Israel (now broader Mid East discussion)

I know yours is a jocular retort; however, I will respond in a little more sober manner in this thread cos this is an area I have admitted to struggling with identifying the history to all the issues. I have no problem asking you -- or anyone else -- what YOU think regarding a subject in order to help inform my own outlook from a different perspective or to, I guess, assess my own gut check. This is never, ever, ever, ever, EVER to be construed as asking someone to tell me WHAT to think. I think there are far too many people today willing to do just that with a corresponding amount far too willing to oblige.

IOW, I WANT to listen.
I appreciate this about you.