" most israelis are too hurt, defensive and insecure to handle any
criticism which would challenge the legitimacy of their celebrations"

No, actually.  We hear your criticism-- it's loud and clear.  We simply acknowledge that our legitimacy as a nation has no more reason to be challenged than any other nation.  Where are you, the United States? I know that we all have short-term memories, but do you remember learning about how the US was established? Blood, inflicting illness upon Native Americans, etc?  You seem awfully comfortable being where you are, now, and unjustifiably challenging the independence of a state that was established in accordance with "international law" (if you believe in its existence). 

As for us making concessions-- I actually recall doing that... yes...vaguely...something in the summer of 2005? Ah, yes, disengagement! We gave them land!  What happened? Gaza became  Hamasistan, and not only are they killing each other in internal conflicts, but they're also making life unlivable for Israelis that live anywhere near Gaza and within the range of Kassam and Ketushya rockets.  As an established, independent state, the rational people in this country are happy to lead negotiations and take a leadership role in the process.  Problem is, we have no one to negotiate with.  There is not a cohesive, Palestinian people that are serious about establishing their own state that can live in harmony next to the State of Israel.  The majority (not all) want an independent state in ALL of this land and they won't stop shooting rockets or blowing up civilians until Israel no longer exists. As a legitimately established state, we can't accept that.

Today is independence day, and we will celebrate. We will celebrate 60 years, yes.  We will face our problems with courage and lamentations alike, and those of us that do indeed support a two-state solution to the current crisis will pray that the rockets stop flying and the attempted/actual suicide bombings stop occurring, so that the Israeli Air Force can stop destroying terrorist cells and the IDF can stop restricting the movement of Palestinians. We will pray that they accept our legitimate right to a state, as we accept theirs.  Then, and only then, will there be negotiations.  Don't hold your breath, though.

 In the meantime, Happy Birthday, Israel.  You've come a long way, and your ideological opposition is weak.

Cori C

http://cori-c.blogspot.com

coriac@gmail.com