Letter argues balanced blame is essential for Gaza peace prospects
The author criticizes Douglas Rooks' column for singling out Israel while ignoring Hamas's role in the Gaza conflict.
A letter rebukes Douglas Rooks' October 8 column for its one-sided focus on Israel, noting that the author mentions Israel or Netanyahu 24 times while referring to Hamas only twice. The response stresses that Hamas equipped Gaza’s civilian infrastructure for war, initiated the Oct. 7 assault, and hides fighters in tunnels, leaving civilians exposed to Israeli retaliation. It also highlights Hamas's ongoing captivity of Israeli hostages as a factor prolonging the conflict.
The writer argues that any realistic peace plan must evaluate the actions of both governing entities, not just Israel. He warns that ignoring Hamas's responsibilities undermines any genuine path to peace. The letter concludes that a balanced reckoning is necessary for lasting relief in the region.
Why it matters
It highlights the need for balanced accountability in discussions about the Gaza conflict.
How this story developed
- Sep 1 EU debates ban on settlement products as Israeli forces raze West Bank homes
- Sep 18 The UN rights office issued a warning that the displacement of over 33,000 refugees from West Bank camps may amount to crimes against humanity.
- Sep 23 A man in his forties was seriously wounded when a vehicle rammed a police car at a checkpoint near Modi'in on the road to the West Bank.
- Sep 23 The checkpoint’s security personnel have been reinforced and an investigation launched.
- Sep 28 A six‑storey apartment block collapsed, killing 21 people and prompting a lengthy rescue effort.
- Sep 28 Ed Miliband told the Labour conference that the UK will act on Palestine, backing sanctions on Israeli settlements and supporting a two-state solution.
- Sep 29 Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the raid.
- Oct 3 Miliband pledged comprehensive sanctions and a ban on imports and services that support Israeli settlements.
- Oct 5 Labour MP Emily Thornberry called on Britain to defy Israel’s directive to close its consulate in East Jerusalem, calling the move illegal retaliation.
- Oct 6 Powell’s talks concluded without an agreement before the 30‑day deadline.
- Oct 8 Consular staff removed the plaque and signage after the closure deadline passed.
- Oct 10 Israeli forces issued new evacuation orders for multiple Gaza neighborhoods.
- Oct 10 The consulate was officially renamed the UK Mission, Jerusalem and its staff was reduced to seven.
- Oct 12 A Gaza resident died of liver cancer after prolonged delays in medical evacuation.
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