Jimmy Carter's Views on Israel: A Shifting Story

Former President Jimmy Carter, known for his role in the Camp David Accords that brought peace between Israel and Egypt, had a complicated relationship with Israel. He believed that the debate in the U. S. about Israel's treatment of Palestinians was often one-sided and influenced by pro-Israel lobbyists and media. In a 2006 book titled "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, " Carter compared Israel's actions in Palestinian territories to South Africa's apartheid system, sparking controversy. The book triggered a strong reaction, with many of Israel's supporters criticizing Carter for exaggerating the situation and misstating facts. Several members of The Carter Center's advisory board even resigned in protest. They felt Carter had shifted from neutrality to outspoken criticism. Carter defended his stance, noting that Palestinians faced significant restrictions in the West Bank. He argued that the conditions were comparable to apartheid. In a later speech at Brandeis University, he clarified that he used the term "apartheid" to draw attention to the harsh conditions in occupied Palestinian territories, not to equate Zionism with racism. While some critics of Israel praised Carter for his honesty, others saw his approach as too harsh. One of the resigned advisers, Steve Berman, later apologized after reconsidering his stance. He realized that Carter might have been right all along. This shift in Carter's views shows how perspectives on complex issues can evolve over time, even for prominent figures.