It's the words ... "Right to Exist" is not an acceptable phrase.

Submitted by Sofa Sogood (United States), Dec 8, 2007 at 22:42

It's the words ... "Right to Exist" ...

I don't recall ever hearing this phrase used regarding any other nation -- whether in fact their existence was threatened or not. Certainly it was not demanded that Saddam recognize Kuwait's "Right to Exist."

Use of this phrase is demeaning and reflects onto the citizens themselves. It's too reminiscent of Shylock's pathetic pleading to be considered human -- "If you cut us do we not bleed?"

Nations exist or they don't. People exist or they don't. Those are facts not "rights," recognizable, acceptable or debatable. There is no need for the word "right" regarding "existence."

Recognition is the usual term. Palestinians must "recognize" the Nation of Israel -- as a Jewish State. Palestinians must "Accept" Israel as a Jewish State. Almost any other way of expressing the meaning of this would be ok.

"Right to Exist" is more than insulting.

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