Neeranam

According to Chatgpt Hezbollah was formed in the early 1980s in response to the U.S. and Israeli occupation of Lebanon. The group emerged as a militant organization advocating for the resistance against foreign intervention and the expulsion of Israeli forces following the 1982 invasion. Additionally, it sought to empower the marginalized Shiite community, addressing their socio-political grievances. Influenced by Iranian support, Hezbollah aimed to unify various factions against perceived Western and Israeli aggressions, positioning itself as a defender of Lebanese sovereignty.

Could someone explain what Lebanon leadership has got to do do with a country on the other side of the world? Wasn't Hezbollah created because the US forces occupied Lebanon in 1982?

Just when you think it can't get any worse. Joe, how about stop funding them. US urges Israel to stop shooting at UN peacekeepers in Lebanon https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2ek2gkp9k2o

Rather childish, if not racist, calling posters by Muslim names, who call out Israel’s crimes.

Hezbollah do not use civilians as human shields. Where did you get this information, Netanyahu?

Hezbollah do not use civilians as human shields. Where did you get this information, Netanyahu?

Hezbollah do not use civilians as human shields. Where did you get this information, Netanyahu?

Correct. Iran's proxy network, or allies as Iran's leader said recently, evolved as a strategic response to perceived threats, particularly from Israel's actions in the region. The formation of these alliances can be traced back to a series of aggressive policies and territorial expansions by Israel, including the establishment of illegal settlements and military incursions. As Israel sought to consolidate its control, Iran positioned itself as a counterweight, fostering relationships with various non-state actors, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and militant groups in Palestine and Syria. These proxies have become critical allies for Iran, enabling it to project power and influence across the region. In many instances, these groups emerged in direct response to Israeli aggression, rallying local populations against what they see as occupation and infringement on their sovereignty. Iran's role is defender of Palestinian rights and resistance against Israeli expansionism.

Let's not forget the continual killing in Gaza. At least 28 people have been killed in an Israeli air strike on a school sheltering displaced families in the central Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Red Crescent says. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce9jm4ggjgyo

Interesting that the great Noam Chomsky says that if Israel is going to attack Iran, the first thing they will do is to wipe out Lebanon.

Ah, OK. The list I saw did, I've now checked UK Government site

I firmly believe in Israel's right to exist, I also support the notion of resolving borders based on the UN's longstanding proposals. You do know the borders have significantly changed in Israel's favour, primarily through the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and the annexation of East Jerusalem, actions widely regarded as illegal under international law. Following the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel occupied territories that were previously controlled by Jordan and Egypt. Supporting Israel's right to exist and advocating for a peaceful resolution does not necessitate an opposition to Islam or its laws. My opinion is that Shariah law has nothing to do with me, other cultures can do what they want as long as they don't try to impose it on Thailand.

Indeed, Netanyahu is totally opposed to a two state solution. There was was possible peace under Yitzhak Rabin, who was shot, which led to Benni taking power in the subsequent election. He had been totally opposed to what Rabin was doing and criticized him for engaging in peace negotiations or concessions that he believed compromised Israel’s security. He has taken a hardline stance against Iran, viewing it as an existential threat, and has been critical of any diplomatic approaches that seemed to lessen sanctions or allow Iran to maintain its nuclear program.

Is it possible to avoid paying 800 baht every couple of months by making my own water filter, ie stuffing some foam or something into the space where the bough filter goes? Or possible taking the filter out the cartridge and cleaning it, maybe with a hacksaw? Yes, my wife calls me 'kee niow', maybe because I'm from Aberdeen 🙂

What makes you say that? Do you hope Israel kicks Iran's butt, and does that make you an Islamophobe?

Framing the conflict solely as an Iranian war against Israel oversimplifies the complexities at play. The plight of the Palestinian people and their struggle for self-determination must be acknowledged. The actions of groups like Hamas, while abhorrent, are often a response to the ongoing occupation and systemic oppression. The notion that regime change in Iran will bring about peace ignores the realities on the ground. Lasting peace will require addressing the root causes of the conflict, including the human rights violations faced by Palestinians. Dialogue, mutual recognition, and a commitment to justice for all peoples in the region are essential for a sustainable resolution.

Israeli forces killed at least 64 Palestinians in Gaza on Wednesday, most of them in the north, where a six-day siege has forced the United Nations to shut down schools-turned-shelters, as well as hospitals. https://aje.io/novgpb

Goa was getting like that in 1992, especially with the Manchester flights, all those Happy Monday types.

Well said.

Opposing “Islamophobia” doesn’t mean advocating for censorship of all critical discussions about Islam. As I said earlier, t’s about distinguishing between legitimate critique and harmful stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination. Enjoying debate doesn’t negate the importance of recognizing how certain speech can incite hatred and violence. You mention the need to consider how believers understand these texts today. That’s valid, but we must also acknowledge that interpretations can evolve. Many religious traditions engage with their texts in ways that reflect contemporary values and ethics. Engaging with a faith’s foundational texts doesn’t have to be a literal reading; it can be a dynamic process that respects both tradition and modernity. Labeling my views as “naive” misses an opportunity for dialogue. I say the same thing for Christianophobia, Judeophobia, or Buddhophobia.

Indeed, Iran has not been the initiator in any war for hundreds of years! The have supported some allies in conflicts across the Middle East, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, and was involved in the Syrian Civil War, providing support to the Assad regime.

Associating Muslims with violence, extremism, or terrorism based on the actions of a minority. Treating individuals unfairly in social, political, or economic contexts due to their Muslim identity or perceived affiliation with Islam. Engaging in or promoting verbal or physical attacks against individuals or groups because they are Muslim or perceived to be. Dismissing or denigrating Islamic beliefs, practices, and cultural expressions without understanding or respect.

I listen to both sides, I do NOT wish to ban debate, I enjoy it. All I said was Islamophobia should be banned. Sterotyping people based on their race, ethnicity, or nationality can be dangerous and harmful. Stereotypes can oversimplify human behaviors and cultures, causing misrepresentation and discrimination. I once was asked to work in a Muslim school in Lardprao, Bangkok, just after 9/11. No American colleague could handle it, as there was real hatred towards America, understandably after the ME wars. The kids had Osama Bin Laden pencil cases and were shouting death to America as I was writing on the whiteboard. I stayed as I wanted to teach them that stereotypes can perpetuate cycles of prejudice and division. When people rely on stereotypes instead of talking to others as unique persons, they miss the opportunity for meaningful dialogue and understanding. Patterns exist but they don't define. I smashed their thoughts that Americans were arrogant and culturally insensitive, for example.

Herein lies one of the reasons many world leaders condemn Israel, for not obeying international law. By the way nice map of Land Of Moriah. Where life began, I believe.

This occupation would be a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.