Israel"s Economy: Built on Oppression of Palestinians and Global Exports
- Israel has become the largest per capita exporter of arms, particularly during the Cold War, aided by U.S. military support.
- The militarization of the economy has been fueled by foreign aid and the development of technologies for social control, often at the expense of Palestinian rights.
- The intertwining of military actions and economic growth has created a cycle of accumulation that perpetuates oppression and has global implications.
Israel's economy has been significantly shaped by its military actions and the oppression of Palestinians. The country has become the largest per capita exporter of arms, particularly during the Cold War, when U.S. military support facilitated this growth. Israeli leaders promoted weapons sales to manage foreign debt and fund industrial development, with Latin American dictators as key clients. The arms trade has been linked to human rights violations, as seen in Nicaragua under Somoza, where Israeli weapons were used to suppress revolutions. Following the 9/11 attacks, Israeli leaders leveraged their counterinsurgency expertise to strengthen ties with the U.S. and influence the global war on terror. This relationship has fostered a form of colonialism, with Israeli veterans establishing firms that develop advanced technologies for social control, capitalizing on the ongoing occupation. The U.S. has portrayed Israel as a model of innovation while neglecting the plight of Palestinians. The militarization of the Israeli economy has been further fueled by foreign aid, leading to increased military exports, particularly to Arab states. The Gaza Strip has become a testing ground for Israel's drone technology, reflecting a broader trend of securing clients through disregard for human rights. The military occupation has not only resulted in humanitarian crises but has also become a profitable export, contributing to Israel's economic growth. In summary, the intertwining of Israel's economy with its military actions against Palestinians has created a cycle of accumulation that benefits the state while perpetuating oppression. This dynamic has significant implications for both regional stability and international relations, as the consequences of these actions continue to resonate globally.