Q: How do you see Israel's actions in the Flotilla affair?
A: The characterization that comes to mind is "autistic." Israel behaved in a way that suggests it is no longer fully able to estimate, assess or understand the way other people think about it. Even if you supported the blockade (I don't) this would be an almost exemplary case of shooting oneself in a painful part of the anatomy.
Firstly because it alienates Turkey, who Israel needs in the longer run. Secondly because it was undertaken in international waters and largely at the expense of civilian victims. Thirdly because it was an overreaction. Fourthly because it had the predictable effect of weakening the case for a blockade rather than strengthening it.
In short, this is the action of a country which is fast losing touch with reality.
Text: Tony Judt's Final Word on Israel; The Atlantic, 14 September 2011.
Image: The World According to Israel, from AlphaDesigner's Mapping Stereotypes. Click to enlarge.
