Started a few hours ago. Watching the constant stream of news was a bit too stressful for me, being as IsraeliDad is there. So instead, I went to watch last night’s episode of the Israeli version of Survivor.
I figured it would be an escapist venture away from our daily reality, however, this time the reality show lived up to the title of the genre (surprising, I know!) The show ended with an emotionally charged debate about… the Israeli-Arab conflict! And the Arab girl was kicked off the island btw.
So, back to reality here…
Been looking at the headlines and here’s something interesting – the President of the European Union stated that even a ground attack by Israel on Gaza will be considered a defensive measure in the eyes of the EU:
Reuters report: EU presidency says Israeli action is defensive
In previous posts, I have mentioned how I think Hamas did not realize that shooting rockets at Israel’s towns will not lessen the support for the government here. Quite the opposite – the more they shoot, the more people support the government in its actions against Hamas.
Now it seems like they may have misjudged the response of the international community as well. Some would say that the support of the US is a given in this case, but it is refreshing to see that the Europeans seem to understand that Israel was left with little choice in the matter.
And still – all Hamas has to do, even this evening, this very hour, is declare a one-sided ceasefire. If they do that, Israel simply cannot go on with an attack. Now, what are the odds of that happening? 
Please keep the people of Gaza in your thoughts and prayers tonight – I know they are in mine, and they’re going to need all the good vibes they can get.
Peace.
on Jan 5th, 2009 at 7:23 am
“being as IsraeliDad is there”
There where? with the IDF in Gaza?
I wish him safety and a prompt return home…
m.
BTW, on Europe: I think the support of the Czech republic was also a given – Eastern Europe is generally more aligned with the US than with (continental) Western Europe.
Mo-ha-meds last blog post..Just so we’re very clear: on Hamas
on Jan 6th, 2009 at 3:39 am
Yes, with the IDF in Gaza. Not inside… I think and hope. He’s been there for 10 days now, doing reserve duties. We talk on the phone sometimes and I get to hear the calls for cover against the rockets and mortar shells. They feel way too close
Thank you for your good wishes – I miss him real real real bad. We’ve been together for almost 14 years now and he’s my best friend, my soulmate, my lover and the father of my children. We’re used to being together all the time, and not having him around is tough on me and the kids. I know I shouldn’t be complaining, as others are suffering so much worse in this war, but me and the kids really want him back home, ASAP. So, yeah, I have a strong personal reason to wish this round over – preferably yesterday.