I’M LOSING MY BEST FRIEND BECAUSE OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN GAZA!

The war in Gaza may be a long way away but it has affected my life in a very real way because my best friend and I find ourselves on opposite sides of this awful war.

I’m horrified by what the Israelis are doing to the Palestinian people in Gaza, but she is firmly on the side of the Israelis and believes they have the right to defend themselves.

We recently got into a serious argument about this and are now not on speaking terms. The problem is I love my friend and don’t want to lose our long-time bond.

But at the same time, our views won’t change. What can I do?

Troubled, email

Like in any war, there are pros and cons on both sides depending on the perspective of the viewer. Media reporting is also slanted from the perspective of the reporter.

Only the senior people involved in the war on both sides know the real truths of what is happening and the ramifications of this for their countries.

Like any war it’s the normal people (children, women and the elderly) who are suffering now, as there’s a dire famine crisis in Gaza. That illustrates the fallouts of war, no matter what side thinks they’re legitimate in what they’re doing.

You and your friend should rather focus on your friendship and the bond you have. Leave world politics to the people who are involved in this war.

Just like there are many opinions of what’s happening in South Africa, it’s the people who live here who feel the brunt of the decisions made by those in power.

In any friendship there comes a time and place where you’re going to have to agree to disagree on something. Explain to your friend that both of you have different opinions and that this is one of those instances where you should rather agree to disagree.

Don’t discuss this matter until one of you gives way to the other, otherwise you will forfeit your friendship.