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The humanitarian aid flotilla headed towards Gaza was attacked in a pre-dawn raid in international waters by Israeli commandos on May 31. At least 10, out of the nearly 700 people on board (most of whom were peace activists, journalists, former members of the parliament and ambassadors from around the world), have been killed.
Pakistani journalist and executive producer of Aaj TV, Talat Husain, producer Raza Mehmood Agha and the chief of Khubaib Foundation, Nadeem Ahmed Khan were on board when the raid was conducted. Although their whereabouts are unknown, Interpol has informed Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani that they are safe.
The flotilla included three passenger ships and three cargo ships, with most casualties reported on the Mavi Marmara. Currently 480 activists are being held by Israelis while 48 have been expelled.
The Israeli attack on innocent civilians has sparked worldwide outrage, with the Turkish prime minister recalling its ambassador in Israel. However, despite protests and international outcry, according to the Israeli government spokesman, Mark Regev, the people on the flotilla were not peaceful in any way:
“They are part of the IHH, which is a radical Turkish Islamist organisation which has been investigated by Western governments and by the Turkish government itself in the past for their links with terrorist organisations."
But the Turkish Prime Minister has rejected any such claim. "I want to say to the world, to the heads of state and the governments, that these boats that left from Turkey and other countries were checked in a strict way under the framework of the rules of international navigation and were only loaded with humanitarian aid," he said.
Politician Ijazul Haq has constantly been tweeting about the attack on the flotilla, calling for immediate action against Israel:
“Isn't the attack on Floats of Peace by Israel a fit case for US to support the poor Palestinians for an independent state” and, “The US needs to stop giving aid to Israel. Israel has 52 additional states in the US while the US is depending on its only state - Israel.”
But this isn’t the first time the Israeli’s have attacked aid supplies to Gaza as Ahmed Noor writes for The Huffington Post.
Former US Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney was arrested by the Israelis in 2009 in an attempt to cross the Gaza Stip to provide medical supplies and crayons for children. She released an audiotape from the Israeli prison:
“This is Cynthia McKinney and I'm speaking from an Israeli prison cellblock in Ramle. [I am one of] the Free Gaza 21, human rights activists currently imprisoned for trying to take medical supplies to Gaza, building supplies – and even crayons for children, I had a suitcase full of crayons for children. While we were on our way to Gaza the Israelis threatened to fire on our boat, but we did not turn around. The Israelis high-jacked and arrested us because we wanted to give crayons to the children in Gaza. We have been detained, and we want the people of the world to see how we have been treated just because we wanted to deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza”
For a little background on the flotilla and its cargo, check CNN’s informative piece which provides a background on why the flotilla was headed towards Gaza.
Al Jazeera has been maintaining a live blog providing in depth coverage of the events, which also includes official statements issued by other countries and UN officials.
The views expressed by this blogger and in the following reader comments do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Dawn Media Group.
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Comments (106) Closed
Jun 01, 2010 11:58am
Gaza is ruled by a terrorist group who indiscriminately kill innocent women and children with terrorist attacks and missiles. Further, they murder their own people by placing them in the way of harm...hiding missiles and weapons in schools and mosques. Israel withdraw all troups from Gaza and what did they get...non-stop missiles terrorizing innocent women and children. The intent of this flotilla was not to deliver goods to Gaza, it was to provoke Israel and draw an international response. Israel offered to screen the supposed "humanitarian aid" and then deliver it to Gaza, but this was turned down by the organizers of this charade. Israeli soldiers attempted a non-violent diversion of this flotilla when it's soldiers were attacked by murderous thuds. Why don't the terrorists in Gaza give up their missiles and arms, stop it's terrorist activities, and stop terrorizing and surpressing their own population. Then Israel will eliminate the blockade, and flotillas will not be necessary.
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Jun 02, 2010 07:51am
The fact is that there is no solution, because the Palestinians will just not comprise.
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Jun 01, 2010 01:16pm
Look the fact is, this was INTERNATIONAL WATERS. Anyone who boards the ship(s) of another nation in international waters, without consent or invitation, is committing an international crime. You really must be one of those people, even if Israel kills most of the Palestinian population in a holocaust you would STILL not find any problem with it and blame it on the real victims.
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Jun 01, 2010 01:27pm
Israel and US is on one side, the rest of the world on the other side. Israel has professional army which is capable of international operations & hostage rescue practices. Thus, it could have intervened without any loss of lives.
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Jun 01, 2010 01:50pm
If Israel confiscated flotilla cameras, that means the only available footage is IDF footage. You should all question what that means.
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Jun 01, 2010 01:53pm
Your illogical, biased and baseless arguments cant hide the War Crimes of Zionist Regime who is conducting and promoting "State Sponsored Terrorism". Hamas is a democratic movement, elected by people of GAZA in a fair and free election, in 2006, declared by UN, EU and International Election Observers. Who give IDF the right to attack civilians in International Waters? In there any UN resolution which allows Israel to block the aid supplies to GAZA? Who gave the legitimacy to IDF to offer "screening" of humanitarian Aids rather allowing them to deliver directly? Who gave Israel the right to build "Un legal settlements" in occupied territories of West Bank? If Israel stop its "Un legal construction", violation of Geneva convention and International laws, there will be no rocket fire. I suggest you to open your eyes and dont try to spread your Zionist propaganda.
This attack is the worst example of "State Terrorism" on the civilian, disarmed and innocent representatives from almost more than 30 countries.
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Jun 01, 2010 02:25pm
Yes i know! It's so easy right? It's not a convoluted situation at all. What you propose is like A B C D and poof the problem's gone! It's a wonder noone thought of this brilliant idea!! I love it when people stop thinking of this simple situation in the middle east that has lasted such a short time in history and make it so so complicated!!!!
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Jun 01, 2010 03:05pm
Completely wrong use of words by the author. Author is analyzing only half the truth , only a Muslim perspective. Israel has nation has its own right to protect itself. There are videos on the net to see what the so called ' peaceful ' activists are doing to commandos. If Israel wanted to kill, it could have sank all four and killed every body .Its not the case. They took control of three other ship without any casualty. Only in one ship , it has led to this violent situation. We have to appreciate the Israel for doing its duty extremely efficient for securing the safety of its children,women and men.
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Jun 01, 2010 03:22pm
Nice try. Perhaps you mistook Dawn News for Fox News.
Israel was built on lies and it's no secret. It has zero credibility whatsoever
As for Hamas: I guess it takes a terrorist organization to deal with a terrorist state.
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Jun 01, 2010 03:23pm
Israel's wonton disregard for human life and property is neither new nor out of character
how can u even defend Israels policies? Gaza is blockaded and under siege by Israel, as is even West Bank at some parts
if Israel says something, it makes it right or true? They are the ones with the military machines, these people (like Palestinian) were unarmed and posed little to no threat
what a shame......
Our Foreign Minister gave a fitting condemnation.
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Jun 01, 2010 03:29pm
Mr. Chris Barrow 22...
The sort of validation you have crafted in favor of Israeli attack is fairly incongruous & impractical for the reason that terrorists are not existing in Gaza purely but indeed Israeli Government & its Armed Force both are eventful in devising adventures in the international state of affairs so that their strength can be comprehended with perfect lesson but these lessons are only providing advantage to small divisions of militant outfits in Gaza as they take full pleasure of the situation & consequently they receive recognition from the people of Gaza in view of the fact that they regard them as their heroes because of their valor which initiates fighting against IDF. Now what needs to be preached here is that everyone should stop blaming each other & start thinking affirmative so that environment of Co-Existence in this world can be prevailed. If truth be told, not all Muslims are against Jews while in the same way not all Jews keep hostility for Muslims but essentially the Governmental policies are fostering enmity.
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Jun 01, 2010 03:32pm
HAMAS this ''terrorist group'' was created by Israeli to fight and overthrow the PLO!!!!
And as for today, it is a democratically elected party that was voted for by the people of Gaza. I haven't heard of ANY attacks on Israel in years by HAMAS; its always Israelis who kill 1000 civilians when one Israeli soldier is killed or injured
Until recently, I used to believe that Pakistan should recognize Israel (despite opposition I met during late night ''siyasat'' chats....now I will never support Israel or give them benefit of the doubt on certain subjects).
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Jun 01, 2010 04:02pm
How do you think in this way..? How can you say that Israel soldiers attemped a non violent ? Do you watch videos ? I think you aren't or you see what you want.When the soldiers came to ship , they didn't wait and they started to shoot.We think that you are in that ships and somebody comes to kill you.What do you do in that situation ? Ohh come in and kill me ? Do you really say that ? How does Isreal have the right to blockade Gaza? Can you explain this ? We think that you live in Gaza.Every day you hear bombs,you see the people dying you don't go anywhere because Israel doesn't allow you. You says that Gaza is ruled by a terrorist group.How can you prove this ? I agree that killing of innocent women and children is terrorism.But does Israel behave different? Isreal bombed schools hospitals etc. You says that terroists hide missiles and weapons in there.But can you say that If terroists hide weapons in those places,Isreal have the right to kill innocent people.For example ; Some terroists break into your house and put their weapons in your house.Police or soldiers come to your house and they accuse you having weapons and they shoot and kill you.Can you say that these weapons are not mine but I deserve to be killed ?
Do you have any answers? I think you suppose that you know everything..However you see everything only one side..
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Jun 01, 2010 04:27pm
A sad sad series of events has passed over the last couple of days where the attack on Turkish flotilla was a mere beginning. International and humanitarian laws were violated in international waters, muslim world protests, other major players in world show some evidence of guts and step forward with some valid criticism but sadly US condones.
Israel had a weeks time to discuss and deliberate over the flotilla issue and the best plan they came up with involved a relentless massacre. If nothing else it says alot about Israel mentality how they consider themselves above any accountability and with US support perhaps their presumption is not that wrong.The strategies and course of action espoused during the last couple of days by Israel needs to be condemned and mild concern of US must be criticized. However if nothing else the world needs to hear the alarm bells that this incident has rung.
Norman Finkelstein, a holocaust survivor banished by Israel, in a recent post-flotilla interview referred Israel as a dangerous state locked and loaded with nuclear arsenal. Here it needs to be raised that it is a very serious issue in the international arena and must not be taken lightly.
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Jun 01, 2010 06:13pm
Killing passengers on the ships was not necessary, but the act of a bully. The convoy was an attempt by peaceful people to aid others held hostage by arrogant forces. Nobody can object to the humanitarian materials being carried to the isolated people of Gaza, and to subject the passengers to hostile, violent attack was unwarranted. The world is tired of these lethal acts against others seen by Israel as enemies. At one time, the people of Israel were regarded as an oppressed people, encouraged by the world for establishing their own country as a refuge for themselves. No longer. Now Israel has adopted the same violent suppression against their neighbors as they were attempting to escape. Too bad! Now the oppressed imitate their oppressors!
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Jun 01, 2010 06:30pm
The other side of the story:
The interception of the flotilla followed numerous warnings given to the organizers of the flotilla before leaving their ports as well as while sailing towards the Gaza Strip. In these warnings, it was made clear to the organizers that they could dock in the Ashdod sea port and unload the equipment they are carrying in order to deliver it to the Gaza Strip in an orderly manner, following the appropriate security checks.
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Jun 01, 2010 07:09pm
Wow! That's a good story writing dear Chris! It seems you knew exactly what has happened! If a state like Israel can keep an army, then why can't the poor Palestinians? Just think over this situation- Your country is surrounded by a terrorist army; nothing is allowed in or out; borders closed; your people are attacked at will; children killed at school; no weapons to fight; no power & electricity; life is a misery; no economic activity; no one outside listens to the plight; not even the UN (basis on which it was formed); e.t.c How would that feel to you???
I hope you & the whole world gets this message! Lets get the situation right, Israel should end the blockade whether be through land, air or sea. The Palestinians have the right to independence in all forms- and they need no dictations please!
Its tit for tat! Israel should learn now instead of getting the lesson afterwards! Please be more realistic in future!
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Jun 01, 2010 07:10pm
Israel is a bad Empire! They have no regard for Muslim children, women, young or old. They used cluster bombs when needed to kill women and children. They massacred people in Sabra and Shatila camps and the list goes on and on...
I wonder how come 3 million Jews terrorizing 2 billion Muslims form 1948! Is it due to Muslim States under their Master's Control (good example Egypt, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia)? Or is it due to lack of Unity amongst them?
You need Mard-e-Momins like Nasrullah's army of Allah to break this treatment!
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Jun 01, 2010 07:48pm
I am not a big supporter of the Iranian funded Hamas government in Gaza. However the analysis provided by Chris is to shallow. Rocket fire into Israel is condemnable any form of violence against innocent civilians is wrong and should stop. It should stop from both sides. I am simply gonna state various parts of a speech given by Chris Hedges so we can get a better perspective "Privilege in power specially military power is a dangerous narcotic. Violence destroys those who bare the brunt of its force but also those who try to use it to become gods. Israel uses sophisticated attack jets and naval vessels to bomb densely populated refugee camps. To attack a population that has no air force no air defense no navy no heavy weapons no artillery units and calls it a war. Those who(Israel) orchestrate such sieges do not grasp the terrible rage born of long humiliation and discriminate abuse." People who see their children bombed, people who have to carry various body parts of their loved ones, children who watch their grandparents die due to lack of medical supplies do not forget. It is not surprising that around 70% of children in a school located in Gaza said they wanted to become martyrs. All this is due to rage caused by a disproportionate use of force by Israel. Do not call the rocket attacks on Israel "unprovoked" condemn them and also condemn the acts (e.g occupation of land, killing innocent civilians, use military against children throwing stones,and isolating of Gaza from the rest of the world) which provoke such attacks. Israel uses the idea of being the only Jewish state and the fact of the holocaust to create sympathy in minds of many people. "However the lesson of the holocaust is not that Jews are eternal victims." The lesson of the holocaust is that if you have the power to carry out massacres and you do you are guilty. No matter who you are. This attack on the aid ship is proof that Israelis like the idea of using disproportionate force. This attack is a violation of all laws and cannot be justified. When some one says Israel should be held accountable for the human rights violation, it does not mean that person wants Israel wiped off the map. If some one is against Israels current right wing government it does not mean that the person is against Israel.
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Jun 01, 2010 07:53pm
Gaza is not ruled by a terrorist group... they have been voted to power by the people of Gaza... Isn't this what democracy means? What is the meaning of a terrorist? An organisation or a state that terrorises people? Then i can also say that Israel is a terrorist state...
Why doesn't Israel withdraw permanently from the palestinian lands? They will not get missiles in return but yes if they are only playing games and buying time then they should get missiles in return for their uninvited stay on arab land. Its so clear that Israel is at fault but the world body remains blind to their atrocities... killing aid workers who were delivering food to the people of Gaza is not a very heroic thing so pls stop glorifying their act!
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Jun 01, 2010 07:55pm
Israel has every right to enforce their blockade. The flottilla was well warned by the Israelis that it will not be allowed to land in Gaza and that it will be intercepted. The activists were offered a landing point in Israel and received commitment from Israel that all goods will be allowed into Gaza thru Israel. The activists objecive was to provoke Israel, offer a few as cannon fodder and to receive a global sympathy. If their true objective was to help Palestinians, they would have taken up Israel's offer. They played tough and lost.
Please don't tell me that they thought Israel will retreat infront of a bunch ratag activists, riding in big buckets.
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Jun 01, 2010 08:34pm
Terror, Terror, one word response to everything. The jargon of the Israelis cannot transform peace activists into terrorists, no matter how much the Israeli PR machine goes into overdrive. One Israeli spokesman had the gall to claim that next time a WMD could be smuggled on one of these flotillas destined for Gaza next time, undoubtedly to make things easier for Ariel Sharon's genocidal successors and finish the job he started when he penned all these Palestinians in the world's largest prison.
If Iranian commandos armored and armed to their teeth had boarded a ship in international waters and proceeded to kill defenseless humanitarian workers hold the remainder hostage, steal their ships and cargo and tether them to their harbors, Iran's actions would be rightly regarded as a flagrant abuse of international law and a particularly violent case of piracy just as happens off the coast of Somalia. Unfortunately this is precisely what Israel has done.
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Jun 01, 2010 08:41pm
IDF has every right to protect themselves from a rioting mob. The released video footage show clearly how the mod attacked the soldiers first with metal rods. I think they got the message. Don't mess with Israel.
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Jun 01, 2010 09:02pm
All loss of innocent human life must be condemned. Israel has done atrocities in the past and everyone knows that including the international community.
If you look at the US vs Israel relations, they are at all time low.
I hope muslims in Gaza can keep patience and not retaliate in a violent way.
Israel is trying to derail the peace process. Muslims must keep cool.
By the way, I am an ahmadi and I am condemning Israel on this barbaric attack.
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Jun 01, 2010 09:43pm
If Iran were to attack a humanitarian aid consignment, what would be the reaction of the International community??
Blind as America may be to Israel's activities, their indifference to such atrocities would bear results. The fire that America is fanning in its own backyard, is proving a catalysts for breeding extremists of all sorts.
Today the world asks if what happened to the humanitarian aid flotilla was enough to consider some major policy changes in supporting Israel even when it is utterly wrong and for what countries like Iran might have run the risk of extreme reaction form US even a possible military action.
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Jun 01, 2010 10:55pm
@ChrisBarrow22: You know everything and the rest of the world is blind. Why don't you start advising the UN on international political issues? c'mon man, wake up... you're still in the day dreams. Open your eyes and tell us how many soldiers were killed if they were attacked??? And why the flotillas were diverted to Israel and the peacekeepers from all over the world detained??? Do you actually know the meaning of PEACE??? No, you don't know, so, please start reading the neutral pages and think positively. Cheer up now!
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Jun 02, 2010 12:14am
How long will you people continue to justify occupation and blame the victims to satisfy your hatred for Muslims. Probably thats your gentic makeup to blame your victims for the massacre you carry out and think that only if the victims did not fight back they would have not been killed. Such as the Jews, Native Americans, Vietnamis, Iraqis ... the list goes on.
In your eyes Israel has a right to defend itself but Mulims (Paletinians) only have a right to accept slavery of a planted race mostly from Europe which justify its claim on a promise made by God 2000 years ago. The only truth is you are powerful and getting away with murder. No one in the Muslim World i.e. 1.5 billion people belive the western claim of being civilized or upholders of Human rights or freedom anymore.
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Jun 02, 2010 01:44am
Why do the Israelis after every episode like this blame the other side. Its always "the terrorists that place their women and children in danger". The question should be why do you always PULL THE TRIGGER?
First of all no country should have the right to impose a blockade on another country. This is illegal under International law and is an act of war. Secondly, this particular episode could have been avoided if the Israelis had not acted so belligerently. I think the Israelis have become so accustomed to killing Palestinians that they failed to realize that killing of unarmed international peace activists would invite world condemnation. A Turkish protest had a banner that said "ISRAEL - YOU WILL DROWN IN THE BLOOD THAT YOU SHED"
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Jun 02, 2010 03:11am
Israel has no right to treat people in inhuman way- what has given Israel the right to act like Barbarian animals
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Jun 02, 2010 03:20am
India has I reiterate our unstinting and unwavering support to the just Palestine cause This is an area of special priority for India and over the next decade and more this focus would only intensify further. Israel has to learn to live like Human beings and not have a law of jungle. Is this right to treat human beings below the human dignity. Israel has being playing games for long time. once some one said: : You can fool some people for some time, some people all the time , and not all the people all the time." Those days are gone when Israel take America for granted. Why dont Israel give up terrorist activities ?
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Jun 02, 2010 04:22am
Question> How many Israelis killed by Gaza rockets in the last 10 years?
Answer> Less then the number of people killed on the flotilla.
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Jun 02, 2010 09:24am
You say that Israel has a right to defend itself. What about the people of Palestine, Gaza, who have been demanding freedom and a separate homeland for 40 years, don't they have a right to demand their own country?
Since the last 40 years, thousands of innocent palestinians have been brutally killed, murdered, their homes, lands, everything snatched away from them and being forced to live under a state which was formed on deceit and lies..a state which is a Zionist regime and loves mass killing of innocent people especially women and children.
This mass murdering by Israel has not been limited to three or four years..it has been going on continuously for the last 40 years.
It's useless to expect justice from the West especially America, by whose help Israel is committing these countless war crimes. Muslims must realize that its America and Israel combined which are a threat to world peace. Now is the time for Muslims to wake up from their slumber.
Even if the people on board the flotilla attacked Israel, it was justified..after all nothing will work with against Israel except for a Blood for Blood policy which the Muslims need to adopt. There would be no lasting peace in this world as long as Israel exists.
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Jun 02, 2010 05:18am
Israel has proved by its violent actions that it has no respect for human lives. Israel is the biggest threat to the world peace.
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Jun 02, 2010 05:20am
i think the Israelis forget the Holocaust, that's why they do the same holocaust with innocent people of Gaza. Instead of feeling ashamed they are saying this is the right solution. Where are the Human Rights activists why not they were sleeping. Where is USA policy against terrorism. I feel ashamed that they have no value in the Eyes of these countries. In World only 1 law is working. "Always push the Weak"
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Jun 02, 2010 05:38am
Gaza is being captured by a terrorist country Israel. The innocent women and children of Gaza people are being targeted by Israelis. Israel never withdrew its troops. It was all fake. Israel has never allowed to have peace in this region. Gaza people are freedom fighters and they are being tortured and inflicted with pain by the Israelis for no good reason except for fighting. Israeli commandos made an open attack with no prior warning and no indication of so called "screening" humanitarian aid. Their intentions were very clear to murder and victimize the people on board. No one attacked their soldiers. They had nothing to attack with. If Gaza people stop fighting for their freedom then would Israel allow them to live peacefully. No. Never. Their intentions and greediness for hurting people of Gaza and Inflicting them pain would never be over until the last man of Gaza bleeds to death. These people are insane. Israel have made terrorists. Israel is the cruelest country in this whole world and it should not be exiting in the world on the first place.
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Jun 02, 2010 05:48am
We need to concentrate on our own nation building instead of what goes around elsewhere, specifically on our prevailing situation where no one has lended us any help....are we gonna ever grow up??
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Jun 02, 2010 06:32am
Mr. Chris Barrow:
The flotilla raid was a debacle.
It seems an especially hopeless task to declare that conditions in the Mideast have reached a new low of hopelessness, but that is where we are, and the first step towards any future hope must be to acknowledge its present absence.
In recent weeks Obama had seemed to be making some progress, however meager. Months of painstaking diplomacy had achieved a measure of consensus over new U.N. sanctions against Iran, with Russia
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Jun 02, 2010 07:49am
I totally agree with you.
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Jun 02, 2010 09:07am
I completely agree with you.
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Jun 02, 2010 11:56am
There were more protests against Israel throughout Pakistan for killing 9 people than fundamentalists Sunnis killing 95 Ahmadis. Even govt of Pakistan has raised Israel issue in the UN, however govt still has not rescinded its fatwa declaring Ahmadis as non Muslims. This exposes Pakistan's hypocrisy and double standards.
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Jun 02, 2010 12:55pm
No the Israelis would not have retreated but instead towed them to Ashdod as they have done in the past. Then they would off loaded all dual use technology such as childrens books and toys, medicine and sent the rest to Gaza eventually when they felt like it. If you ever take the time to read the Israeli views on Gazan needs it would sicken you.
BTW, Gaza has its own territorial waters. Israel has no right to blockade the sea ports just like it has not right to build on Palestinian lands
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Jun 02, 2010 08:43pm
This problem would have been resolved decades ago had anti-Israel countries agreed to accept the secure existence of Israel.
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Jun 02, 2010 08:56pm
Second that.
Every country has right to protect it self from terrorists.
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Jun 03, 2010 02:09pm
Wilson, I am afraid your comments are not in good taste since Israel for long citing reasons of security and self protection have been indulging in genocide of Palestine people and getting away with the same. I wonder for how long USA would continue to condone violations of human rights which may only lead to a major disaster for the whole world.
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Jun 03, 2010 03:50am
Mr. Wilson
you will soon see a video whereby the Israelis fired on the aid workers (and the ship) even when the white flag was up.
they poured themselves on the ship on 'International Water' which is 'Illegal' , do you understand that?
by law it is 'Illegal'. So offcourse they will have to defend themselves against this shameful act from the killers.
1- illegal act is done
2- people are killed
3- some more clips to be aired and hopefully this edited video mystery will be easily solved
Israel is the worst country in the whole world who doesn't even have single bit of shame =]
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Jun 03, 2010 04:55am
Self defence for Israel is very crucial as they cannot afford to lose a war due to small population and surrounded by enemies.
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Jun 03, 2010 05:13am
Are you saying that if the no of people killed on that flotilla was less, Israel would not been have blamed? If you kill one person in another community and the other community kills more than one person in your community, your killing of one person is ok as they killed more people? where were you braught up? What is your defination of humanity?
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Jun 03, 2010 05:18am
Have you ever thought why so many Pakistanis are killed in Pakistan every day? What are you doing about it? Or you are one of those psudointellectul who likes to raise the questions and divert the issues that matter your country most?
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Jun 03, 2010 05:22am
I am not a Ahmadi but I agree with Mr. Ahmad 100%. Wake up Pakistan - resolve your own problems
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Jun 03, 2010 05:24am
Old Polish proverb.
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Jun 03, 2010 05:26am
My sincere condolence to your community for experiencing terrorist attack in lahore. I am not expecting any justice will be done (hopefully the CJ, who got re-elected after all the violence is reading this blog)
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Jun 03, 2010 05:45am
Our country is being victimized by the name of terror. Where is common sense nobody understand that they masc-care of our Pakistani and world blame us for terrorism. What about the clarification of large number of Muslim killing in Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine, Pakistan. Our politician are prescribed by sleeping pills. just to wake for prevailing mismanagement and remain deaf to listen the voice of helpless. Dont blame America or Israil because they have power to overcome and in opposite our leader has power to grab money all of them those either in authority or not. Nobody has courage to raise a voice we need young and soft blood for politics but not from their old brand inheritance. Some has ability to take all challenges through proper management and vanish that pathetic unlawful democracy out of Pakistan vicinity. This is not a time to ask for change this is a time to do something good for our Pakistan safety I love my country MAY ALLAH SAVE HIM FROM ALL EVILS.
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Jun 03, 2010 06:11am
Dear Editor Sir,
Most of the Blog in your news paper have said what is required form the world community against Israel.
I however, wonder as to what the nation of Pakistan is willing to sacrifice in terms of helping their Brethern in religion?
Pakistan as a nation has given enough lip service to the cause of Palestine but we have always lagged behind in terms of actually supporting the ill-fated Palestinians. Hamas is termed officially as a terrorist organisation in our power echleon, can't we change that status to a movement for freedom? also Sir, can't we as a nation of Pakistani civil society organise a Flotilla to Gaza and challenge the Isreal blockade?
So many of our people die in bomb blast every day in our cities and mountains why not risk our lives for a cause, atleast this way we can prove our relation to a down trodden people whom the Arabs have also abondoned?
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Jun 03, 2010 09:53am
i am ashamed of the muslim countries nowadays, we're supposed to stand united, but no muslim countries are helping their fellow muslim countries in need, for example Egypt has only just "temporarily" opened its borders with palestine and only people with foreign passports are allowed to go in, furthermore palestinians are not allowed to fish near Egypt or they will be shot, like a case that just took place recently. Why should we expect countries such as Israel to show mercy when our own so-called muslim nations have no respect for their fellow muslims?
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Jun 03, 2010 10:15am
JN
You are wrong-I agree emotional impact on Palestinian , remember Palestinian are not allowed in Egypt, they have land blockade and Jordon Kicked Palestinian out that is why Zia ul Haq got green slash and highest medal from Jordon..Check the History. I have been 3 times to Palestinian and meet for Chairman Arfat . Khuda Hafiz
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Jun 03, 2010 10:44am
Unless the Muslim Countries stand side by side, the problem would not be solved. This is a silver chance which they can avail, if they have some moral shame.
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Jun 03, 2010 12:02pm
The whole discussion has taken a tangent. It started with the cold blooded murder of Ahmadis in pakistan and now it has landed in isreal. Nobody wants to discuss their back yard knowing fully well that it is all red with blood. Sometime back pakistanis used to call these people jehadis , freedom fighters and now when they are threatening the very existence of this nation they are calling them terrorists. People who stay in glass houses donot throw stones at others. Have the guts to say they ahmadis are a minority being discriminated in pakistan with the backing of the govt and the majority. Develop religious tolerance. Islam is not the only religion in the world. learn to co-exit and take the criticism in a healthy way. Change your mindset.
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Jun 03, 2010 02:35pm
Brutal attack on unarmed vessels carrying food items and medicine by Isreal resulting in loss of dozens of innocent lives is a horrific act and danger to world peace. The United States needs to revise its policy of blindly supporting Israel for the sake of peace in the world. The United States must use its influence and strive to solve Palistanian problem which will improve image of America in the Muslim world. Israel
is occupying Palestine lands and stubbornly refuses to vacate it although dozens of resolutions have been passed in United Nations in this regards. Israel has formidable military power, even then it will be in its interest, to prefer peaceful means to resolve the problems. Mere relying on use of force will be unwise exercise.
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Jun 03, 2010 02:48pm
I completely agree with Mr Pakistani's thoughts. In my opinion, we should have sympathies for Palestinians but we don't have the ability to fight their cause at present circumstances when our own people are killed by terrorist. Its a shame for Arabs that Turks and the other world community members take a stand against Palestinian oppression. The Arab nations are completely spineless.
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Jun 04, 2010 10:28am
It was a shock felt throughout the world that Israel attacked an unarmed vessel carrying food and medecines for Gaza people. There was another shock by noticing the blindly support of Israel over its action. The strip of Gaza has been blocked by Israel for a long time. And Israel does not want any humanitarian aid to pass through. It is high time for the world to strain relations with Israel and to put sanctions over this country. Moreover, the world should reconsider their relationship with the United States which blindly support Israel's unjust cause. And this action should continue unless Israel behaves like a civilised country.
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Jun 04, 2010 11:14am
"...and received commitment from Israel that all goods will be allowed into Gaza thru Israel".
That statement is simply not true.
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Jun 04, 2010 11:58am
You are right .
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Jun 04, 2010 07:40am
I
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Jun 04, 2010 09:22am
"There would be no lasting peace in this world as long as Israel exists." - Unfortunately this is what Muslims thinks.
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Jun 04, 2010 09:29am
To a s ahmed:
To become a Muslim one has to proclaim: "There is no God but Allah and Muhammed is His servant and Messenger"
Ahmedis fail to fulfill this basic criteria sir. Either you yourself are an Ahmadi or completely ignorant of your own status as a Muslim that you fail to comprehend why Ahmadis were declared Kafirs.
Please don't take this statement and use it as evidence to prove that Pakistan is full of "extremists", etc, etc. I fully agree that their lives, property and honour should be safeguarded by the government if they are loyal citizens of the country. I am also aware that Islam prohibits attacking ALL kinds of worshipers in their places of worship. But to criticize the decision and to try and portray them as Muslims, is a great disservice to Islam and puts one's own Iman in danger. It is just like calling Hindus or Jews Muslims. Just like Christians and Hindus have a right to live in Pakistan, so do the Ahmadis and Qadianis, if they remain loyal to this country, that is.
Anyone who doubts their disbelief is an ignorant with no knowledge about Prophethood in Islam, Period
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Jun 04, 2010 09:32am
What about Palestinian,Lebanese and other people's self-defence, mate?
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Jun 04, 2010 09:35am
ANd what about giving independence to Palestine?Or for that matter lifting the blockade on Gaza?How if independent Palestine blockades Israel claiming that Mossad may use steel,cement and other materials for making weapons?Comment only if you have the answers
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Jun 04, 2010 09:40am
It is because of Israel.Out of political correctness and in order to look 'peace-loving' in the eyes of this imperfect world,Pakistan has had to ignore Israel's violent activities.The common Pakistani is simple and regards this as 'allying with the enemy' and so is dragged into radicalism.Ok,don't judge Israel by Pakistani standards.Why not judge by neutral standards?You are justifying Israel's actions.
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Jun 04, 2010 09:41am
Even Palestine has the right to protect itself from Zionist terrorists.
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Jun 04, 2010 01:08pm
these people have virtually been stripped of everything they possess, right down to their dignity. What more of a compromise does the world want from them??
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Jun 04, 2010 10:07am
Why is not the same protest and voice raised when ahmedis are killed in Pakistan boundaries. Why is there a muted response to that? Violence such as this should be condemned in all parts of the country as we need to stop this.
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Jun 04, 2010 05:28pm
In Geopolitics, religions do not stand together; national interests do.
Either one can understand this and work for a pragmatic solution, or keep talking and dreaming of an ideal solution.
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Jun 04, 2010 10:53pm
WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!! Lookwhats happening in your country. Everyday innocent people are killed.
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Jun 06, 2010 04:14am
Agreed Vilas. Justification of murder by the practicing religionists on this forum ( by saying the others have killed more !) is mind boggling.
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Jun 06, 2010 06:35am
I completely agree. We condemn the killing of Ahmedis but they still remain non muslims untill they declare that their own leader Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was not a prophet and prophethood concluded with the coming of HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SALLALAHOALIWASALAM. Anyone claiming to be a prophet after that is an imposter. This is a fundamental belief necessary for being a muslim which Ahmedi's have denied.They also deny the second coming of Hazrat Essa Allai Salam which is also a basic tenet of islamic faith.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahmadiyya
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Jun 06, 2010 12:06pm
1. If Israel does not want any humanitarian aid to pass through how have the people of Gaza been surviving for the last four years? There has been, not even a single fatality due to lack of food.
2. About reconsideration of relationship with the US, let us wait for the result of the investigation of the report to see who instigated and initiated the confrontation.
3. IDF boarded several other boats, before and after this incidence, but did not hurt or kill anyone. Why?
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Jun 06, 2010 04:07pm
Yes, we all did condemn it.
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Jun 06, 2010 07:18pm
Israel did right and responded very well to those who does not believe in rules and peace. Pakistani should be more concern about what happening in the country. When we keep killing millions of innocent people in name of religion and Allah. Why not we raise our voice against this first? when Pakistan got independence we had more than 17% non-Muslim, Now it just reduce to merely < 2%??? what happen to those minorities?
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Jun 07, 2010 07:05am
To say that "Wake up Pakistan" suggests that Pakistan has been asleep and in need to be awaken. Going after a cause such as purity of faith is hardly a result of those with a sleepwalking habits. There is an instruction of "resolve your own problem." But how?
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Jun 06, 2010 08:05pm
I don't think junaid is denying the violence that is occurring in Pakistan on a daily basis. He is merely condemning the notorious actions of the Israelis, which I'd like to add is the topic of the article.
He's not drawing a comparison, and what is happening in Pakistan doesn't justify or legitimise the murderers taking place in Palestine.
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Jun 06, 2010 08:06pm
Three words, King David Hotel. Urge all those ignorant of this event to check it out. worthwhile history lesson.
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Jun 06, 2010 10:49pm
Kat :
Can't think of better explanation. You phrased it perfectly.
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Jun 06, 2010 10:53pm
Compromise on what ? 3/4 of their country is already under Jewish control, how much more they should surrender ?
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Jun 07, 2010 09:35pm
Well no killing is justified and I may or may not justify Israel
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Jun 08, 2010 03:24pm
Palestine state would have been formed and should be formed the obstacle was Israel was not acceptable and was refused. If you read the history one with some intelligence and analytical capability will understand the reasons. The blockade of Gaza is undertaken by both Israel and EGYPT a MUSLIM COUNTRY to prevent flow of arms. All humanitarian aid is allowed by both Egypt and Israel by road. If one is capable of analyzing one will know how million people in Gaza have food water electricity Medicine available. Concrete still and other material that can be used to construct tunnels is not being allowed by both Egypt and Israel as many tunnels were discovered and destroyed by both EGYPT AND Israel. By the way if you have forgotten EGYPT is an Islamic country. It is imperative that a Palestinian state be formed, sooner the better. However which one a Gaza or West Bank? Comment only if you can analyze it rationally.
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Jun 08, 2010 09:58pm
I do not agree with the views that Israel was right in taking action in international waters. I will certainly back Taliban and Jihadis to leave Pakistan alone and go to Israel. I will also request Maulana Munawar of JI to stop taking out processions against certain countries for caricatures. It is time that he with his followers make a flotilla and go to help Muslims of Gaza. You are lion in Pakistan go out how they make you a goat.You claim to be pioneers of Islamic State whereas a secular country sent his men to help Palestine/Gaza
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Jun 10, 2010 06:51am
the point is Israel has no right to intercept any vessal in international waters........
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Jun 12, 2010 01:06pm
Ahmed Sir..... the reply proved your point. We need to condemn as Muslims were killed but in case of Ahmedis.. let us find whether they are Muslim or not first. Thats more important than people being killed.
So according to great Islamic scholars.. Only Muslim killing should be condemned. Non Muslim anyway are destined to die. Same thing Israel does and we hate them. Since for them Jew life is sacrosanct.. Muslims can die.
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Jun 14, 2010 06:46am
Very soon there may be casualties due to lack of food.We don't actually need casualties in the form of deaths to be reported.
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Jun 14, 2010 06:48am
If one continues to support countries like Israel so obstinately like you do when will the pragmatic solution take effect.Think.
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Jun 14, 2010 07:27am
Kindly note that these videos were unleashed by the Israeli army and government as part of propaganda.This particular case of propaganda was reported in this very newspaper.
Speaking from a neutral perspective,speaking only about Israel's right to protect itself and conveniently ignoring the other side's right to protect itself is not proper,Praveen.Israel intends to kill much more than the number of people in the 4 boats which is why it killed only 9 and is spreading the propaganda videos.Using your argument,one can very well justify the actions of any terrorist group .
Lets analyze ourselves fully.Lets be honest to ourselves first.All of us.
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Jun 15, 2010 08:39pm
The only people who are killing innocent people in Pakistan are foreign agents working for Pakistan's enemies. Whenever a Pakistani of any religion or background is hurt, we all feel the pain. I think you don't understand how Pakistanis feel about kicking out foreign extremists and agents who are trying to destablize the region. I guess you are an Indian which is why you say such outlandish things agianst Pakistanis without understanding how all Pakistanis want the terrorists and extremists out. Also, because we are defeating terrorism in Pakistan doesn't mean why can't speak out against terrorism in other countries too,.
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Jun 16, 2010 05:44am
I disagree. Who are you to say who is a Muslim and who is a non-Muslim based on your own understanding of what Ahmadis believe and do not believe? I know that Ahmadis believe in the Kalima and they have it on their places of worship.. Ahmadis try to follow the Holy Prophet (saw) as a community the most if you go and see them yourselves instead of believing in what the Mulla tells you. Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad wrote many Qaseedas in the love of the Holy Prophet (saw), one of which was even taught in the Punjab University in the 1950s...before Pakistanis became so intolerant as now. Fear Allah my friend for you will be asked about what you say on the Day of Judgement.
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Jun 17, 2010 11:17am
Your remark regarding Hamas is very true.
Humayun Waheed needs to study more on Hamas
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Jun 16, 2010 08:58pm
Good point Ali!.. We need to look into this fact and first put our house in order, before pointing fingers at others.
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Jun 16, 2010 09:02pm
VK, please get out of this illusion that we, Pakistanis, are angel and no wrong can be committed by us. We need to admit our mistakes, so we can move forward and fix our society we live in.. Americans recovered from Civil rights movements, South Africa moved away from Apartheid times. This is now high time for us to take care of our Minorities, be it be Ahmedis, Shias, or whatever.. They all need to be protected by the majority.
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Jun 16, 2010 09:04pm
Very Well said.. I hope Muslims understand that as well
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Jun 16, 2010 09:09pm
I hope you are kidding, because it is the most disgusted explanation i have heard.. No sensible person can justify killing of another human being. Those who beleive otherwise, will be burnt in hell for ever!!
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Jun 16, 2010 09:18pm
I have a different take on the situation.
First, I beleive, Since Israel is ruled by their "Religious" establishment, they are in a constant curse. like we We muslims are in, controlled by our religious clergy.
Second, there were 9 ships sailed to defy Israel blockade, and only one incidence of violence occured on one ship out of 8 others. If Israel had the intention of using force, other ships would have expreienced the same amount of violence. Can some one shed some light on this point?
Thanks,
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Jun 16, 2010 09:59pm
Please don't use word "But" it insunate that you are actually condoning Masacare of Ahmedis. I don't care if they worship Devil or Sun or who ever they beleive in, as long as they are not violent, we should not be violent against them as well, PERIOD!!!
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Jun 16, 2010 10:10pm
Violence will only generate violence. If you deny people of their democratic rights, people will have no other way but to resort to violence. Hamas, in your eyes may be a terrorist organization, but it is an elected organization by the people of Gaza. Similar to Government of Israel. now, thats another story that both sides leaders are controlled by their religious guys and don't know how to resolve their differences. Once we take the religion out of the equation, I believe peace will prevail. Israelis did not sincerely negotiated with Yasser Arafat, which resulted in breakdown of Palestine Secular leadership and groups like Hammas have emerged. I don't know what next is coming. I am sure Israelis must be very paranoid now and Flotilla incidence shows that.
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Jun 18, 2010 03:31am
Pointing out that more members of the Flotilla team were killed than by Palestinian rockets can never be a 'justification' JM is talking about.How come does JM know that the commentator is a practicing religionist?Israel has done something very wrong and the international community needs to take appropriate action against it.Truly mind-boggling stuff from Vilas and JM.
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Jun 18, 2010 03:34am
But still,Zakir, one can't deny that Israel was wrong in attacking that one ship.
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Jun 19, 2010 02:20pm
I just want to add one more point that the flotilla was not carrying aid from only Muslim countries........
flotilla had people of different faith and nationalities trying to help people of Gaza...
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Jun 20, 2010 12:19pm
The question is not of deaths but about supply of food items. If you have any information to show that Israel has been blocking food supplies to Gaza, please share.
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Jun 22, 2010 03:42am
How are all Muslims branded enemies of the west when sep 11 was an attack on USA only. Why did all teh western nations joined to attack Afghanistan and Iraq. Even nations like switzerland where no terrorist acitivty has ever been planned by any Muslim are becoming anti Muslim. In comparison I guess in your eyes decades of occupation and killing of Mulims is not enough for us to feel angry.
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