How is it that so much of what’s happening across the world remains both physically and mentally aloof from you and I, on an ongoing basis? 

Sure, we talk about the war in Ukraine, we mutter comments of condemnation about the atrocities unfolding in The Gaza Strip; but what is it that any of us do that actually makes a difference?  

Our new Government along with Australia and Canada’s – are also very reluctant to make any real noise about the genocide taking place in The Gaza Strip. Chris Hipkins was initially like a possum in the headlights on State Highway 2 when he was initially asked to comment on the situation as caretaker Prime Minister. At that time, he told us that this wasn’t the time or the place. 

Eventually, Chris Hipkins found his moral compass (which may well have been out of reach at the time) and strongly condemned the brutal actions of Israel. Jerry Brownlee then countered that with a great deal of fruitless tut-tutting directed not at the colonial actions of Israel – but at the leader of the opposition for suddenly becoming a leader and speaking like one. 

Posting and reposting content on social media that shows how aggrieved you are at what’s taking place in Ukraine and The Gaza Strip doesn’t make you the militant martyr you portray yourself to be.  

Posting and reposting horrific photos and footage of Israeli and Palestinian people suffering so unnecessarily doesn’t make you anything and it doesn’t change what’s happening there. Giving money to Medicine San Frontier, The Red Cross, Save the Children and other NGO’s on the ground there is what really matters. 

Getting back to the toothless politicians both here and around the world who for a range of poorly calculated reasons won’t take a strong stance on the Middle East conflict is a demonstrable sign that getting re-elected and pleasing our allies is all that really matters to them. 

My message to this new Government is simple and largely expected by many: be strong in your condemnation of Israel’s actions. Support this ceasefire.  

Act in an altruistic and humanitarian way so that the world knows that New Zealand does not - and will not ever support the barbaric actions of one of the world’s nuclear capable superpowers. 

If what’s taking place in the region of Israel and The Gaza Strip isn’t worthy of comment and condemnation from this new coalition Government; what is? 

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