When a situation becomes unacceptable

For a little while now we have been building up to an increasingly volatile international situation, coming to a head in the next few days and then in the next few weeks.  Israel's attack on the Gaza aid convoy over the weekend may prove to be a catalyst in this, and also an opportunity for a long-overdue resolution of its war with Palestine.

Sometimes events are so unacceptable they force people to confront the underlying situation rather than pretending everything is alright.  For years the Palestininan people have suffered terribly, and while a sort of a supply system has been created there is still great hardship.  Where, in this day and age, are their human rights?  What has the rest of the world done about it?

By writing in this way I am not saying one side is right and the other is wrong - I pass no judgement here.  However, as an international community we have a chance now, at this point in time, to help break the deadlock of decades peacefully, by insisting on change.  Israel feels isolated and needs friends, the Palestinians need help.  Surely, rather than trying to apportion blame and punishment while wringing our hands and standing back, we can work constructively with everyone involved to achieve a fair compromise, shared responsibility and a middle east community which is at ease with itself?

When a situation becomes unacceptable it has to change.  I believe we are seeing the start of a new cycle of energy here.  How it will manifest is up to all the protagonists, including the determination of western nations, but I am hopeful that, after a rocky period to come, we will indeed see peace in the region.