Complex, complex, complex

I have recently noticed just how incredibly difficult it has become to explain the Middle East Conflict with anyone who watches American news channels for their information.  Even intelligent, empathetic people have little to no idea why the conflict is taking place or who is involved.  I spent several hours in a coffee shop yesterday discussing the recent conflict with a young man, who was not stupid, but definitely ignorant.  He continually brought up Iran and the country's president during our conversation.  My repeated attempts to declare the recent crisis has nothing to do with Ahmadinejad or Iran went unnoticed.  The young man was a shining example of a product of American media.  Even when I told him of the horrific war crimes against Palestinian civilians seeking refuge in UNWRA schools, he got confused about which side I was discussing, and said that my statements were somehow proof of Iran's villainess behavior. I'm sad to report that perhaps Khalidi was right when he stated that the situation is too complex for the average American to understand.  Years of misinformation and disproportionate reporting of Israel suffering has led us to this point... no one cares about the Palestinians.  I do.  I care.

No one seems to understand the roots of the conflict and no one seems to care anymore.  The majority of responses I have heard include: "this is a 2000 year-old conflict and no one remembers what they are fighting for, let them kill one another."  The media has accomplished its task of complicating and confusing the situation to the point that people are immune to the violence and civilian casualties.  I will continue my research, though, and some day will accomplish my goal, which is to educate Americans about the plight of the Palestinians.

Seven years ago when I realized my entire education of the region was false, I made it my mission to reveal the truth.  Back then, I was not even allowed to discuss the situation at my parent's dinner table.  Today, my own father expresses his disdain and disproval of Israel.  These are slow and painful steps, but the idea of giving up and not speaking the truth is even more so.

There is nothing complicated about innocent children dying.  It is a crime against humanity and one that will result in horrible repercussions.  I believe in the concept of Karma; I believe in  justice.