of Palestinians and alienated the global moral support it once relied on.

But there is a way forward—if only the world will seize it. As Friedman suggests, the key lies in rebuilding a legitimate Palestinian partner for peace, one that is capable of leading Gaza and the West Bank toward statehood. The Palestinian Authority, despite its flaws, remains the only viable alternative to Hamas. Israel must support its reform and empower it to govern Gaza, as part of a broader vision of two states. At the same time, the international community must pressure Israel to halt settlement expansion and recognize that permanent occupation and endless war will never bring security or peace.

It is a bitter irony that, one year after the October 7 attacks, the future seems bleaker than ever for both Israelis and Palestinians. But it does not have to be this way. There is still a path toward peace, if leaders on all sides are willing to take it. That path, however, requires an end to violence, an end to cynicism, and a renewed commitment to the only solution that can ever bring lasting justice and security: two states for two peoples, living side by side. Anything less is not just a failure of leadership—it is a failure of humanity. (AI)

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Wednesday October 9, 2024

Cartoon an ‘inversion of reality’

October 9, 2024 letter

Graeme Mackay’s Oct. 8 cartoon depicted Israel’s prime minister fighting over a dove with Iran’s ayatollah, standing over a mountain of bones. This caricature drew an obscene moral equivalence.

One year ago, Hamas (an Iranian-backed terrorist proxy), launched the biggest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust. The next day, Hezbollah, another Iranian proxy, began firing 10,000 rockets indiscriminately into Israel. Soon the Houthis in Yemen and other groups allied with Iran joined in. All of them are sworn to Israel’s destruction.

And yet Israel — for refusing to lie down and die — is put in the same category as the genocidal maniacs who seek to destroy it, and whose followers have been rampaging on our streets for a year? This is akin to showing Hitler and Churchill fighting over a mountain of graves and is an absolute inversion of reality.

Robert Walker, assistant director, Honest Reporting Canada

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Thursday October 10, 2024

Innocents caught in the crossfire
Re: Cartoon an ‘inversion of reality’ Oct. 9

October 10, 2024

Graeme MacKay’s Oct. 8 cartoon depicted the reality of what is now happening in Gaza and the West Bank. What happened on Oct. 7, 2023, is pure horror for the people of Israel and for Jews around the world. As for how it was allowed to happen, the Israeli people deserve an honest answer.

For Israel, when it comes to defending its people, that is totally understandable. What the gentleman from HonestReporting Canada has failed to see is, peace is something that is earned. In all honesty whether it is Hamas, an extremely violent terrorist group, or prime minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu — both have caused the deaths of thousands of innocent people. The failure to see what has happened to these people is unconscionable.

Margo May Taylor, Ancaster

Thursday March 20, 2024

March 21, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 20, 2024

Canada Must Prioritize Defending Ukraine and Supporting Palestine: A Call to Action

January 31, 2024

In recent months, the world has witnessed two crises of immense proportions: the relentless assault on Ukraine by Vladimir Putin’s Russia and the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe facing Palestinians in Gaza. As Canada grapples with its role in addressing these urgent challenges, it is imperative that we reassess our priorities and shift resources towards resisting Putin’s aggression while offering much-needed aid and support to Palestine.

News: Trudeau government to stop sending arms to Israel once details are worked out, Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly says

February 16, 2026

The decision by the Trudeau government to cease arms exports to Israel represents a step in the right direction. It acknowledges the need to reassess our relationship with countries engaged in conflicts that perpetuate human suffering. However, as we take this crucial step, we must also recognize the pressing need to confront the brutal actions of Putin’s regime in Ukraine.

The conflict in Ukraine has reached a critical juncture, with reports indicating that Ukrainian forces are facing catastrophic shortages of ammunition and air defences. As Putin continues his ruthless campaign to expand Russia’s borders, it is incumbent upon Canada to stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and provide the support they need to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

News: US estimates Ukraine military shortages could grow catastrophic by late March

This support must go beyond mere words of condemnation. Canada has a moral obligation to act decisively in defence of democracy and freedom in Ukraine. This means redirecting resources previously allocated for arms sales to Israel towards bolstering Ukraine’s defence capabilities. It means providing military aid, training, and logistical support to ensure that Ukrainian forces have the tools they need to resist Putin’s aggression.

December 14, 2023

At the same time, Canada cannot turn a blind eye to the dire humanitarian situation facing Palestinians in Gaza. The recent escalation of violence has only exacerbated an already dire situation, with reports of widespread famine and suffering among the civilian population. As a nation committed to upholding human rights and dignity, Canada must step up its efforts to provide humanitarian aid and support to the people of Palestine.

This does not mean neglecting Ukraine or prioritizing one crisis over another. Rather, it requires a nuanced and balanced approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of these crises and the need for Canada to play a proactive role in addressing them both.

December 20, 2023

By shifting resources towards resisting Putin’s aggression in Ukraine while offering food, aid, and support to Palestine, Canada can demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights, promoting peace, and confronting tyranny wherever it may arise. Now is the time for Canada to take bold and decisive action in defence of freedom and justice around the world. The Ukrainian people and the Palestinians are counting on us.

The Vital Role of Satire in Upholding Democratic Values

In response to the recent demand for an apology by HonestReporting Canada regarding the above editorial cartoon published by The Hamilton Spectator and The Waterloo Record, it is crucial to address the misconceptions and unfounded accusations put forth by the complainant.

The letters to the editor published in The Hamilton Spectator were inspired by a very active lobby group that advocates on behalf of Israel’s government. It’s evident from the letter writers’ addresses, Scarborough, Montreal, and Toronto that these are not usual readers of this newspaper. Instead of working to point out true acts of intolerance, orchestrated pile ons such as these are aimed to gaslight editorial cartoonists and columnists into submission, to self-censor, and to stifle opinion.

Firstly, the demand for an apology stems from a gross misinterpretation of the purpose and nature of editorial cartoons. These cartoons serve as a form of satire, a fundamental aspect of free expression in democratic societies. Satire often employs exaggeration and caricature to highlight social and political issues, including the actions of political leaders and governments. It is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a means of commentary and critique.

My editorial cartoon in question, depicts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in military actions, juxtaposed with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement that Canada was halting arms sales to Israel. My mission as an editorial cartoonist includes observing Canada’s place in global affairs, and last week’s vote by Parliament to suspend arms shipments to the Netanyahu government was significant and warranted reaction. While the cartoon may appear provocative to some, its intention is clear: to comment on current events and political decisions in a satirical manner.

By Serge Chapleau. The true outrage is how veteran cartoonists get away with appropriating photographs in editorial cartoons. That needs to stop! Scroll down more about this cartoon below.

Furthermore, it is essential to recognize the pattern of silencing criticism of Netanyahu and the Israeli government by groups like HonestReporting Canada. Any form of dissent or critique is often met with accusations of antisemitism or defamation, effectively stifling open dialogue and debate. It is not the first time my cartoons have been baselessly targeted for being anti-Israel, or antisemitic. This tactic not only undermines the principles of free speech but also shields those in power from accountability and scrutiny.

The assertion that the cartoon constitutes antisemitism or promotes falsehoods about Israel’s actions is unsubstantiated and misleading. Criticizing the policies of a government, including Israel’s, does not equate to antisemitism. It is essential to differentiate between legitimate criticism of government actions and bigotry towards a particular group of people. One can can stand on humanitarian grounds demanding Hamas release the Israeli hostages, while at the same time demand the end of senseless killing of innocent Palestinian lives.

The complaint article also attempts to downplay the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the disproportionate impact of the conflict on Palestinian civilians. It is crucial to acknowledge the complexities of the situation, including the role of Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, in perpetuating violence and exploiting the suffering of civilians for political gain. Ignoring these realities only serves to undermine efforts towards a peaceful resolution and perpetuates misinformation.

Finally, satirical portrayals of Justin Trudeau or Pierre Poilievre are not anti-Canada, nor is a lampoon of Joe Biden or Donald Trump, anti-American. An editorial cartoon that ridicules a leader of Israel is not anti-Israel commentary.

January 27, 2024 – Spiked due to self censorship

The demand for an apology from The Hamilton Spectator and The Waterloo Record is baseless and undermines the principles of free expression and critical discourse essential to a democratic society. Editorial cartoons play a vital role in fostering public debate and holding power to account, and attempts to censor or silence them must be vehemently opposed.

HonestReporting Canada should redirect its efforts towards more constructive dialogue by effectively addressing instances of antisemitism where they genuinely exist, rather than attempting to silence editorial cartoonists where no antisemitism is present. By promoting understanding and tolerance rather than resorting to censorship and division, HonestReporting Canada can play a more meaningful role in fostering productive discourse and advancing genuine efforts towards peace and mutual respect. – Graeme MacKay

Letter to the Editor, The Waterloo Record, Saturday March 23, 2024

Cartoon missed the mark

I must protest the horrible cartoon you published on Thursday’s Opinion page, which totally misrepresents the truth in Gaza and Israel.

War is always ugly and terrible, but let’s get the facts straight! And stop these malignant caricatures!

I hope I will see an apology very soon.

Yosef Abramczyk, Montreal

Promote messages of tolerance – Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Monday March 25, 2024

For our community, the recent cancellation of the Hamilton Jewish Film Festival at the Playhouse Cinema echoed a distressing past reminiscent of Kristallnacht, which marked the start of widespread boycotts against Jews. Within this environment, I was filled with despair by the recent anti-Israel political cartoon of Graeme MacKay, published in The Hamilton Spectator. The abhorrent image stirred the memories of blood libels and was reminiscent of the antisemitic propaganda of Der Stürmer.

During these difficult times, when antisemitism is rearing its ugly and pernicious head, our community is in dire need of responsible leadership and a media presence that does not perpetuate antisemitic tropes. Our local media has a responsibility to foster coexistence rather than echoing the darkest chapters of history.

The Hamilton Spectator must take a stand against such narratives and promote a message of tolerance and inclusivity. It is crucial, now more than ever, that we learn from the past and commit to a future where all members of our community feel safe, respected and valued.

Daniel Green, rabbi of Adas Israel Congregation

Appalled and dismayed– Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Monday March 25, 2024

I am appalled and dismayed at your having decided to include in your March 21 publication the disgusting and misinformed cartoon produced by Graeme MacKay which equates the wars in Gaza and Ukraine and which depicts Israel as deliberately targeting innocent civilians and as being the main cause of Palestinian hunger and suffering.

Jeffrey Sugar, Scarborough

Shocked to see cartoon – Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Monday March 25, 2024

We are shocked that you would allow such an antisemitic cartoon in our paper in our city that has a large Jewish population. We trust you will apologize and not be so one-sided and research the truth of the conflict.

Bill and Judi Moffat, Burlington

Cartoon was shameful – Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Monday March 25, 2024

I must protest the cartoon you published, which totally misrepresents the truth in Gaza and Israel in a horrible, horrible way. Shame on you! Shame on the cartoonist! It’s not for me to demand any apology, but if you have any decency, I hope you will apologize.

Yosef Abramczyk, Montreal

Cartoon was offensive – Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, Monday March 25, 2024

How could you publish an editorial cartoon depicting Israel as committing state-sponsored terrorism against innocent Palestinian civilians? Factually wrong and offensive.

Esther M. Cantor, Toronto

Serge Chapleau’s recent cartoon depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a vampire has sparked heated controversy, with accusations of antisemitism echoing through the halls of public discourse. However, amidst the uproar, it’s crucial to recognize the vital role of political satire in challenging power structures and fostering critical dialogue.

At its core, Chapleau’s cartoon is a scathing commentary on Netanyahu’s leadership and policies, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By portraying Netanyahu as a vampire, Chapleau cleverly taps into the symbolism of vampirism, depicting a figure who metaphorically drains resources and perpetuates conflict. This metaphorical portrayal is a hallmark of political satire, aiming to provoke thought and discussion rather than perpetuate hate.

Critics argue that the vampire imagery evokes antisemitic tropes, drawing parallels to historical propaganda. However, it’s essential to distinguish between legitimate criticism of a political figure and bigotry. Chapleau’s cartoon does not target Netanyahu or Jewish people as a whole based on their ethnicity or religion. Instead, it targets Netanyahu’s actions and policies as a public figure, which are subject to scrutiny and critique like any other leader.

Furthermore, the Association of Canadian Cartoonists rightly points out that caricaturing world leaders is a common practice, and Netanyahu should not be exempt from such scrutiny. Satire serves as a check on power, holding leaders accountable for their decisions and behaviours. In this light, Chapleau’s cartoon is a bold assertion of free speech and artistic expression, essential pillars of democratic societies.

Someone who gets satire!

Moreover, the notion that Chapleau’s cartoon is inherently antisemitic ignores the nuanced context in which it was created. Chapleau himself has stated that he did not intend any antisemitic connotations with his cartoon. Instead, he aimed to use striking imagery to make a powerful statement about Netanyahu’s leadership. As such, accusations of antisemitism risk diluting the significance of genuine instances of bigotry and discrimination.

While Chapleau’s cartoon may be provocative and controversial, it serves a vital purpose in challenging authority and fostering public debate. Rather than stifling dissent, we should embrace satire as a tool for social commentary and reflection. By engaging with Chapleau’s cartoon in a thoughtful and critical manner, we can move beyond knee-jerk reactions and confront the complex issues it raises with nuance and empathy. (Graeme MacKay)

On April 6, 2024 an opinion piece by yours truly, Graeme MacKay, was printed in the Hamilton Spectator in answer to the fallout from this editorial cartoon.

Saturday January 27, 2024

January 27, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday January 27, 2024

When Cartoons Provoke Controversy… potentially

“The role of an editorial cartoonist is to provoke readers, not create controversy.”

This sage proclamation was once declared to me long ago by one of my first editorial overlords. It came not from who one might expect, a gruff old-timey journalist lecturing a potentially troublesome satirist. It came in my early days volunteering at my university campus student newspaper. From the dude with the important sounding title, “managing editor”. A guy I called a great friend, who I’d chum around with and drink beers with then and for years after. It’s a statement that I’ve tried to adhere to since hearing it in the late 1980’s while studying at the University of Ottawa. Yes, Sheldon Rae, I’m talking about you, my old friend!

As an editorial cartoonist, navigating the delicate waters of sensitive topics can be akin to walking a tightrope. Last week, I found myself grappling with the challenges that arise when an idea and sketch fail to align with the expectations of editorial gatekeepers, leading to the untimely demise of a concept – a fate commonly referred to in the industry as getting “spiked.”

January 12, 2024

The subject at hand was the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) investigating allegations of genocide committed by Israel against Palestinians in Gaza. The conflict’s complexity, fuelled by historical grievances and recent tragic events, has heightened global tensions, triggering a surge in pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli sentiments, along with a disturbing rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia.

In an attempt to capture the gravity of the situation, I crafted a cartoon depicting ICJ judges on a boat in the Mediterranean cautioning a menacing missile-bearing Benjamin Netanyahu, blood-soaked and hovering over a devastated Gaza. The rubble, blood-spatters, and a subtle nod to Hamas held hostages in tunnels aimed to provide a truthful illustration, addressing concerns that the plight of the hostages was fading from discussions amidst the demands for a ceasefire.

However, the path from sketch to publication proved treacherous. Only one out of numerous editors endorsed the cartoon, and even among them, reservations emerged. An editor at the Toronto Star, while appreciating the concept, expressed concerns about the use of blood and the reference to hostages. This internal editorial scrutiny is not uncommon when dealing with controversial subjects, especially those as sensitive and polarizing as the Israel-Gaza conflict.

November 4, 2016

Controversial topics naturally draw the attention of higher-ups in the newsroom, and the highest authority holds veto power. In this case, faced with limited endorsements and sensing potential backlash, I redirected my focus to a more politically neutral subject – Donald Trump. The decision spared me from a weekend filled with vitriolic reactions to a cartoon addressing a dire and depressing topic.

The context behind the spiked cartoon includes the ICJ’s provisional order, stating that it is “plausible” that Israel violated the Genocide Convention. The court called on Israel to take immediate measures to prevent acts prohibited by the convention and protect Gaza’s population from further risk of genocide. South Africa, presenting the case, alleged genocidal acts by Israel, emphasizing the extensive civilian casualties in Gaza.

The court’s ruling, legally binding but unenforceable, may exert pressure on Israel’s allies, including the U.S., which reiterated that the genocide allegations were “unfounded.” The ICJ’s decision, while not a verdict on genocide, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for international attention.

In the intricate dance between editorial creativity and the editorial room’s gatekeepers, the Israel-Gaza conflict stands as a formidable challenge. While the cartoon might have been a truthful portrayal, its potential impact on readers and the editorial decision-makers ultimately determined its fate. As controversies persist, editorial cartoonists continue to grapple with the delicate balance between artistic expression and editorial responsibility, knowing that not all battles are worth fighting on the pages of a newspaper. (AI)

Friday January 12, 2024

January 12, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday January 12, 2024

Questions and Actions on Gaza on Israel’s war on Hamas

December 20, 2023

In the wake of the recent hearing at the World Court where South Africa accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, skepticism looms large over the potential impact of any ruling on the actions against Israel through the United Nations. While the international community engages in a legal discourse, doubts persist about the ability of the UN to enforce meaningful measures should the court eventually rule in favour of South Africa’s case.

The gravity of the allegations, coupled with impassioned debates within the courtroom, paints a somber picture of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, history has shown us that the World Court’s decisions often encounter significant challenges when it comes to translating verdicts into tangible actions, particularly against powerful nations.

News: Israel officials support Gaza destruction, court hears

December 14, 2023

The term “genocide” itself carries immense weight, implying not only a moral failure but also demanding concrete steps to prevent further atrocities. The United Nations, as a global governing body, has been tasked with upholding justice and international law. However, its ability to enforce decisions remains questionable, leaving room for doubt regarding the effectiveness of any potential ruling in curbing Israel’s actions.

The cynicism surrounding the proceedings is not unfounded. In the past, instances where the World Court ruled against nations accused of grave violations, the actual implementation of sanctions or punitive measures has been limited. The lack of a robust enforcement mechanism within the UN, coupled with geopolitical complexities, often renders the court’s decisions toothless.

February 20, 2021

The skepticism is not confined to the courtroom; it extends to the international arena where political alliances and interests play a pivotal role. The powerful nations within the UN Security Council hold significant sway, making it challenging to orchestrate collective action against any member state, even in the face of serious allegations.

Additionally, the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, with its deep-rooted historical, religious, and geopolitical dimensions, further complicate the prospects of effective UN action. The political stalemate and divergent global perspectives on the matter cast shadows of doubt on the feasibility of translating a legal verdict into concrete, impactful measures.

As the world awaits the World Court’s decision and potential future actions by the United Nations, the skepticism prevailing in the minds of many is a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in addressing grave allegations on the international stage. The gap between legal discussions and practical measures underscores the need for a more robust and effective global governance system that can truly enforce justice and accountability, irrespective of the geopolitical intricacies at play. Until then, the world watches with bated breath, skeptical of any real change emerging from the corridors of the World Court and the chambers of the United Nations. (AI)