CLAY COUNTY — Israel and Palestine agreed to a cease-fire last week after weeks of fighting that led to hundreds of deaths.

Clay Today asked its readers what they think of the events which have played out in the Middle East, and it’s a hotly-debated topic here as it is elsewhere in the world.

Reader Eric Newcome laid out his thoughts with just five words:

“Hate it for both sides,” he said.

Others, though, offered more detailed explanations about their thoughts on the subject. Reader Lee Smith said she doesn’t want America to be complicit in what’s happening there.

“I’d look to [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu as an instigator: he keeps falling short of getting a parliamentary majority and calls for more elections,” Smith said. “He also is under attack for corruption, so he goes more right-wing and sets off another spark in the Gaza tinderbox. It is a classic fight over land and Israel will eventually destroy the Palestinians. I just don’t want America to be complicit in the destruction.”

Lorraine Boyett, on the other hand, said they believe “America needs to be behind Israel 100%.” Many others expressed a similar line of thinking as Boyett, going so far as to say it’s Palestine that’s at fault.

“Palestine-elected Hamas – terrorists – who attacked Israel out of greed,” Janet Brooks said. “Biden was out of line telling Israel to back off, and the squad are traitors to this country under any circumstances and should not be listened to. Israel is our ally, and they deserve our help.”

Barbara Evans said Israel has a “right to defend itself and should.” They said they stand with Israel. Marsha Willougby echoed a similar thought and said she wouldn’t call what’s happening there a “conflict” because it’s a matter “of one trying to annihilate the other.”

“Well technically, the U.S. caused most of this issue after World War II,” Karen Fey said. “Not sure if we help or hinder with continued involvement. Weapon supplying doesn’t help. Probably better leaving it to NATO.”

Jeff McKeown said he stands with Israel.

“If a terrorist-sponsored entity bombs them, they have a duty to fight back,” McKeown said. “How would we like it if Hamas bombed Jacksonville and our leaders did nothing in retaliation?”

What do you think about this topic? Be sure to let us know by responding to last week’s Facebook Question of the Week and be sure to follow the official Clay Today Newspaper Facebook page so that you don’t miss this week’s Facebook Question of the Week.