‘…Yeah, We Wept, When We Remembered Zion’

Mutual Respect and Understanding: Lessons, We are yet to Learn

The situation in the Gaza Strip remains highly complex and tense, with dire consequences for the Palestinian inhabitants

472 people lost their lives in Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza; thousands suffered injuries in a highly contentious air raid on the hospital. Approximately one-third of Gaza’s population consists of children. When Israel drops phosphorus bombs, it’s the children who are desperately fleeing the deadly white plumes.The disruption of food and water supplies by Israel is exacerbating the situation. Hospitals are on the verge of running out of electricity.

The song “By the Rivers of Babylon” by Boney M, released in 1978, conveys a Rastafarian ‘spiritual’ message. It draws on the historical context of the Jewish exile to Babylon and their yearning to return to Israel as a metaphor to express dissatisfaction with the oppressive Jamaican government.
In July 586 BC, the Babylonian Empire achieved a momentous victory by capturing Jerusalem, a pivotal event that culminated in the destruction of the First Temple and the devastating burning of the city. 

The actions of Hamas are appalling, but it is essential to remember that the children in Gaza are innocent and should not be held responsible for the actions of terrorists. The responsibility for children’s well-being is a global concern, and it’s unfortunate that political biases often influence the stance taken in conflicts. The presence of evil in the form of terrorist groups and powerful states, as well as the geopolitical complexities that often prioritize national interests over justice. 

Can the politicians do it?Albert Einstein famously said, “We cannot solve problems at the same level of thinking that we were at when we created those problems.” Joe Biden, who ashamedly vetoed the Brazilian ceasefire proposal, promptly travelled to Tel Aviv, with Sunak following suit, to demonstrate their solidarity. In such situations, it is essential for the apolitical international community to promote peace, justice, and humanitarian assistance, while also working toward resolutions that can help mitigate the suffering and address the root causes of conflict. It is crucial for impartial global authorities to intervene promptly. Notably, Bertrand Russell played a role in advocating for a ceasefire during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.

Recognizing the distinct national identities of Israelis and Palestinians is crucial for a lasting political solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

“Many people seem to have been amazed that I should mediate in such matters without having any official status to do so, but I think events show that, even in our highly organized world, there are things that a private individual can do which are much more difficult for a Minister or an organization. In particular, it is much easier to agree with a powerless individual without loss of face than it is to agree with those whose arguments are backed by H-bombs of almost infinite destructive power.” 

-Bertrand Russell: ‘Unarmed Victory’- Penguin- 1963
The situation in the Gaza Strip remains highly complex and tense, with dire consequences for the Palestinian inhabitants. It is vital to approach this issue with sensitivity and seek a peaceful and just resolution that respects the rights and pride of all. Rather than aiming on destruction, international efforts should be directed into finding a path toward a more stable and just future in the region.

Joe Biden and Rishi Sunak’s visits to Israel during the conflict with Hamas coincide with the perception of an overwhelming majority of Israelis who hold Benjamin Netanyahu responsible for the deadly Hamas attacks. Hamas has issued a call for Muslims worldwide to protest in support of Palestinians on Friday. Similar appeals by the Islamist group following Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip previously led to tens of thousands of people gathering across Europe to protest against military actions.

Relying on accurate and up-to-date news sources is essential for understanding the current situation, and diplomatic and peaceful solutions should always be pursued to prevent and resolve conflicts. Prioritizing dialogue, cooperation, and diplomacy is crucial for maintaining stability and promoting peace in the international arena.
Various international actors, including the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, are all politically biased. However, a comprehensive resolution remains elusive. The Israel-Palestine conflict is a deeply rooted and multifaceted issue with profound implications for the people living in the region. Efforts to find a peaceful and just resolution continue, with many challenges and obstacles to overcome.

The state of Israel, established in the face of significant opposition, has faced conflicts in 1948, 1956, 1967, and 1973, yet managed to survive and expand. In 1967, Israel reclaimed Jerusalem, a city with deep historical roots. The ongoing regional conflicts have created a complex security challenge. While Israel’s establishment fulfilled a long-standing dream, the enduring blessings promised in ancient times remain elusive. 
This tenacity paved the way for the realization of prophetic words from the Torah, scribed over 3,500 years ago. In 1948, with the support of the United Nations, the Jewish people witnessed the miraculous rebirth of the modern state of Israel, fulfilling ancient prophecies articulated by Moses.

What motivated them to deliberately target a hospital and its defenseless occupants. All humanity should take action to stop this unprecedented brutality in Gaza. This historical context serves to highlight the long and complex history of the Jewish people in the region, marked by periods of displacement, occupation, and dispersion. It is important to recognize the historical experiences of both Israelis and Palestinians in order to better understand the roots of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 
Recognizing the distinct national identities of Israelis and Palestinians is crucial for a lasting political solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Each community has a rich cultural and religious heritage, deeply ingrained in their collective identity. A democratic solution should address the legitimate needs of both parties, avoiding oversimplification, and fostering productive peace-building efforts. This is a cardinal requirement for a successful resolution.

It is through collective compassion, backing for human rights, and diplomatic efforts that we can work to alleviate the suffering of those affected by such crises and strive for a more just and peaceful world for all.
Since Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 6, 1973, exactly 50 years ago, with the intention of forcing the country to the negotiating table to cede control of the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights, ferocity subsided. Many may have believed the conflict had come to an end. However, beneath the surface, smoldering residues continued to pose a threat, ultimately leading to an unprecedented disaster when sparks were reignited on 7th October `23. 

This situation serves as a vital lesson for all Sri Lankans, including extremists from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. It highlights the necessity of understanding the root causes of ethnic tensions, going beyond surface manifestations. It’s crucial to grasp the complex factors underlying these issues. In this pursuit, it is imperative that individuals from all backgrounds come together, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation that transcends differences, ultimately building a nation where every citizen can thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.

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