I recognize as citizens of the United States we have the right to publish our opinions — no matter how misguided, poorly researched or morally questionable they may be. When I read an article in my own college newspaper condemning Israel for defending itself as thousands of rockets have been hurled into the state and into civilian towns, I was truly disgusted by the lack of thought put into the writing. There was no substance. No facts. Just an out-of-context quote from Nelson Mandela. This is not good journalism, this just sounds like anti-Semitic garbage. I find it comical that people could think it’s acceptable for terrorists to blow themselves up on a public bus in Israel because we all know that would never be tolerated in the U.S. Furthermore, to accuse Israel of ethnic cleansing? Maybe these two individuals are unaware of Hamas’ warning to Israel: “We love death more than you love life.” Please share with these two “journalists” some actual facts, a concept they seem to confuse with poorly (at best) researched opinions.
Sixty-four trucks of food were transferred from Israel to Gaza
Sixteen trucks of medical supplies were transferred from Israel.
Twenty-six patients in need of care entered Israel from Gaza for medical treatment.
Israel has halted attacks when civilians are in danger because Hamas uses its own citizens as human shields.
Hamas hides its rockets near residential homes, playgrounds and mosques.
I could go on and on.
Look, I appreciate that people have the right to their own opinion. However, as a UF student who has family and friends in Israel, I find this article extremely offensive and uneducated. Many Gators work hard to combat anti-Semitism, and articles like this just spread it further. If the content was true, it would be one thing, but quite frankly, Israel is the furthest thing from an apartheid state. Next time, do some research.
