Less Polling, More Policy and Common Sense Required in the Middle East

Residents of Sderot, a town less than a mile from the Gaza border in Israel, have returned home, but the threat of rockets continues to haunt them. Despite eight months of operations to clear Hamas’ terrorist infrastructure in Gaza, only three-quarters of the job has been completed. The ongoing conflict has led to new incursions by terrorist groups into Israel, creating a tense atmosphere on the northern border and causing nearby cities to be deserted.

In the southern city of Eilat, once a popular tourist destination, the port remains closed off due to security concerns stemming from threats from Yemen. The city has seen a decline in tourism and economic activity, painting a grim picture of the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian life.

On the Gazan side, Hamas continues to exert control, holding both its own people and the international community hostage to its demands. The situation has escalated into a multi-front war between Israel, the United States’ key ally in the Middle East, and Hamas, with no end in sight.

The conflict has also sparked debates and disagreements among policymakers and pundits, with differing opinions on how to approach the situation. The lack of common sense in decision-making has been highlighted, with conflicting policies and actions causing confusion and frustration.

Recent polls in both the US and Israel have shown varying opinions on the conflict, with Americans and Israelis holding different views on the best course of action. The Biden administration’s decisions, such as pausing weapon sales and withholding UN vetoes, have been met with criticism and scrutiny.

The impact of the conflict is not limited to the Middle East, as protests and incidents of antisemitism have been reported in North America and Europe. The Biden administration’s handling of the situation has been questioned, with calls for more common-sense policies and leadership.

The conflict has also had repercussions beyond the immediate region, with concerns about threats such as cyberterrorism and nuclear weapons development by Iran. The shifting priorities and policies of the US government regarding groups like the Houthis in Yemen have raised questions about the decision-making process.

In the midst of these challenges, there is a call for a return to common sense in leadership and decision-making. The need for critical thinking and pragmatic solutions is emphasized as a way to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and ensure better outcomes for all involved.

As the conflict continues to unfold, the importance of common sense and rational decision-making becomes increasingly clear. Finding common ground and working towards peaceful resolutions is essential in addressing the root causes of the conflict and preventing further escalation.