Is it just me or is the international reaction to the situation in Gaza now piddly-wicks when compared to the international reaction to the situation in Georgia in August?
When Russia invaded Georgia in order to "liberate" South Ossetia and Abkhazia, there were talks of sanctions on Russia. This would have been a big deal going into winter what with Gazprom and all. Now, the situation in Georgia is still muddled to me, it seems that the Georgians might have been mistreating the members of these regions, or it might be exaggerated. Russia probably had some pretty bizarre motives for their action too, not the least of which is Putin trying to cobble together a new empire. What I do know is that there was a huge media and political outpouring against Russia's actions because it seemed to be doing the most damage, while being in the strongest position.
Cut to now. Israel is in the same, or very similar, boat as Russia. While they have reasons to do what they are doing, they seem to be doing the most damage, from a position of strength. They have also been mistreating the Gazans for a while now. After all, terrorist groups rarely spring up in areas of happy-go-lucky people (I'm talking to you Canada.) But aside from the finger-pointing (which I admit I take part in just as much as the next) where is the international determination to stop Israel's actions? Sure, European countries are saying they might do something if Israel doesn't stop. But if there is one thing history teaches us about Europe...anyway, that's a discussion I won't delve into.
Maybe the resolve is there and I just don't see it. Perhaps the Europe I know is different from the Europe that is. Maybe Sarkozy is standing in Livni's chamber right now, telling him to stop or there will be repercussions. Maybe Sarkozy is telling Barak not to end up like G Dubya. Or, maybe Sarkozy is basking in what was a successful EU presidency. Perhaps we need someone else to take this new task up. However, with elections taking place around the world, the baton being passed in international organizations and economic turmoil abounding, who will take it up? Who has the time to really stand up and do something the US has been unable to do for over sixty years? Who has the ability to give Israel the giant, loving B-slap it needs?
Peace
P.S.- If anyone has an article concerning a strong Euro reaction, feel free to post it. I just haven't been able to find anything comparable.
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Comments: 3
Or perhaps you see the Israelis as not just simply being primarily at fault, but completely at fault.
Or have I misinterpreted the thrust of your Post?
I am being sincere, not sarcastic....
The Russian mess is another matter. And it's a mess ... still on going ...
Peter- Israel could grant the people of the Gaza Strip basic human rights. That might be a step in the right direction. Otherwise, the terrorists will continue to play into the hands of politicians and innocent people will continue to die on both sides. As far as Israel showing restraint... I'm not sure that what they did wasn't a calculated move to swing public opinion in their favor. Maybe not. I have a deep and devout love of the state of Israel. The hope and promise that state holds is similar to that which the United States once held, we squandered our possibilities and I hope they don't do the same.
I appreciate your posts and if you have any questions as to how I came to my set of beliefs I can direct you to some literature I have read over the past five years of my studies.
Peace.