While the current debate on Palestinian statehood is fraught with complexity which can’t be ignored, the fundamental issues at play are still as current and relevant today as they were in 1947. These are issues of human rights, equality, and peaceful co-existance.

International sympathy for the plight of Eurpoean jews after WWII – and consequently, support of the Jewish State – was understandable. They were refugees in exodus to their holy land and they deserved support from those nations who had the means and might to help.

Sadly, support from the western world (mainly the USA) wasn’t motivated by compassion alone. A rich supply of natural resources and strategic positioning during the Cold War era made Israel an invaluable ally in the region, and the support of wealthier nations has historically tipped the balance of power in Israel’s favor.

Peace efforts, which twenty years ago seemed to be moving forward, have essentially come to a stalemate in recent years, creating a status quo of unrest. Peace in the Middle East is crucial for the success of future generations, but it will remain a dream until the Israeli-Palestinian conflict reaches some sort of reconciliation. In order for that to be happen we must allow Palestinians an equal voice on the international stage.