In addition , Bard has criticized the Middle Eastern Studies Association ( MESA ) for adopting a pro-Palestinian standpoint . Bard has also alleged that MESA marginalizes non-Israel-related topics including the Kurdish – Turkish conflict and the persecution of religious and ethnic minorities like Middle Eastern Jews , Christians , and non-Arabs . Finally , Bard has contended that since the September 11 attacks , the Arab lobby working through Middle Eastern Studies university departments have sought to influence pre-university education by tailoring education programs and resources to reflect a pro-Arabist agenda
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
The Arab Lobby