we're not the boss of you now

From The New York Times: On Arab TV Network, Obama Urges Dialogue

Obama's first interview is with Dubai-based Al Arabiya. He strikes "a conciliatory tone toward the Islamic world, saying he wanted to persuade Muslims that 'the Americans are not your enemy.'" About the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he says: "Ultimately, we cannot tell either the Israelis or the Palestinians what’s best for them. They’re going to have to make some decisions, but I do believe that the moment is ripe for both sides to realize that the path that they are on is not going to result in prosperity and security for their people. And that, instead, it’s time to return to the negotiating table."

This seems like a good move. He not only says, hey guys, we don't want to fight, let's talk about this, specifically to Iran, he also says, basically, that we can't tell you how to live, and if you disagree with me, I'm not going to call you a terrorist. I reserve that for those who actually killing civilians.

I'm glad. I don't want our country to be the boss. We don't know any better than anyone else. I'm glad we have a president now who recognizes that.

hey guys, let's get along. c'mon, s'mores.

From BBC News: Israel 'to announce Gaza truce'

That's good. But Hamas says that Israeli troops have to leave Gaza and the blockade has to be lifted for them to honor a ceasefire. Wonder if that'll happen? The Israelis say they'll strike back if attacked.

I'm so glad I don't live in a place of constant warfare.

whoops, you pissed off the turks

From BBC News: Turkey rallies to Gaza's plight

Turkey is pissed about Israel bombing relief facilities in the Gaza Strip, too.

Israel wonders why people don't try to put pressure on the Hamas to put an end to the conflict.

Maybe because you're blocking aid to Gaza and destroying food, water, and medical supplies? Just saying.

out of line

From Al Jazeera: Israel shells hospital, UN compound

This is horrible. "[T]housands and thousands of tonnes of food, medical supplies and other emergency assistance are there."

I understand the Israelis want to cut down on the weapons going into Palestinian Gaza, but destroying medical facilities and neutral UN aid is unacceptable.

I know Barack Obama has indicated he will give at least some support to Israel. But he really needs to take a hard line on this conflict. I definitely don't have any suggestions (I still don't even understand why we and the UN thought it was a good idea to just take someone's country and give it to someone else in the first place), but something concilitory needs to happen there.