Saturday October 1, 2005

I've Been Thinking:

The United Arab Emirates is considered by the Western world to be one of the less extreme of Arab countries.
Less extreme, it seems, is a very subjective term.

Here's what I mean: Just yesterday, a hospital in the UAE decided to return $50,000 worth of medical equipment. Why? The equipment came from Israel.

Who will benefit from this medical equipment, after all, if not the citizens of the UAE. And yet, this hospital is willing to take second best, more expensive materials rather than own equipment that is, shudder, shudder, Made In Israel.

What a warped sense of priority.
Pity the people of the United Arab Emirates.
Hatred of Israel colors important decision making and skews analyses.
UAE leaders should concentrate on the future well being of their people, not dwelling on ancient issues of hatred.

Here's a little word to the unwise: No one says that you have to publicize the fact that the equipment came from Israel. Be discreet. There are other countries around the world keeping Made In Israel products a national secret.

The UAE needs to rethink priorities, tactics and the well being of its people.