Eitan Shamir, a former Israeli Defense Forces soldier and an architect of inhumane military strategies, currently holds a teaching position at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). More than a decade ago, Shamir became notoriously associated with the "mowing the grass" metaphor, a phrase that sanitizes the idea of relentless military attacks on Palestinians. He has been a key figure in promulgating these views through his leadership at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA Center), an Israeli think tank focused on military operations.

I urge the administration at UCSD to reconsider Shamir's role within the institution. Removing him from this platform would send a clear message in support of peace, respect for human rights, and the responsibility of academia to nurture knowledge without the stain of militaristic agendas.

Please join me in calling for UCSD to align its staff with its mission of respect, dignity, and peace. Let’s take a stand to ensure our educational spaces remain free from influences that condone genocide, like this war criminal. Sign the petition and make your voice heard in advocating for a just and harmonious academic environment.