This has been a great semester for learning about something cultural. This past summer when I was in Israel I learned that the refugees were a problem in Southern Tel Aviv. I walked through Levinksky Park and I saw people sleeping on benches, I saw some stores closed with signs stating that the business was illegal. I also talked with some of the asylum seekers and heard their stories. Listening to their stories made me want to learn more about the situation. I mentioned the problem and what I learned about it to a friend in Israel and he had a totally different viewpoint on the situation. He identified with the Israelis who state that if they give them refugee status then they will settle in Israel and it will be a drain on the resources. I found his viewpoint very narrow minded at first, but because I respect him, I decided that I would look into the situation myself and read up on what was happening.
Having now been informed on the situation, I believe that both sides have very valid points. It is true that Israel has a limited amount of resources and giving refugee status would drain the resources tremendously. However, if the asylum seekers are given refugee status then Israel can send them to other countries. Nonetheless, the other countries have to be willing to take in those refugees and every time Israel has tried to send them to Germany, Spain, Italy or any other country they have been denied. The US has not offered to take in the refugees when asked. I find this very sad. It's tragic that we do not help our fellow human. I understand both sides of the story, I just wish that things were better and other countries would open their arms to the refugees. History always repeats itself, refugees have never been welcome to any country, there has always been discrimination against refugees.
However there is hope, the story about how Israel is sending aid to Jordan to help the Syrian refugees warmed my heart and showed me that there is some hope. Israel is playing the political game, but staying morally right by helping those in need.
By knowing this information about the culture of Israel, it enlightens me to know about another political situation that is not often heard of. It is another source of tension. I always believe it is best to be aware of all of the tension spots so you can avoid them.
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