An anti-Israel group has managed to put a question calling for sale of Israeli-related investments on the ballot in Somerville again this year. Even though this time it is non-binding and framed as an instruction to the state representative on how to vote on such a resolution for all state entities, the idea is still appalling.

The Somerville Divestment Project also has yet another non-binding resolution on the ballot, again cast as an instruction to the state rep, this time to vote for a non-binding resolution urging the federal government “to support the right of all refugees, including Palestinian refugees, to return to their land of origin.”

This is a dreadful idea too. The return of the 1948 refugees and their descendants, about 3 million people, would swamp the Jewish state. Those who support this proposal surely know that.

Two years ago Mayor Joe Curtatone was eloquent in opposition to an unsuccessful mandatory divestment resolution aimed at the city government. He has not changed his mind.

“They do nothing to promote real dialogue, peace or justice either here in Somerville or in the Middle East,” Curtatone said. “They represent a wasteful and inappropriate use of the ballot initiative system.”

Well put. These questions should be defeated.