The Claim: "Austrian ex-chancellor Kreisky was pro-Palestinian"

Introduction

The assertion that Bruno Kreisky, the former Chancellor of Austria, was pro-Palestinian is rooted in his political actions and statements during his tenure from 1970 to 1983. Kreisky's approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been characterized by some as supportive of Palestinian rights, particularly through his diplomatic engagements with Palestinian leaders and his criticism of Israeli policies. This article will explore the context of Kreisky's political stance, the evidence supporting this claim, and the perspectives that challenge it.

What We Know

1. Political Background: Bruno Kreisky served as Austria's Chancellor from 1970 to 1983 and was a prominent figure in the Social Democratic Party. His tenure is noted for a focus on social reforms and a foreign policy that sought to maintain Austria's neutrality while engaging with global issues, including the Middle East conflict 410.

2. Engagement with Palestinian Leadership: Kreisky was the first Western leader to meet with Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), in 1979. This meeting was significant as it symbolized a shift in diplomatic recognition of Palestinian leadership at a time when many Western nations were hesitant to engage with Arafat 89.

3. Statements on Israeli Policies: Kreisky was vocal in his criticism of Israeli policies, particularly during the late 1970s. He referred to Israel as a "police state" and condemned its actions, such as the 1981 attack on Iraq's nuclear reactor 89. His administration also supported pro-Palestinian resolutions at the United Nations 9.

4. Equidistance Policy: Kreisky advocated for a policy of equidistance between Arab states and Israel, arguing that Austria should maintain a balanced stance rather than favoring one side over the other. He described this approach as essential for Austria's foreign policy 6.

5. Criticism from Israel: Kreisky's pro-Palestinian stance led to criticism from Israeli officials, who viewed his policies as biased against Israel. His recognition of the PLO and support for Palestinian statehood were particularly contentious 37.

Analysis

The claim that Kreisky was pro-Palestinian is supported by several credible sources, including historical accounts and news articles from reputable outlets. For instance, The Washington Post and The New York Times provide detailed accounts of Kreisky's diplomatic engagements and his criticisms of Israeli policies, which align with the characterization of him as pro-Palestinian 359.

However, it is essential to evaluate the potential biases in these sources. The Washington Post and The New York Times, while generally reliable, may have their own editorial slants that could influence how they report on political figures like Kreisky. Additionally, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, which reported on Kreisky's death and his political legacy, may have a perspective that emphasizes Jewish concerns regarding Kreisky's policies, potentially framing them in a negative light 9.

Moreover, while Kreisky's actions suggest a pro-Palestinian stance, it is crucial to consider the broader context of his foreign policy. His approach was not solely focused on Palestinian issues; it was part of a larger strategy of maintaining Austria's neutrality and fostering dialogue in a complex geopolitical landscape. This multifaceted approach complicates the narrative of Kreisky as simply pro-Palestinian.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly True

The claim that Bruno Kreisky was pro-Palestinian is mostly true, as evidenced by his diplomatic engagements with Palestinian leaders, particularly his historic meeting with Yasser Arafat in 1979, and his vocal criticisms of Israeli policies. Kreisky's support for pro-Palestinian resolutions at the United Nations further supports this characterization. However, it is important to recognize that Kreisky's foreign policy was not exclusively pro-Palestinian; he advocated for a balanced approach between Arab states and Israel, which adds complexity to the claim.

The limitations of the available evidence include potential biases in the sources consulted and the lack of direct quotes from Kreisky that could clarify his motivations. Additionally, the perspectives of those who opposed his policies are not fully explored, which could provide a more nuanced understanding of his stance.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the broader context of Kreisky's political actions and the geopolitical landscape of his time.

Sources

1. Kreisky, Israel, and Jewish Identity | The University of New Orleans. Link
2. Letter to Former Chancellor Bruno Kreisky of Austria on Arms Control and European Public Opinion | Ronald Reagan. Link
3. EX-AUSTRIAN CHANCELLOR BRUNO KREISKY DIES AT 79 - The Washington Post. Link
4. Bruno Kreisky - Wikipedia. Link
5. EXPRESS CONCERN OVER ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS: Chancellor Bruno Kreisky of Austria - The New York Times. Link
6. Kreisky Defends Move ‘as an Austrian’ - The New York Times. Link
7. How Austria's Jewish chancellor helped country evade responsibility for Nazi past | The Times of Israel. Link
8. How Hitler’s homeland became Israel’s European BFF - Politico. Link
9. Bruno Kreisky, Austrian Leader Criticized by Israel, Dead at 79 - Jewish Telegraphic Agency. Link
10. Bruno Kreisky: Austrian Leadership and Diplomacy at its Best - iGlobenews. Link