As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

shocked,PA — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:34:02 GMT

"i support compulsory transfer,i don't in it see anything immoral"david ben-gurion you shocked me with your insensitivity and cruelty towards human life.hundreds & thousands of people killed.millions are refugees since but the founding father spoke for his nation.no wonder people want to blow themselves on you.this barbaric cruelty and shamelessness thats what makes up a nation named "isreal".BIGGEST HUMAN RIGHTS VOILATORS OF THE MODERN WORLD AND THEN THEY WANT US TO BELIEVE IN THEM.as an american i can't see why we should attach our names to them.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Bernardho — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:10:23 GMT

Arabs have to take responsibility for the rather minor refugee problem they created by urging the so-called Palestinians to fight Israel. Arabs have plenty of land and resources to take care of their own but choose not to help, instead creating an angry group of terrorists willing to blame Israel for all of their problems which are in fact caused by the Arab neglect.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

lee vinson woodbury tenn — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:18:22 GMT

first things first there has never been a palestine (the palestinians are arabs) and arabs have their own countries and secondly they were never "forced off their land" the arab countries said they would murder and drive the jews into the sea and told the arabs living in Israel to relocate until their plans were complete this was just another "final solution" against the jewish peoples the world will never learn leave the jewish people alone YHWH bless Israel and keep Her and Her people (the jews) safe

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

oh my God,NY — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:20:58 GMT

david ben-gurion,here we call it preconcieved murders or genocide.you call it "compulsory transfer"and see no evil in it.only God knows where you are gonna go with that.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Leo Elkin — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:39:09 GMT

An article you published today,when Israel celebrates the 60th Aniversary, is just d i s g u s t i n g.
Actually arabs atacked newborn Israel next day after
his creation, and they were doing that since May '48
during all that 60 years. In spite all of that, those bloody trubble years were enough for Israelites to turn bare desert they got to the blooming oasis and create the only on Middle East really civilized country. And they saved lives of the hundreds thousands arabs by giving them a job and place to live in Jewish State. And all those years so-called palestinians continue to live in their desert, doing nothing but hating and atacking Israel... Insted of
your article about suffer palestinian's it could be published a hundred memories of suffering israelites about their innochent victims who were killed
by the wild suiside-bobmers... I'm not a Jew, but I
want to say today out of my heart: Happy Birthday Israel!Long Life to you! Mazel Tov!
P.S. I have to think about the breaking with MSN...

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

johnny doe — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:46:43 GMT

What about the Israeli's that lived there before the Palestinians? How do you think the Israel's felt when Rome conquered them and after the fall of Rome instead of getting their land back the Palestinians took it? Shame on the media for being bias against Israel and not reporting it's suffering!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

gideon ngumbau — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:51:11 GMT

The cries of the children of Palestine who have suffered for years should be heard by the world. The United States should get serious about the creation of a Palestine state and end this suffering instead of openly being biased towards Israel. Palestines have suffered for long under Israels oppression! The USA should act now from an honest platform.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Tasha Frank — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:03:03 GMT

This is a very Sad. The only reason Isreal gained this land was because of terriost attacks but when the palastinians do this they are considered animals. I am against Terriost but someone needs to step in and stop this. This land was aquired by murder! Why dont the USA step in and do something. Oh thats right thats how The USA was established..and FYI I was born and raised in the USA

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

David, Kenosha,Wi — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:04:28 GMT

How can the anyone living on this land feel like they deserve to be there when they forced the same level of atrocities on these villagers that they had to go through throughout history. When will we all figure it out that we have to find a way to live together and forget our differences as neighbors. None of us are 100% correct in our beliefs because we are human and to err is to be human. God loves us all whether you believe in Jehova, Buddha, Allah, Jesus, Zues, or the many other names God has. I mourn for those who died in 1948 as well as all who have died before or after because of these horrible actions that governments have decided to take. May God be with us all and lead us to a more peaceful Earth.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

David Brown, Sacramento, Calif. — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:08:13 GMT

"Armed Jewish militant groups"--that phrase in this pro-Palestinian, anti-Israeli piece ires me. Sixty years ago, "armed Arab militants" (armed by Europeans in part) were doing their best to destroy the emerging Jewish state--and its inhabitants. And, horror of horrors, the Jews fought for their land. It's the same old tired approach. I guess it's ok for us to mourn 6,000,000 Jews who died doing nothing to defend themselves, but if they do anything other than be victims, they becomes crazed militant neo-fascists who deserve our scorn. Shame on you for perpetuating this double standard.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

jody — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:17:00 GMT

There could just as easily been a state of Palestine also celebrating it's 60th birthday on the same date but that is not the path they chose.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Carmelo Burgaretta, NJ — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:18:21 GMT

this is truely a sad day for the Palestinians!!
While our idiotic & warmonger Bush bestows Israel with congratulatory statements, Israel continue to built more Jewish only settlements contrary to the so called “Road Map” Bush stated that a Palestinian state cannot look like Swiss cheese, but what has he done to prevent from happening? NOTHING!!
He is a spineless politician just like all politicians that are under the thumb of AIPAC and other pro Israel lobbyist.
Our foreign policy needs to reflect the value of the American people that desire a just and equitable solution to a people that has been under a oppressive occupation for over 40 years.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

andy, detroit, mi — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:20:57 GMT

Let us live in the present, and not the past. Just as whites today are not responsible for slavery in the U.S. two hundred years ago, let's focus on the here and now rather than attack dead people for their ideology. Everyone is wrong, and everyone is right. Because religion is ultimately at the root of this conflict, it will never be resolved peacefully. Even if the Palestinians get their own state, will the land be enough? Probably not, because they have a right to the land as much as jews, muslims and christians.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

M Krogh, Louisburg, North Carolina — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:22:57 GMT

There appears to be a concerted effort to continually find fault with Israel where the woes of the "Palestinians" are concerned. Aren't there any "informed" individuals out there? When will the blinders be removed so that the plight of the Palestinians may be seen for what it really is. Yes, these people are suffering but at the hands of their own leaders and the people's willingness to accept it.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Tim, Arkansas — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:24:04 GMT

There is NO SUCH THING as a Palestinian! Media bias crap! They are Egyptians, Jordanians, Syrians, etc. Arabs who lived on the land AFTER it was taken from the Jews in the first place. Palestine is a knockoff of a Hebrew word for Philistine. Remember david and Goliath?? Just ONE of the many different tribes in the region in and around 135 A.D. This article was written by a Muslim Arab if anyone would happen to look at the author. This issue is an excuse the Muslims use to attack the Jews. The Arabs use the Palestine/Israel issue to try and keep the focus away from their own atrocities. Muslims kill, rape, maim BEHEAD innicents all the time and then wail about crimes when someone retaliates against them. Muslims are responsible for more murders/deaths than the KKK, the Spanish Inquisition, the US death penalty, and the IRA conflict all combined! Cut the antisemitic crap and face the truth - islam is a scourge on the earth and will either conquer it or destroy it. Unless the world wakes up and stops it's spread. Will MSMBC dare to post this blog???

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Said, London, UK — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:25:32 GMT

Johnny Doe - what about the Canaanites that lived in the land before the ancient Israelites ever arrived? How did they feel when the Israelites came and slaughtered almost all of them, including women and children? Instead of getting their land back, the Israelites took them. Shame on you for supporting ethnic cleansing as a means to create a state!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

David Powell, Ocean City NJ — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:32:44 GMT

Yes, there was some bad stuff by Israelis, but remember who started the war and did tons worse, the Palestinial terror groups. Even today, the biggest recievers of foreign aid are the Palestinians, none of that stuff goes to schools, power grid or water or sewer systems, just to rockets bombs and more killing. The terror groups run their society and I feel very sorry for them. If they learned to live with the Israelis it would be better for everyone.

As for the one who said Israelis were the worst himan rights violators in history you need to look up Maalot, where Israeli school kids were massacred by palestinian terrorists.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Rick B., Cambridge, MA USA — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:36:12 GMT

Your anti-Israel bias is transparent. Many of the supposed "facts" you report are simply wrong. Fiction. Blood libels. (You'll probably tell us the Jews were behind Pearl Harbor and 9/11 too.) In fact, the vast majority of Arabs who left did so voluntarily in concert with invading Arab armies openly bent on murdering the Jewish population. By any measure, the overall behavior of the Arabs was far worse than the behavior of the Jews, and the Jews were fighting for their lives. If you want to understand the real history, check out Oxford historian Ephraim Karsh and other reputable, credible sources. Your defaming lies about Jews are inexcusable.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Jon, Silsbee, TX — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:41:19 GMT

God said he will bless those who bless Israel. Human suffering is a terrible shame but the TRUE facts are the arabs will not rest until Israel is destroyed. Where is the sympathy for Israel? Any compromise with the PA will only lead to another compromise until Israel no longer exists. The US needs to take a much harsher stance against the PA and stick with our "no compromise with terrorist" stance. The day Israel once again became a nation is indeed a great day. God bless America and God bless Israel.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

LION MAN — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:42:32 GMT

In the past 6 years,, Israel's six million citizens have suffered 12,480 terrorist attacks. They have buried more than 400 victims -- a per-capita death toll six times that of America on September 11.

Yet, in an abhorrent act of injustice, Israel continues to be pressured by many into making concessions to fatah & hamas , the arch-patron of those terror attacks. In the long run, this means that Israel is being pressured into sacrificing its basic right to exist.

We should be supporting Israel's right to take whatever military action is needed to defend itself against its nihilistic enemies. Morally and militarily, Israel is America's frontline in the war on terrorism. If America is swayed by fatah & hamas latest empty rhetoric, and allows him to continue threatening Israel, our own campaign against terrorism becomes sheer hypocrisy and will, ultimately, fail.

Click to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view image
In the past 18 months, Israel's six million citizens have suffered 12,480 terrorist attacks. Click to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view image
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Consider the facts and judge for yourself:

Since its founding, Israel has been the victim
Since its founding in 1948, Israel has had to fight five wars -- all in self-defense -- against 22 hostile Arab dictatorships, and has been repeatedly attacked by Palestinian terrorists. Arafat is responsible for the kidnapping and murder of Israeli schoolchildren, the hijacking of airliners and the car bombings and death-squad killings of thousands of Israeli, American, Lebanese and Palestinian civilians. Today he ardently sponsors such terror groups as Hamas, Islamic Jihad and the al Aksa Brigade.

Click to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view image
Since its founding in 1948, Israel has had to fight five wars, all in self-defense, against 22 hostile Arab dictatorships. Click to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view image
Click to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view imageClick to view image

The Palestinians want to annihilate Israel, while Israel wants simply to be left alone. If there is a moral failing on Israel's part, it consists of its reluctance to take stronger military measures. If it is right for America to bomb al-Qaida strongholds in Afghanistan -- and it is -- then it is equally justifiable for Israel to bomb the terrorist strongholds in the occupied territories of judea and samaria.

Israel is the only free country in a region dominated by Arab monarchies, theocracies and dictatorships. It is only the citizens of Israel -- Arabs and Jews alike -- who enjoy the right to express their views, to criticize their government, to form political parties, to publish private newspapers, to hold free elections. When Arab authorities deny the most basic freedoms to their own people, it is obscene for them to start claiming that Israel is violating the Palestinians' rights. All Arab citizens who are genuinely concerned with human rights should, as their very first action, seek to oust their own despotic rulers and adopt the type of free society that characterizes Israel.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Carl, Falls Church, Virginia — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:46:36 GMT

Absolute one-sided crap masquerading as journalism. Our intrepid reporter appears to employ facts in a highly selective manner. Anyone know what happened that day in the streets of Hebron in August 1929? Hint: There was a terrible massacre by Arabs against dozens of Jewish settlers, one of several terror attacks against Jews carried out prior to 1948. Given Mr. Jabiri's last name, it shouldn't be too hard to figure out why he writes as he does.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

R. Boos — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:46:51 GMT

We, the United States, should extricate ourselves from this mess. We should not get involved in other people's civil wars.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Matt — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:48:09 GMT

The USA should not do anything for any foreign state any more. We've helped in the past, we help now. What do we get for it? A 'thanks' from a barely stable government leader, and death threats from the citizens.
News reports of every innocent casualty caused by our presence. The rest of the world believes our presence to be oppressive.
So, no, the USA should not do anything.
Congrats on surviving 60 years, keep it up, but do so at your own expense. Don't depend on others to step in forever.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Joseph, Las Vegas NV — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:48:47 GMT

It's refreshing to see the support for Isreal in the comments above. Isreal has sought peace for decades. They've been incredibly, even unreasonably restrained, amidst the violence of the Arabs. Any time they try to give their enemy land or provisions in return for peace, the Arabs return the favor by lobbing rockets and killing the innocent.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

ron cohen — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:50:16 GMT

Why arent there articles posted about the Jewish refugees from Arab lands and the killing and problems they had? There were equal in number and suffered many deaths. The reason we dont hear about them is that Israel solved the refugee "problem" by absorbing them, something the Arab nations have not and will not do because the Arab nations view them as pawns in a political battle.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Tom Mix — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:52:14 GMT

Interesting, forcibly moving people off their land, exterminating innocent people of a given creed or race regardless, sounds awfully familiar to Germany 1942, no?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Zigi, Los Angeles CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:53:00 GMT

It saddens me to see, that after so many years the world does not see and understand how much hatred radical muslims (not all muslims) have towards the western world. Over the past 60 years, Israel provides schools, hospitals, electricity, water for people who wish for it's destruction. Show me one country around the world that helps a nation of people who constantly attack and wish to destroy. If Israel wanted to hurt and destroy they would have randomly shot and killed people like Hamas does. That is not the case. Israel, b/c of the history of it's people has always been about human rights and taking care of people. The hatred of the world has only made jewish people feel stronger about who they are. Did Israel ever try to bomb a school? a hospital? Check out the facts and picture Americans living in fear w/ in the boundries of our country b/c a minority group terrors the general public.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Ruth b. — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:53:57 GMT

Shame on you. Israel was there for the jews.
It was time to take it back. G-d gave them back
what belonged to them. They suffered enough after
WW2. Don't compare to what terriost was then to today. There was a couple of hunderd jews against
thousand of arabs. How could the arabs lose.
They in return would have slaughtered the jews and
did many. You only half the story.
The jews did not want to kill them. They brought it
on themselves.
G-l bless the jews. I am jewish and come from
holocaust survivors. I am proud that the jews
got their country back.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Philly — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:54:03 GMT

Leo Elkin must be high! Arabs told the palastinians to leave? Wrong. Look at the number, maybe 300 jews have been killed since 2000 from terrorist attacks. At least a million palastinians were killed since then.

Its almost not worth commenting on because those who support Isreal are blind and are nothing short of hypocrits. The sad truth is that any critisism of Isreal, including Jimmy Carter, is not allowed. IF you read the news every day we hear about Isrealis plowing over and expanding new settlements in the west bank and then complain about rockets and suicide bombings. I hate to say it but its no wonder that they are the most hated people on earth and were almost exterminated

To me its simple just allow the palistinians the same weapons, and support that we give Isreal and let the winner take all. If the jews are God's Chosen People than they should have victory. If Allah is the real god then the palastinians will have their land. Maybe then some people will realize that God doesn't need your help. If after all he is god so why would he need help?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Fred, Endicott, New York — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:54:05 GMT

Shame on Israel and the United States for continuing the illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories and perpetuating the suffering of the Palestinian people. What irony, the victims of the Holocaust being responsible for such a humanatarian injustice!!!
Shame! Shame! Shame!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Bob — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:54:46 GMT

I can't believe how such one sided story gets posted by MSN... While any war brings the worst in all the sides involved, it's absolutely crazy to accuse Israelis of genocide. I think the author of this story should check all the facts (but then again, I think he already knows them) and stick to writing news instead of his meaningless, bitter, one-sided, pro-arab “fairy tale”.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Heather,Ca — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:55:19 GMT

"BIGGEST HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATORS OF THE MODERN WORLD AND THEN THEY WANT US TO BELIEVE IN THEM." Thank-you "shocked", it's about time someone said what so many of us are thinking. It sickens me the way the US quietly takes Israel's side. The Jewish people suffered greatly during WW2, unfathomable atrocities. So wouldn't you think they would want to show themselves as the most compassionate, caring people who understand what it's like to feel their people have no home?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Thursday — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:56:13 GMT

Tasha Frank,

All nations are born of bloodshed. It's a reality. Live with it.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

P. GLASNER — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:56:52 GMT

AMERICANS STOLE THEIR LAND FROM THE INDIANS, THE ENGLISH INVADED IRELAND AND SAID, "YOU CAN STAY, BUT IT'S OUR LAND NOW AND YOU HAVE TO DO WHAT WE SAY." SO HOW CAN WE CRITICIZE THE PALESTINIANS WHO FEEL THE UN IGNORED THEM IN 1948?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

john doe seattle Wash — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:58:11 GMT

While Isreal would like EVERYONE in the world to apoligize to them for all wrongs against Jews they will never Apoligize to anyone for their actions In 1948 THEY were considered as TERROIST (Live by the sword DIE by the sword) Accept the blame let the palistians get on with their State

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Derek Morgan, Charlotte, NC — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:01:51 GMT

This is one of the most biased pieces I have ever read and most of you have no idea what you are talking about. The author appears to be just as knowledgeable as the bulk of you. Apparently the historical record only dates back to 1948 now, how convenient for the Palestinians.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Edward — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:03:22 GMT

Israel has suffered, there is no question about that, but does Israel past suffering is enough reason to make others suffer now? Empires fall from within, we have not seen the end of the story, I just wish we realized we should be dealing with way larger challenges and ventures, (space exploration, genomics, etc.) rather than killing us like barbarians.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

David, Denver, CO — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:03:31 GMT

This is the last straw for me. On the day Isreal, a burgeoning example of democratic succes, which has succeeded in the middle of this palestinian cesspool of terror for the last 60 years, celebrated its anniversary, you bring us this garbage. Once again, only telling one side of the story. And written by an arab journalist! Outrageous. Coupled with MSNBC's incredible obama-bias (who has also supported palestinian terror during his days in Chicago), I will no longer watch MSNBC, nor will I browse this website.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Stephen Ojo Ogis — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:04:12 GMT

We all must remember that the Jewish nation once occupied this territory and was conquered by the Romans. For close to two thousand years, the jewish people suffered on the face of the earth, scattered over yhe whole world. It is logical that one day, this great people, with great historical background would come back home as it were even before they were conquered by the Romans. Those who occupied their land while they were in the wilderness of sorrow should have known that, Jehovah, the Almighty God will forgive Isreal its sin and bring him back home. When he come back home, woe shall surely betide who has occupied his home.
There is no sentiment about being killed or made to suffer as a result of the return of Isreal to the land that God promised him thousands of years ago.
Long live Isrea, long live Jerusalem, the City of David.
God bless his first love Isreal and Christian all over the world His new love

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Doron, Toronto, Canada — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:07:05 GMT

I'm right, you're wrong. You're right, I'm wrong. I'm good, you're bad. Not exactly the makings of a constructive dialogue, is it? Speaking as the Jewish son of an Israeli mother who grew up pre-State of Israel, going to university in West Jerusalem (because Jews weren't permitted in the East and their shrines were systematically desecrated), who dodged bullets on the way to school which came from the top of the wall of the old city, and who heard those famous radio broadcasts from Egypt urging the Arab residents to leave so the Jews could be driven into the sea (how's that for a run on sentence), I would be foolish to declare that her experience is the only one. I'm sure many were violently expelled from their homes as well. Bad was done on all sides. As stated by someone else earlier, Jews were granted tiny slivers of land by the U.N., but the Arab nations wouldn't have it and attacked. The Jews were ready to live in the pittens they'd been granted but to Egypt, Syria, Jordan, etc., one Jew was too much. You really think they were worried about so called Palestinians? If they really cared about they, they would have assimilated them into their countries instead of keeping them penned in hopeless refugee camps. Listen, I'm the guy whose less open-minded friends think he's the self hating Jew because he believes that the settlements are simply wrong and the checkpoints are dehumanizing and beneath the type of country Israel is supposed to be. I welcome a Palestinian State. However, can we please give the Israel-Bad Palestinians-Good thing a rest please. For most of it's history, Israel has had to endure actively hostile enemies bent on it's destruction on every border. 1967 happened because of an Egyptian and Syrian buildup in preparation for pre-emptive war aimed at the ending of Israel. That's Israel's fault, for winning that war? How about we decide everyone involved is a human being deserving of respect. How about Egypt stop airing anti-Semitic mini-series' on TV. How about Israel soldiers not treat Palestinians at checkpoints like vermin. How about Hamas stop purposefully and premeditately targeting civilians - children, elderly, etc. as though there could ever be any moral justification for that. How about Israeli governments stop making agreements to stop building settlements and then build some more. Need I go on. There's enough blame to go around which means there's enough opportunity for settlement as well. Let's start from that.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Pacheck, Huntington Beach, Ca. — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:07:14 GMT

It is what it is. Israel is on the land, Israel has paid for it in blood sweat and tears. And the land should remain theirs. If the Arab people who lived there did so in a peaceful manner, they would still be living there. Unfortunatly the reasons for them to constantly be fighting are many and can not be resolved in a peaceful manner. It will never change.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

willy brandon wi — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:08:45 GMT

I try to look at this picture as a whole. Therefore one must not simply look at a single battle or event, and take in the entire historical perspective.
This current fighting, is a part of a single longterm neverending Arab vendetta against Israel.
The arabs make no mistake, proudly proclaiming the total genocidal destruction of all jews. I have never heard of anything so hidious coming from the jewish state.
In EVERY high profile media event, the arab side is ALLWAYS distorting the facts, allways putting Israel down. They have no concept of what it would be like to simply form thier own Palestinian state. Instead they mill around in poverty, asking for aid, while thier leaders steal all of thier developement monies.
Like Arafat, and his wife.
What ever happened to the building of thier own nation?
The world has helped them over and over, but they want to destroy Israel first, and have it all.
It allways comes down to the dome on the rock.
This is what all the fighting is over. The site of the ancient Jewish temple.
The world body decided that they want Israel to exist as a nation in 1948, largly due to Albert Einstien.
The foolish arabs, unable to see anything beyond jewish genocide, have decided to neglect thier own people, and make as ugly a scenerio as humanly possible, in vain attempts to make Israel look like the perpetraitors. These people(refugees) could go anywhere in the world if they wanted to, as many have.
I thank God I wasnt born a muslim! I would have to be so miserable with myself, I might want to strap a bomb belt on and commit suicide by inflicting destruction on hardworking virtuous people.
My message to palestinian refugees is this: GET A LIFE!
Isreal fights for its right to exist. Arabs live to destroy Israel.( and all that is not arab) Remember Constantinople, 9-11.
Palestine has never existed. England formed the palestinian authority, not arabs. Palestine could exist, if the arab refugees wanted peace. They would be wise to build thier state, and maybe then attack Israel...But like history shows over and over, the muslim arabs are so violent, and disagreeing, that they prove to be thier own worst enemy.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Mark, New York NY — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:09:38 GMT

Thats the problem with thinking that you are Gods special creation.....they think they are entitled to Israel.

You know what, Jews? God made Arabs too. You are no more or less special than anyone else He made.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

ocean, detroit, michigan — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:09:42 GMT

I can't believe that the holocaust is still being used by some to justify the killing of Palestinians, " oh they suffered a lot, God has given them the land, let them kill whoever needs to be killed", this is plain terrorism.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Cindy L Geneva IL — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:09:48 GMT

I think this is wonderful, that Isreal actually exits today! God gave this land to Abraham, and he has protected the remnant of Isreal! According to the Koran all infidels are to die! It is really amazing that Isreal still exists when all the neighboring countrys want them to be history. Also why arn't the other RICH Arab/muslem countrys helping Palestine?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Melissa, Indianapolis, IN — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:10:07 GMT

To those of you who were shocked or appalled by Mr. Ben Gurion's statement in favor of compulsory relocation, please recall he was speaking in 1948, not 2008. Our attitudes toward human rights have changed much since then. Our own country relocated Japanese Americans to camps during WWII. Right or wrong, it was a socially acceptable thing to do at the time. Perhaps we should celebrate how far we have progressed as a nation. We still have far to go, especially as regards abortion and civil rights.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

a concerned global citizen — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:10:16 GMT

I sympathize with the Israelis that are living with the risk of suicide bombings everyday. However, I cannot stand by them when for every one Israeli that is murdered, hundreds of Palestinians are massacred in retribution. Israel's existence was justified on the grounds of providing a safe haven for persecuted peoples... now it has become the persecutor itself. The immoral and hypocritical Zionist agenda is not only creating more animosity and terrorists in the world, it is making Israel a dangerous place for Israelis.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Chuck Tilbury — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:10:24 GMT

As usual: Carefully crafted "news" designed to produce a specific opinion. Will it ever end?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

alan baltimore md — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:11:11 GMT

"I support compulsory transfer... I don't see in it anything immoral"...David Ben-Gurion.

Instead of inefficent, slow methods like massacres and driving people off their land, maybe they should have just rounded up the Palestinians, put them on trains to camps, and gassed them with Zyklon B, or would that just be too hypocritical?

I try to imagine if the Mexicans and Native Americans forced everyone else here (whites, Asians, Africans) off the land of the United States, say with the assistance of a great power like China, under the claim that it was theirs a few hundred years ago (a more recent claim than Jewish claim on Israel).

Gee, we could just ship all the white people back to Europe, all the Japanese-Americans back to Japan, I'm sure everyone in Europe would love having a few hundred million refugees move in... after all it should be there responsibilities since Europeans are white too, just like Palestinians and Saudis are both Arab...

I wonder how friendly all the refugee Americans would be towards the Mexicans and Native Americans now occupying their land... or for that matter to China which supported the Mexican and Native American claim to North America...

I'm sure Americans would not have any violent tendencies towards the people who drove them off their land, because Americans are not a violent culture at all, far from it, we are great examples of pacifism and non-violence...

Sarcasm aside... why expect people to have different reactions than you would have? I close with Shakespeare... "If you prick us do we not bleed, if you tickle us do we not laugh, if you wrong us, shall we not revenge?"

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

SUZIE DOE Des moines ia — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:11:11 GMT

It amazes me how the media shows the "poor Palestinians"after Isreal has taken out the bases used to launch rockets which the Palestinians have placed in the midst of CIVILIANS. We must remember the radical Islamics are the ones who strap bombs to their children to use as walking killing machines. The Palestinians are indeed Arabs who should have been absorbed into the Arab communities after the Jews got their homeland back I might add Jews will be there forever. Israel has never been a Palestinian state. It was Arabs living in the Jews homeland. The Palestinians are pawns for Syria and Iran.They are so desperate and full of hate and bitterness they have now elected Hammas as there leaders, what a sad state of affairs.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Gary James — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:11:22 GMT

This shocking anti-Semitic article is an editorial posing as news. No editor that was a fair and balanced newsperson would ever have let this go to press. There are dozens of missing facts like: "Israel's War of Independence (1948 War). Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia declared war on Israel. Egyptian, Syrian and Jordanian invasion began...". Gaza first shoot rockets into Israel and Israel responds and the anti-Semitic press reports on the response not the aggression. I am not a Jew and I find this journalism shameful. How about another small fact that there are 325 Million in the Arab world and 5.3 Million Jews in Israel (2006)? Or Saudi Arabia with a GDP of $325 B and UAE with $192 B vs West Bank and Gaza at $5 B GDP could donate a little land and money and end this thing. But no even Egypt ($127 B GDP) would not keep the Gaza border open and help Gaza.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Antonio, Grand Rapids, MI — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:11:26 GMT

I completely agree with Heather, CA. I couldn't have said it better myself.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

GH, Pennsylvania — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:15:37 GMT

Nice hit piece. This type of crappy "reporting" only has one purpose, and that is to stir up more trouble. There's a lot of empty land over there for those arabs to have, but, they still insist on killing each other and if the other Arab Nations won't accept the Palastinians, that should tell you something. There's more to this story than villagers getting pushed out of their villages in 1948. Lets add up the total dead on both sides during that year. Now lets add up and compare the total dead up until now. I have a feeling there are just as many Israeli dead as there are Palastinians.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Dzuy, Louisville, CO — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:17:28 GMT

An eye for an eye leaves both groups blind.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Meda, Newton, MA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:18:21 GMT

The Arabs attacked the Israelis when the state of Israel was created. The Arabs also rejected the UN partition plan which would have given them a homeland also at the same time.

How come there is no mention of all the Jewish refugees who were forced out of their homes in Arab countries where their families had lived for hundreds of years. Perhaps we don't hear about them because Israel took them in and absorbed them into Israeli society.

Why have the Arab countries refused to absorb any of these Arab refugees?

UN statistics seem to indicate about as many Jews as Arabs were displaced.

A more accurate and balanced story would have been appropriate, and is what I would have expected from MSNBC.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

alan in baltimore md — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:18:24 GMT

Ooooh and I almost forgot... Menachim Begin's terrorist bombing of the British administrative headquarters at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem on July 22, 1946...

91 people were killed (28 British, 41 Arab, 17 Jewish, and 5 others). Now Begin is considered a great Israeli statesmen...

I suppose the pro-Israel people can justify that by saying he is a freedom fighter not a terrorist...

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Allahu Akbar, Islam World — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:21:55 GMT

The best alternative is for the Palestinians to build casinos like the American Indians do. Israelis could come onto the Palestinian "reservations" and gamble all night which would put alot of cash in the Palestinian coffers. Everyone would then be happy. It's the only alternative because they will never get the land back, not in a million years.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Darksurge — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:23:00 GMT

While I do not support or condone the act of wholesale slaughter of any people, still, it should come as no surprise to anyone who is a student of history.. America isn't going to say anything negative about Israel doing what this country itself has done to its own indigenous people. What it did to the Black people.. NOW these folks want to complain? Far too little, far too late. The reality of it is human beings are savage brutal creatures that have historically done more TO each other than with each other, and in the past two thousand years the ONLY thing that has changed about humanity is the technology. All the issues like bigotry, slavery, religious intolerance, lust for power, greed that existed in the days of the Bible and Koran are STILL here.. The biggest difference is the efficiency of the tools in which people slaughter one another.
Does it suck? Yeah, it does, but it isn't going to change until we change it. When we fix the problems in America, THEN we should wory about the rest of the world. Charity they say begins at home. America is not the worlds Police Force.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Ayelet — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:25:11 GMT

I don't understand all this wailing. The Israeli Jews are simply returning to their home land. The 'Palestinians' were simply Egyptian or Jordanian when Israel was established. They have no claim over the land: neither histrocial nor moral. Look what happened in the little land they were given (as a gesture of good will) to control. Do you really want that chaos spreading elsewehere?!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Knowledge, Stolen Property, USA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:27:07 GMT

Israel was established when the Allied powers decided that what happened in America (circa 1600 to right about now) was cool. I am sure there are one or tow original decendants of the Native American (ooops...the country was not called America at that time) who would agree that there can not be any justice on stolen land!!!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

James, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:27:14 GMT

Real people (with a brain and heart) read. The rest, take a hike. You can’t handle this.

This article is about a family/people OBVIOUSLY being massacred and killed and you turn around and say it's their fault, that they are acceptable collateral damage. That the Arabs, since they have "so much money and land", are 100% obliged to take them in and provide for them. And totally ignore the fact that these Zionist (read Jewish) fanatics perpetrate these atrocities.

The next joke I hear about is that the Jews are the "chosen people". Oh really? Does that make Zionists (Nazi in behavior) chosen also? Who said they are chosen, the Bible? Who WROTE the Bible? The Bible was sent to the JEWS. Jesus didn't write the Bible; the JEWS compiled and wrote it. So you believe that they are chosen because they force feed it to you. Brilliant. And then you ignore the atrocities they commit because they are "chosen".

So when a Jew Zionist (Ben Gurion) twists and contorts what is obviously murder and genocide and calls it “compulsory transfer”, that’s ok because he happens to be a white Jew. If the Iranians decided to expel their Jewish population, they’d immediately be called terrorists and “anti-Semitic” for that. And in that same vein, you allow Jews to purposely fool you and to take the word exclusively for themselves: Semite.

Wrong.

From Dictionary.com:

Sem•ite [sem-ahyt or, especially Brit., see-mahyt] Pronunciation Key
–noun
1. a member of any of various ancient and modern peoples originating in southwestern Asia, including the Akkadians, Canaanites, Phoenicians, Hebrews, and Arabs.
2. a Jew.
3. a member of any of the peoples descended from Shem, the eldest son of Noah.

Do you see the word ARAB in the definition? I thought you did. Or maybe the dictionary is politically one-sided, racist, and anti-semitic too.

So by the LITERAL definition of the word, the biggest anti-Semites in the world are the Zionist Jews who are massacring the Palestinians. It’s funny to see in the exact same dictionary that the word “anti-semite” curiously and suspiciously refers to being anti-Jew EXCLUSIVELY. Well, I guess that says who wrote the dictionary then, heh? Nice going, but you’re not fooling this one.

The largest religion in the world is Christianity. The Jews have the Christians in check with the Bible, saying that they are the “chosen ones”. The only ones left to counter/wonder their atrocious claims are the Muslims, the Buddhists, and basically anyone who has half a decent mind to see the crimes they are perpetrating.
And all you guys saying “God bless Israel!”, “Long live Jerusalem, the City of David,” and all that other stuff, you need historical education. Want to find our who’s really anti-Christian? Do some research and see what the JEWS/ZIONISTS say about you Christians. I don’t want to mention it on here, because it’s BLASPHEMOUS to Jesus (peace be upon him) and Mary (peace be upon her).

You all need to seriously wake and see who the real oppressor is. We Americans have to stand up as real patriots and question our government’s support for a terrorist regime, Israel. Patriotism is not blind support of one’s country. Patriotism is to question the immoral of the government and to keep them in check. We are obviously not doing that.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Freeman,DC — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:29:37 GMT

I see that some people still fall in the "anti-Semitic" trap, FYI Arabs are semitic too.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Joe Fendel, Berkeley, CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:29:59 GMT

The headline kind of sums things up nicely: "As Israelis Celebrate, Palestinians Mourn." Both sides have suffered, both have faced challenges, both have seen moments of glory. But Israelis choose to remember their scars in solemn silence as they focus on the celebration, and on hope for an ever-better future. Yet Palestinians continually remove their scabs, reopen wounds that should have been healed long ago, and mourn, mourn, mourn. No progress, no change in attitude, no attempts to look forward toward tomorrow and work toward making it better than yesterday - just mourning. Mourning for a week is appropriate, and for a year is understandable, but mourning for sixty years is pathological.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

mw. maryville, tn — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:30:12 GMT

The fight for "that" small piece of land started long befor 1948. It included Arabs, Jews and the British. As for that perticular time though, in 1948 the Israeli government asked many Arabs to stay in the cities and live side by side. The Arab armies dropped leaflets and used loud speakers to tell them to go the outer areas and await the destruction if the Jews. Apon doing so the foundation for the refugee camps were layed. They choose to live in newly formed camps and hope for the destruction of the Jews more than to live side by side. It was a fight started 100,s of years befor then and it remains in progress today.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Denny, Painesville, OH — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:30:16 GMT

I have read extensively about the history of Israel and I know that this article is right on. It is a shame that so many good americans have been brainwashed by what a appears to be a U.S. Media under jewish control. I also travel internationally a lot and I can say with full confidence the rest of the world see's the true picture. Reverend Wright is right to say that 9/11 was a result of our "chickens coming home to roost" and by the way I am a white 50 year old middle class American who simply uses his own brain to make conclusions, not the media's.

We should stop our mindless support of Israel before it's to late.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Goldman — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:31:25 GMT

We use the holocaust to justify our actions against the Palestinians. I was a soldier for 3 yrs and we humiliated them for no reasons. You can't extinguish the rage and honor they possess. I am ashamed.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Deryl, Atlanta GA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:32:45 GMT

Arabs have suffered at the hands of Israelis and have attacked in return causing equal suffering. This has been going on and will only continue because of hate on both sides of the border.

America should stop sending supplies, military aid, and money to Israel. They are clearly just as bad as the Palestinians and it is hypocritical to side with them on a basis of defending them from what they are equally guilty of.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Michael, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:32:53 GMT

Please. The Palestinian Arabs were told by the Arab League back in 1948 to leave the land and that after the Palestinian Jews were driven into the sea, the Arabs would be able to go back home. Well guess what? The Palestinian Jews survived the attempt by 22 armies to destroy them. The proper thing for the Arab countries to do would have been to welcome the Palestinian Arabs into their countries and let them live productive lives. But NO!, they had to become a political football to be used to try and destroy Israel ever since.

Also, Israel is the only country in the world that, after having won a war and gaining land, has given land back in return for the promise of peace. Well, guess what? The Palestinian Arabs could have peace if they, and those who support them, would allow the Palestinian Jews to live in peace as well and to recognize their right to live in the area as well. No "back to the pre-1967 borders." That'll just give the Arab nations the impetus to try to destroy Israel again.

Arabs in Israel live better than Jews in the Arab countries. TRUTH.

The only "nakba" here is the intransigence of the Arab countries to do the right thing.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

David Los Angeles CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:37:27 GMT

Deir Yassin is always brought up as it is the only genuine and valid incident that the so called Palestinian Arabs can call an atrocity perpetrated against them by the Jews re-establishing a sovreign Jewish State, in the area where it stood 2000 years before. It is an embarresment, lamentable and wrong but significantly singular. On the other hand the atrocities , Arab on Jew, make a list as long as ones arm.This is a disgusting distortion of reality, a one sided out of context view of things. Arab anti Jewish act have a long history. Examples may be found in anti-Jewish riots in Alexandria in the 3rd century BCE. Philo of Alexandria described an attack on Jews in Alexandria in 38 CE in which thousands of Jews died, read that again, thousands, and it has never stopped. While Deir Yassin is horrible and regretable, it IS isolated. Many hundreds of thousands of Jews go out of their way each day to build a better, peaceful, co-existant future in the world. Where are the corresponding Arabs. All I hear is hatemongering and further threats of extermination. The Arabs could have had a state too 60 years ago. THEY turned it down. The biggest violaters of Arab rights and killers of Arabs are the Arabs themselves..Iraq, Lebanon, Gaza. It is a disgrace how they "cry" about the plight of their "Palestinian" brothers but have never absorbed a single one as a "refugee". In fact it is explicitly forbidden to grant them citizenship of another Arab country. Stop this jackass journalism, get down with the truth and maybe we will get somewhere.
Long live the Nation of Israel, Long live the State of Israel.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Jack Calif — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:37:43 GMT

The fact is taken out of context. Take a look at what happened to Jews living in Arab countries. We were not offered the same courtesy as being displaced. Fact is, we go on with our lives and prosper. Palestinians! Do the same, rebuild your life and prosper. Fight injustice within your own people. Find peace within your heart. SHALOM!
Israel! Mazal Tov

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Robert Nema — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:41:59 GMT

Well said Ron Cohen.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Pam, Houston, TX — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:43:12 GMT

I don't see the "Jewish State" gunning for Americans. However, I do see the other side killing us...pretty much a no brainer as to who we support.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Rich Doe — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:44:28 GMT

No doubt Arabs were "forced" to flee in 1948, but Arab historians have admitted that many fled because they were urged to do so by Arab radio broadcasts. Lets not also forget that there was no need for any fighting if the Arabs would have accepted the UN partition of two States in '48. Finally, no mention of the subsequent expulsion of Jews from surrounding Arab countries after the war.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Everett Carter, Sioux Falls, SD — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:45:36 GMT

Most Palestinians were told to leave the land by the Arab Armies so there would be nothing protecting the Jews. There may be some unfortunate stories such as this one, but there are also Jewsih stories.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Bill, Dallas Texas — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:46:00 GMT

The Palestinians need our help. The Zionists need our condemnation.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

mw. maryville, tn — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:47:27 GMT

OK, 2 things. First israel has proven if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone. Second, showing compasion because you were once a victim only showed a potentail enemy your weakness. Im not saying you have to be hard a cruel, but you cannot show your weakness.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Rex, Clermont, FL — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:47:37 GMT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Betty Wingfield — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:48:17 GMT

HAPPY ANNIVERSAY ISRAEL, MAY GOD PROTECT YOU.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Mr. S — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:50:41 GMT

The Arabs living in Palestine have only themselves to blame. They could have had a state back in 1948, and the late 1990's and both times tossed the chance away.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

karen, knoxville, tn — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:50:44 GMT

We can understand that atrocities were committed and received by both sides--only a matter of degree separates them. However, when will the Palentinian people be able to move on? They are living somewhere--even if conditions are not what they wish. What industries do they participate in? What products do they make and sell to the world? What do they do with their days? "Victim" is not a purpose for living. It is a sad reality, but it is NOT a purpose. I would love to turn on the news and see Palestinians doing something other than rioting in the streets, shooting off weapons to mourn a fallen fighter, and complaining about being the recipient of the world's welfare. May God help the Palestinians to forgive and to resolve to become a productive society that the world will look on with amazement for all they have overcome!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

PALESTINE NORTHRIDGE CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:52:38 GMT

IT IS DISGUSTING TO SEE THAT SOME IDIOTS BELOW ME ACTUALLY CAN SAY THAT THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A PALESTINIAN! DO YOU NOT KNOW HISTORY. HOW DARE U SAY THAT.THATS LIKE SAYING THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN AMERICAN. THEY ARE EITHER FROM ENGLAND OR BRITIAN. THATS IS JUST PLAIN STUPID. I HAPPEN TO BE A PALESTINIAN AND VERY PROUD OF THAT. THERE WILL FOREVER BE A PALESTINE. WE WILL NEVER GIVE OUR LAND UP. THE JEWS NEED TO GO AND FIND ANOTHER PLACE TO LIVE. WE ARE NOT DECENDANTS OF THE ISRAELIES. THEY ARE NOTHING BUT LIARS AND MURDERORS! AND SHAME ON THE AMERICANS FOR STANDING BY THEM. PALESTINE WILL BE REBORN....JUST WAIT AND SEE. HISTORY WILL REPEAT ITSELF!!IAM SICK OF ISRAELIES ACTING LIKE VICTIMS....BUT THE AMERICAN MEDIA MAKES IT THAT WAY.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Doron, Toronto, Canada — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:52:59 GMT

To Alan in Baltimore on the King David Hotel attack. This is a perfect example of the moral relativism that plagues this conflict. Aside from not hearing you have any opinion on Yasser Arafat's status as a terrorist or freedom fighter (who attacked schools and city busses), have you ever heard of Hamas or the PLO calling in a warning before an attack to spare innocent life? That's what Begin's group did. The British chose to ignore it. An can we remember that the hotel was headquarters to the British Mandate Secretariat - a military target. All of that said, I consider it a brutal and unjustified attack. My only point is that it seems only Israeli actions bear scrutiny from you and others. Israel is that great human rights violator, yet Arabs live in the state and serve in the parliament (yes, it has a parliament...in the Middle East!). How did or do Jews fare in Arab countries? Oh, wait, there are barely any left because their presence was and is not tolerated. Moral relativism doesn't bolster your argument, it obliterates it.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

D, RI — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:54:14 GMT

Arabs, form a state, get over it, Israel was developed for a safe haven and is there to stay.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Jim Burge, Lansdale, Pa. — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:55:45 GMT

A good article . When people are going to wake up and realize what happened in Palestine ? When ??????????????

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Talaat Mostafa, Edmonton, Canada — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:57:04 GMT

I am shocked by the level of lies the world is willing to accept. The Israelis are celebrating their independence !! Does not the word “independence” mean that their country was occupied by some foreign forces from which they gained their independence ? Or at least means that they existed beforehand?
The history is preserved. Before 1948 there was no Israel. There was only Arab living in Palestine. The British took the Palestinian land by FORCE and established the state of Israel. It is a simple case of foreign occupation. If any body has a right to gain independence and free their land, it is the Arab. I failed to know what exactly are the Israelis celebrating? Are they celebrating the fact that they existed on stolen land for 60 years and that the injustice resulting from creating Israel has resulted in suffering and displacement of millions of Palestinian? What is worse is the fact that world’s nations, Arab and non Arab alike, are turning a blind eye to the truth while bragging about supporting human rights ! What about the Palestinian’s rights ? Do not they qualify as human?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

William, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:57:11 GMT

Wow there is a surplus of hate in this world. What Britain and the US did to Palestinians was wrong. The Jews had no right to expel people of land the had already settled. I think its funny that some people on this blog try to marginalize Palestinians by saying there is no such thing, they are simply Arab. However, the same argument can be made about the Jews. Jews living in Germany for 600 years are not Israelies, they are German. they have no right to a land they had not been in for half a milenia. However, racism and a undying wish to get Jews out of the European continent led to the creation of the illegal state known as Israel. Palestinians have every right to fight for what is theres. How many people from 1948 are still alive? It can not be compared to the spread of 200 years with American slavery like some idiot mentioned in a separate blog. I know I am not willing to fight WWIII over these murderers. For some black goop and a strip of desert on the other side of the world. But when you are a 45 year old male i guess you really have to worry about getting killed in the Middle East because your chances of being drafted are nill. Open your eyes to the truth America is our younger generation who is going to pay dearly for the xenophobic, ill conceived plans of a older almost obsolete generation that currently is dragging our country into a hole

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Carl, Illinois — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:02:24 GMT

Great article

Why do Israelites complain when they receive attacks from Arabs? if they believe that nations are born out of bloodshed, then they should expect a lot more of that.

It is because they want the rest of the world to believe that they honorably earned their land, that they are the victims here. (Around 200 Palestinians killed for every Israelite killed).

When they call Americans "hypocrites" because they live in stolen land, it is like, because somebody killed, then I can righteously kill.

Israelites are essentially saying that this is their time to kill and steal, previous events give them that right, live with that.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

William, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:02:27 GMT

Kudos to tis writer for having the balls to tell the truth. Hate blinds the eyes of the Pro-Israeli movement. They need to continue their fight for independence and America need to mind their own business. I guess we dont have enough problems at home to deal with.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Glen Pekofsky — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:02:56 GMT

Doron, Toronto, Canada - I applaud you for what you have written. I truly believe that if more individuals could objectively consider all facts (in any situation), we could all benefit. To borrow a trite phrase my mother constantly repeated while I was growing up, and which I wholeheartedly identify with as an adult, two wrongs don't make a right.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Juan — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:07:21 GMT

We as outsiders, got to let this people solve their issues, as a modern world they should decide the way they want to live (or kill each other) we are not perfect (but we try) this is humand kind, we do atrocities and then turn around and give an opinion on a subject that has nothing to wiht us, and is not about closing our eyes to reality or genocide! if we were to do that, we would be another israel-palestinia, because what country has not been conquer? didn't the catholic church burned and kill in the name of god? didn't germany wanted a better world, are we not trying to help irak? isn't it venezuela helping colombia? Mazel Tov! Israel, god bless America and help Palestinia!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

At last..., Dayton, Ohio — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:15:11 GMT

"The Catastrophy " does not even begin to describe to what happened to the Palstinians... Israel's creation started with masacares (vey few know, or care to know about)..And it's history is filled with injustice, cruelty, and sub humane treatment of the Palistinians. Deporting Palstinians from their land, and shipping Jews from Europe is how Israel was created. Israelies were not people fighting for their rights, in their own land as some seem to think... People don't just choose to blow themselves up, they are driven to it by their everyday despair.. But the world just watches, and gives excuses and approval for Israel for it's own genocide... Palistinians have been robbed of everything. Their refusal to simply die quitely is natural. They are now living as either refugees, or as prisinors in their own villages with fences seperating families from each other.. No schools for their children, or hope for their youth. Does it make sense to divide the world now as it was it in biblical times?? don't forget that before the Israelites there were Canaanites...How far back do you want to go??

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

John Ellis, Ponce, PR — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:19:27 GMT

TO THE PEOPLE WHO RUN THIS THING: Please consider placing the most recent comments first, as is done by default in most email inboxes. Your leaving the earliest comments at the top means that in many cases the most recent comments don't get read at all while the earliest are read time and time again. It isn't fair.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

John, Houston, TX — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:22:34 GMT

Ocean,

You wrote:

<<I can't believe that the holocaust is still being used by some to justify the killing of Palestinians, " oh they suffered a lot, God has given them the land, let them kill whoever needs to be killed", this is plain terrorism.>>

And I can't believe the deaths of 6 million Jews, Arab rejection of the U.N. resolution dividing the land, multiple nations declaring war on the Jews in the aftermath of that rejection, a proclamation declaring that the Arab inhabitants of Israel at that time, and four wars were ignored in your justification of your point. It is terrorism, indeed, but not on the Jewish side.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Edward , Queens, New York — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:25:27 GMT

The state of Israel is a digusting parasite that is has been exploiting the power and reputation of America for the past 60 years. Israel has not been contructive, it has not been a force for world peace and its values fly in the face of what America has become. In America we grant equal rights to all those born within our borders. We dont segregate a group due to there religion or ethnicity, we dont build a seperation wall because we feeled threatened by different people or cultures. We the people of America are good people who beleive in truth and justice. Israel is a country built on a lie, the first lie that one people ought be superior to others. The Jewish Supremacy problem Israel is now experiencing was doomed from the start. The premise of Israel is bigoted. There is no amount of spin or alteration of the truth that can possible make the concept of a Jewish state forcibly inserted amongst hostile Arab neigbors includeing ethnic cleansing of native Arabs into anything looking like a good idea. History has proven how foolish the establishing of Israel was. Israel is not a majore destabilizer of the world and peace. It has spawned countless wars, endless terrorism, and severe damage to the relations of America with strategically significant nations around the world. Israel and its nuclear arsenal just may cause World War Three, and thats not an a vague possiblity considering how militeristic the tiny state is. Why would a country the size of New Jersey need 200 nuclear war heads? Israel is a threat to the world, its interest conflict with those of greater humanity. Blaming Arabs for fighting Israel is like blaming America for fighting the British. The neigboring countries had good reason to resist and over the years the threat Israel presents has only increased. How many wars because of Israel. How has Israel made Jewish people better off. The assumption that Jews cannot trust gentiles enough to live amongst them is absurd. Jews dont need a country and most certainly not one surrounded by hostile neigbors with a massive native population that has been living as refugees for 60 years to appease some extremist religious prophecy.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

johanah, seattle, washington — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:29:26 GMT

it really disgustes me the way the U.S. takes side with the israels, the jewish were treated horable back then but that doesn't mean they take their anger on the palestinians they should take revange on the germany not palestine but they don't have the guts to do it so they take on poor people who are defenseless.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Larry — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:30:44 GMT

When the British withdrew from Palestine in 1948, Egypt, Syria, and Jordan attempted to invade Israel instead of respecting the United Nations mandate creating Jordan and Israel and to exist in peace. This was only three years after the Holocust. The same situation exist today, sixty years later.

I am sorry what happened to the writer's family, but the Arabs only have themselves to blame. If they would accept Israel's existence and leave in peace, there would be no problem. But that is to naive. The Shiates, Kurds, and Sunnis can not even live in peace themselves

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

H R Doughty, LeClaire, IA — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:33:40 GMT

Another piece of palestinian terrorist propaganda! You people act like there are 2 sides to this.What a piece of garbage; unworthy of serious publication.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Leah PettePiece, Long Beach, Calif — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:35:28 GMT

As a Jewish woman whose mother was a refugee from the Holocaust I want to add my voice to the many here, what the Israeli government has done to the Palestinian people is reprehensible! My husband and I lived amoung the Ultra Orthodox in Israel for nearly a year and I would like to share with you a very sad fact, while the Palestinian and many other Arabs teach their children to hate Jews,and Americans the Ultra Orthodox of Israel teach their children to hate anyone who is not exactly like them! When a TRUTH such as this becomes clear to someone like myself, I feel it a duty to say that there must be a State for both peoples, the Palestinians have suffered enough, there are good people amoung them, just as their are good people amoung all ethnic groups, somehow there must come a solution that would allow both nations to live in Peace, after all Abraham did have two sons, and that makes us cousins, I have friends who are Palestinian and never has a one of them ever been so much as rude to me, they are in fact a peaceful people who simply want to live in conditions that are equitable. THere are true terrorists amoung the Israelis just as there are amoung the Palestinians, but that doesn't give the world the right to abuse the entire nation! There is an old adage which states: There is so much bad in the best of us, and so much good in the worst of us, that it ill behoves any of us to find fault with the rest of us!
Really Alan, no violence in Americans, when was the last time you read a newspaper! The gangs here in Califronia are amoung some of the most violent people on earth!

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Carlene, Cincinnati Ohio — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:37:32 GMT

When you "establish" one state within another, chaos should be expected. Israel established within Palestine; the USA established in Turtle Island (Indian Land). Refugees is what you create and it's what you get but who cares? As long as the Zionist Jews get and keep what they stole, few care about the people they stole from or the people they murder daily. For SHAME.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Sherri, Seattle — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:39:53 GMT

Is their no room in any one's heart for the profound sadness of people who suffer? This article describes a massacre of innocent people, for the sole purpose of removing them from homes they had lived in for generations. I don't care who attacked first, second or last. Ethnic cleansing is wrong, immoral and devestating. It would make Israel stronger to own up to the fact that they also have blood on their hands.

There are no clean hands in this terrible conflict that seems to have no end. Vengence, revenge and more vengence...a cycle of hysteria, fear and terror grip the entire region.

When people experience atrocity, they never, ever get over it. That is indeed something everyone has in common. Israeli mothers and Arab mothers both mourn when life is taken, dreams crushed and hope abandoned.

Simply on a very personal level, can so many of you not feel this family's pain? It takes nothing away from your own very real pain and suffering to acknowledge it. It makes you a better, more thinking, and more empathetic human being. Simply feeling their pain gives nothing away and it might even lead to the beginnings of a seeing a way out of this mess.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

A Palestintan — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:39:55 GMT

This is to Tim in Arkansas and to everyone else who thinks that we Palestinians, are not real. Sorry to rain on your little "I am stupid" day, but yeah, we're real and we OWN that land the jews stole from us.

Wanna know how they did it?

An WHOLE Town gone over night, tree groves cut down.. And by who? How?

Bulldozed down by the jews.

Okay, we're not asking for ALL of it back, but what about the 1967 borders? Give them some room! But, ohh no.. Remember when the Israelis had to leave in 2005? They cried that they had to give up their land to us.

Babies.

I support Hammas, they want to help the people of the West Bank and Gaza, and how do they do that when the Jews are shooting at them? They have to SHOOT BACK.

OPEN your eyes people, both sides have blood on their hands; I know this but how can you deny it any longer?

Okay, 9/11 was arabs; not jews. I can see that and you'll call any arab a killer. But, not every arab is a killer. Believe me, My father isn't, nor is the rest of my family.

My last word on this is..

Bush can't do anything to solve the problem over there, and if he can.. Wow.

Just. Wow.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

norm, st. louis, MO — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:40:29 GMT

"Only Arabs living in Palestine" before Israel writes one woefully ignorant and biased respondent. And the Jews had no claim there, and the Arabs lived there from time immemorial, blah, blah, blah, blah! Hogwash! Official census figures taken by the British during their mandate from World War I to 1948 prove that there were dozens of nationalities, many languages, many religions, and almost as many Jews as Arabs living in the region. It was the illegal and undocumented influx of itinerant Arabs who came to take advantage of economic opportunities offered by Jewish development, and Arab mercenaries imported by Arab leadership to harass the Jewish communities that swelled the Arab population abnormally and far beyond their reproductive capacities. Meanwhile the British did everything in their power long before and after World War II to block Jewish immigration from Europe, even after the League of Nations declared after World War I that the land should be a new Jewish homeland. The Islamic Arabs just couldn't swallow it, even though Israel is just a sliver of land along the Mediterranean Coast. The problem is that they have since the dawn of Islam considered both Jews and Christians to be "dhimi" a derogatory term much like our derogatory terms for minorities. In fact the British, in violation of their mandate from the League of Nations gave away almost a third of the designated Jewish homeland to the Arabs, and it is now called the West Bank.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Jarrod, Pittsburgh, PA — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:41:48 GMT

As an American, I find it amazing that we one -sidedly support Israel. There are 2 sides to every struggle, and the plight of the palestinan people is heartbreaking. I watched a 'Gaza strip' documentary recently, and its no wonder the children grow up to hate Israel. I am NOT anti-sematic, I have no problem with Jews, it is only the State of Israel , and its treatment of palestinians that troubles me. When will Americans see this is the main cause of terrorism. When you take a peoples rights and dignity, they have nothing left to lose. You would think that after what Jews indured in wwII, that they would have MORE sympathy for thier fellow man. The state of Israel proves otherwise. My generation is not fooled.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

A McCauliff — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:46:40 GMT

Let's say that I am living peacefully in my ancestral home. We will call me "Palestine". A group of evil men decide that they want to wipe a group of people off the face of the map. We will call those groups "Nazis" and "Jews". Then a third group of people [let's call them "The Allies"] says, "Hey sorry about the whole final solution/genocide thing - if we give you Palestine's land, will that make it all better?"

Now, 60 years later, the Jews are dancing on the graves of my family as they celebrate their "independence" - and many parts of the world celebrate with them.

WHERE is the justice in that? For centuries, the Palestinians shared their land with the Jews, and would have continued to do so, but that wasn't good enough...the [now] Israelis want it ALL. And they will take it, no matter what they have to do to get it.

How would we feel if the Allied forces had said, "Sorry about the whole Hitler thing. Here, take Texas."? Would we support a Jewish state if it were located there? or in New York? or what about Rhode Island?

Give up your implausible Zionist justification.

With the help of the British and American governments following World War II, the Jews stole EVERYTHING from the Palestinians. I - an Irish-American Catholic - wish the Palestinians well. Take back what is yours, and know that you are fighting the good fight.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Bob, San Diego, CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:49:48 GMT

Anyone who complains about the fact that the state of israel is a thorn in the side of the world is called antisemitic. Calling a rotten banana rotten doesn't mean that one hates bananas. Let's face it, the gun-weilding paramilitary jewish groups that committed these atrocities 60 years ago are heralded as heros in israel when in fact they were murdering thugs. At least the Palestinians have good cause to hate and want to kill israelis...

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Vic Reale, queens, new york — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:50:00 GMT

The complex Arab-Israeli conflict is sometimes not
fully understood because people do not know the history
behind both sides claim to the Land via "entitlement".
Both sides will agree that SEMITES have lived in
the region for the last 10,000 years. According to
JEWISH history, the Creator of the Universe (GOD)
communicated to the Semite, Abraham, to settle his
tribe in the Land now known as Israel.
GOD also made a "covenent" with the semite, Abraham,
that his BLOODLINE would be ENTITLED to the Land
forever. therefore, the people ENTITLED to the land
now known as ISRAEL are supposed to be the descendents of the semite, Abraham.
Modern Arabs ARE semites and since they never were
dispelled from the area can be considered descendents
of Abraham. Pls note that Abraham was NOT a Jew
because "jews" did not exist back in Abraham's time.
"jews" are descendents ONLY from the man, Judah,
son of Jacob. Modern-day Arabs do NOT consider
Eastern European Jews to be the Semitic people of the
old testament and definitely NOT descendents of the
semite Abraham. Eastern european Jews (ASHKENASI)
are CONVERTS to Judaism which they did in the 8th
century and their ROOTS are from the KHAZARS...NON-
semitic people who lived near the russian Steppes
and driven NORTH to Eastern europe by the Mongol
invasions. therefore, THERE IS NO SEMITIC BLOODLINE
NO ENTITLEMENT to the LAND...AND THE ARABS KNOW THIS
AND THAT IS WHY THEY ARE FURIOUS. the ruling People
of modern-day Israel ARE EASTERN EUROPEAN JEWS
NOT related to the ancient Judeans, NOT related to
the ancient Hebrews and certainly NOT related to
the semite Abraham. the modern-day Israeli of
eastern european origin is masquerading around as
a Semite and that...is a LIE and the SOURCE of all
the conflict and pain in the middle east.
for centuries, Arab Moslems, Arab christians and
Arab Jews lived together in Palestine without a problem. In 1948, Eastern european non-semitic Jews
claiming to be the legal descendents of Abraham and
Moses arrive in Palestine to "claim their land" from
2000 years ago, expell the locals from the land
and create 60 years of international conflict and
bloodshed. IF this land was rightfully supposed to
be owned by "jewish" people approved by GOD, WHY
would there be such conflict?? WHY would the 'CHOSEN
RACE" have to fight to remain in it??
respectfully submitted
vic Reale
Reality zone

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

John Ellis, Ponce, PR — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:50:17 GMT

Jewish people continually bemoan the Babylonian captivity, the Diaspora inflicted by the Roman Empire, and of course the Holocaust. They are angry, shocked, and horrified by the genocide and mass deportations that their ancestors suffered in these events. They choose not to read in their own Pentateuch (the Christian Old Testament) the history of Hebrew/Israelite invasions of the territories of other peoples, the Canaanites and others, which consisted of massacres of entire populations in their own homelands--all in the name of--What? Yaweh? God Gave this Land to Me?
How about LEBENSRAUM? The Hebrew/Israelite/Jewish people have throughout their history waged the same kind of total warfare against resident populations that Hitler and the Nazis did, and for the same reasons--the same warfare that they have been waging against the Palestinians since the 1940s. The only difference between the two groups is that the Hebrews/Jews/Israelis justify their depradations by the name of their god Yaweh, who instructs them to massacre men, women, and children and occupy their lands; whereas the Nazis justified their atrocities in the name of racial superiority. Unless the Israelis admit at least to themselves what they have done and are doing and then take steps to right the wrongs they have committed, neither they nor the world will have any peace.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Russell Williams Hagerstown, MD — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:52:51 GMT

About 60 years ago people were driven from their homeland. As they were trying to get away they were attack from the air and one of the shiploads of refugees was sunk. Yet the world seems to not really care about getting these people back to the land their families had live in for generations.

No I am not talking about Palestine, I am talking about East Prussa. Why is there no world wide cry for the right of return of the East Prussians?

What is different about Israel that makes it a villian while Russia and Poleland who contune to occupy East Prussa are not villians?

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Aging Hippie, Los Angeles CA — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:53:46 GMT

In order to balance press coverage in the Middle East, all news organizations should henceforth refer to Hamas as "democratically elected Hamas" and Israel as "apartheid Israel".

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Jarrod , Pittsburgh, PA — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:53:52 GMT

The problem is rooted in religion. I could claim the great god bigfoot gave me New York. Once we as a species move past mythology as a basis for foreign policy, and treat every man,woman, and child alive with EQUAL RIGHTS AND DIGNITY, we will be far better off. NOONE IS SPECIAL!! WE ALL BLEED RED.

As Israelis celebrate, Palestinians mourn

Donald Veach, Cambridge, MA — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:35:40 GMT

Thank you Lawahez.