Reply #67: Ireland vs. I/P [View All]

[Muddleoftheroad]

I have compared the two conflicts in the past largely because I have seen hope in the solution chosen by Michael Connelly that cost him his life. He opted for both a partial state and one that did not get all of Northern Ireland. As a result, Ireland graduated slowly into statehood, but it did get there. Unfortunately, despite my hopes, there are many differences that paint a less optimistic picture.

OK, the Irish conflict has been going on for hundreds of years as an active on again, off again conflict. Despite the general history in the Mideast, that trumps the I/P conflict by several hundred years. Such a lengthy religious conflict does not bode well for those who think I/P will end quickly (by comparison).

Next, Ireland is an island. That means only two nations are easily represented there -- Ireland and Britain. That keeps outside meddling to a minimum. Despite this, the conflict flourished. Israel has no such borders and, instead has to construct them causing further conflict. The Palestinians have numerous allies in the region -- all within easy reach of Israel both militarily and politically.

Then there is religion. Although the Protestants and Catholics have been killing each other for hundreds of years, other followers of their faiths get along pretty much everywhere else. That is sadly not the case between Islam and Judaism which seem to be at odds in many places around the globe. The I/P conflict is simply the hottest of the flashpoints.

Then we have economics. For much of its existence, Ireland has been a poor country, lacking jobs and even infrastructure. Northern Ireland has been somewhat better because of its closer affiliation to Britain, but it still has not been a garden spot. That limits the jealousy between people of one region or the other. As things have improved in one, they have actually improved in the other. Now turn to Israel which has had a thriving economy and a major high-tech corridor while the Palestinians arguably live in very poor conditions. Not exactly a recipe for people to feel equal.

So, there we have it, several reasons for the I/P conflict NOT finding an easy resolution. And, scarily enough, I have compared it to a conflict that has lasted hundreds of years, and it ends up coming out worse.