I will confess that although I read a lot of news articles, I don't consider myself well-informed on many issues.  One such issue is Western relations with the Middle East.  I know basic things, but I lack knowledge on complexities.  Recently, another Iranian nuclear scientist was assassinated in Tehran and Iran is blaming Israel and the U.S.  I know the United States is never completely innocent in any matter, but I feel that Israel is directly involved since they have vehemently expressed no sympathy.  Iran directly threatens Israel, so I understand why Israel would be hateful.  I also understand why the Israeli state needs to exist.  However, the crimes against humanity that keep being committed are atrocious.  I don't care how awful a person is, assassination is sneaky and leaves no opportunity for justice.
     While reading a few articles on this recent assassination, I came across Time's "60 Years of Israel" photo essay.  It shows people immigrating to Israel, violent conflict, and reconciliation between enemies.  A photographer has a lot of power when they capture an image and these images say a lot about cultures in constant struggle.  I think it is impossible to find a single solution to the violence between Western and Middle Eastern countries, but a great improvement could be an end to covert action and increased communication (lead official egos aside).

http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1730968_1564855,00.html
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2104372,00.html

A Jordanian soldier handing a cup of tea to an Israeli soldier.  A break in fighting.

The hand of an Egyptian soldier.  The Six Day War.