Understanding Muslim Prejudices toward Israel during the British Mandate Period in Palestine: How the U.S. Can Win the Hearts and Minds of People in the Middle East
Abstract
The United States and Israel are engaged in a costly war that could last for decades. Israel has fought in multiple wars with the Palestinians just to maintain its existence, and since 9/11 the United States and its coalition allies have aggressively pursued Al-Qaeda and its network. The United States defeated the Taliban government in Afghanistan, and the dictator Saddam Hussein's government in Iraq. But while winning the war on the ground, the United States is having a difficult time winning public opinion among Muslims, many of whom believe the Al-Qaeda propaganda. If the United States is not able to gain popular support among the Muslim countries, then it may be fighting Islamic extremists indefinitely. Since the United States is at war with an organization that has no country, no geographical boundary, and does not fight a military vs. military style of warfare, the United States has to diminish public support for radical Islam and marginalize its cause. Islamic extremists use propaganda in the media, at rallies, in mosques, and today, on the internet, to advance their agenda with the public against the West, namely the United States and Israel. However, to minimize terrorism and stabilize the Middle East, Muslim governments must recognize Israel's right to exist and end terrorism against Israel and the United States. To accomplish this, the United States needs a long-term, aggressive public affairs strategy that creates widespread understanding through religious, cultural, and political interaction among Muslim countries, the United States, and Israel. This strategy must discredit those people and organizations who spread animosity, hatred, and anti-Judeo/Christian rhetoric toward the United States and Israel. The author reviews the history of the State of Israel and the Arab-Israeli conflict, analyzes Islamic extremist propaganda during the British Mandate period, and applies lessons learned to developing strategies to gain the support of Muslims worldwide.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA475527
Entities
People
- Michael G. Tirone
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College