I am Jewish and very proud of my religion and heritage but I cannot say that I am proud of the state of Israel. It is hard for me to talk about this issue but I feel that I must.
I wish my country of Israel would make a stronger effort in the world to promote peace. I understand that many countries in the region do not believe in her existence and continue to have anti-Semitic views and actions, but Israel is here to stay and must take a lead role in the world to promote peace.
We are dealing with a very sensitive situation in the Middle East, but given that we are one of the most powerful countries in the region (thanks to the help from the U.S.) we must make a stronger effort for peace.
Why must we keep building settlements on Palestinian land in the West Bank? The U.S. opposes it, and the people there are led by a U.S. supported, elected government. Why must we use excessive military force, killing innocent civilians in Gaza? Why must we blockade humanitarian aid to those in need? Why must we build another Berlin Wall through Palestinian land? I just do not understand.
"Defending ourselves" just does not justify ALL these actions. Peace talks can also be looked at as a form of "defense." A peaceful solution with the Palestinians will ultimately lead to more peace with Israel and its neighbors. Many anti-Israel countries use this conflict as justification to hate Israel.
