For the record...

I'm going to start writing about Gaza soon; but before I do, I've decided it will be prudent to put some stuff on the record first...

First, I'll say that I've always been a Zionist. I was brought up a Zionist and consider this an integral part of my identity. However, I must also add that for the last 5 years or so (since I spent a period of time living in Israel) I have sat staunchly on the left side of the movement.

This means that I fervently believe in the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. I believe in the speedy establishment of a democratic Palestinian State on most, if not all of the West Bank and Gaza along the pre-1967 borders. It also means I oppose Israeli settlement in that area and consider settlement activity an unjustified barrier to any peace process.

While I am openly and proudly a Zionist, I am not someone who will defend the actions of the Israel government blindly. I am and have always been a critic of the actions of Israel when I consider them to be unjust, heavy handed, illegal or all three.

I'll be happy to expand on any of these points on request.

Glad we got that sorted...