Economic globalization appears to have made corporate America more sensitive than Washingtons political class to Arab political concerns. After all, Hillary Clinton doesnt have to fear an Arab backlash at the ballot box when she stumps for New York votes by publicly urging her husband to recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital. But Disney stands to lose up to $150 million a year in an Arab boycott of its products. Despite Eisners assurances, Arab League officials are still demanding the right to inspect the "Millennium Village" before its opening to ensure that Islamic and Christian claims on Jerusalem are respected. And the sites producers are left with the headache of creating an entertainment and education program that reconciles competing claims on the citys identity. But hey, they dont call it the Magic Kingdom for nothing.
Jerusalem's Status? Leave It to Mickey Mouse
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One mans Jerusalem is another mans Al Quds. And if you think rival claims on the city are a nightmare for Israeli and Palestinian negotiators, spare a thought for the poor old Disney corporation. Disney is under pressure over the Jerusalem exhibit at its planned "Millennium Village" in Florida, designed to offer an interactive window, complete with crafts and indigenous entertainment, into 40 different cultures. Arab League members had threatened over the past week to launch a boycott of Disney products to protest the theme parks designation of Jerusalem as Israels capital, prompting CEO Michael Eisner to give the assurance that the Holy City wont be called anyones capital. It was reported Tuesday that Eisner had assured Saudi Arabias Prince Al Walid bin Talal, a major shareholder in EuroDisney, that the corporation would steer clear of the controversy. Last month, Burger King found itself in similar straits after it opened an outlet in an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank. The Home of the Whopper withdrew its franchise after activists threatened a boycott of its burgers throughout the Islamic world.