It would be understandable for a reader to look at the title and think, "Not another thing talking about what's going on in the Middle East. It doesn't affect me. Give it a rest." But I am not a journalist (whatever that term means these days, if you know what I mean), a professional researcher, or an academic or political pundit on foreign policy matters. Like you, I may be just another human observing what occurs worldwide.
Observing requires us to assess, interpret, and judge our environment. And to judge anything, we must have a standard to compare it to. What could that standard be? Well…it depends on many factors. But one of them, at least, is our perspective and opinions of how we see the world. In other words, our philosophical point of view. No one makes a judgment without a philosophical view of the world.
What do I mean by this?
Take, for example, a court judge. Although they base their judgments on local, state, or federal statutes and laws, judges have their perspectives through which they must interpret what they believe the law is meant to enforce. I'm not a court judge, but I imagine that if they are genuinely critical-thinking beings, judges also battle with applying specific laws they disagree with. This is the undeniable part of being a rational, thinking human being. Whether we like it or not, we all have an opinion about everything.
So, whether you disagree or agree with having to hear or read what is happening politically around the world, remember, you just made a philosophical judgment on whether or not to do it. There is no shame in that. But it is necessary to acknowledge such observation (no pun intended).
For this reason, I think it essential to observe and judge what we see, hear, and read that affects all of us. You might say, "How does what's happening in another hemisphere affect me?" At the moment, it may not. But does it remove the possibility that it could happen in the United States, your state, or your neighborhood? I would argue a BIG NO.
Apart from its theological history, the Israel-Palestine conflict posits a concern for the world to pay attention to. My goal is not to stir fear but, at least, to look at the issue and develop a coherent assessment of it. Then, based on that judgment, prompt a decision on whether the conclusion aligns with truth and reality. And here lies the purpose of any observation: to see if it aligns with truth and reality.
So, what is the truth and the reality of what's been happening in that region?
The Israel-Palestine conflict is a complex and deeply rooted issue, with both Israelis and Palestinians claiming the same land. It involves national identity, religion, territory, and the right to self-determination. External influences, geopolitical interests, and global power dynamics further exacerbate the issue.
Understanding this situation requires analysis beyond headlines and soundbites.
To form a coherent assessment, one must dive into the historical events that led to the current situation, including the Balfour Declaration, the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, subsequent wars, and the ongoing atrocities on innocent lives. Examining the impact of the Oslo Accords, the construction of settlements, and the role of international actors provides a broader context for the present circumstances.
It's essential to recognize that narratives surrounding the conflict vary widely depending on political perspective, cultural background, and sources of information. Some view it through the lens of historical injustice and the right to return, while others emphasize the right to security and existence. The truth, therefore, may not be a singular, easily definable entity but a spectrum of perspectives and experiences.
Nevertheless, the reality of the conflict affects the daily lives of innocent Israelis and Palestinians living in its shadow. It encompasses issues such as access to resources, freedom of movement, and the psychological toll of living in a protracted state of conflict. Human rights violations, acts of violence, and the humanitarian situation in the region add layers to the complexity of the issue.
While the conflict may seem distant and unrelated to some, its repercussions can be far-reaching. The geopolitical instability in the Middle East has global implications, affecting diplomatic relations, regional stability, and even the global economy. Most importantly, the rise of extremism and the potential for terrorist attacks worldwide emphasize the world's vulnerability.
Despite the initial skepticism one might have when confronted with yet another discussion on the Middle East, it is crucial to acknowledge the reality of this transnational problem. The Israel-Palestine conflict serves as a reminder that seemingly distant issues can have profound implications for individuals and communities around the globe. The U.S.-Mexico border and the lack of its protection and enforcement presents a direct threat to our democracy as an example of that implication. With thousands flooding the border every day, who's to say religious ideologues aren't formulating a similar scenario as on October 7th?
Therefore, the truth and reality of all this is that while engaging in thoughtful observation, critical thinking, and a commitment to understanding world events may contribute to a more informed society, the looming danger believed to be already on American soil may deem this knowledge useless.
There comes a point where making observations isn't enough. Forceful action may be the only way to stopping evil.
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