The article reflects on the ongoing global conflicts and the sense of normalization around violence, particularly noting Gaza's dire situation. Simon Tisdall questions why this carnage is often tolerated, attributing it to a widespread world weariness felt by Western governments. Sheila Hancock's piece on VE Day emphasizes the fading legacy of the Second World War and the irony of remembering a victory over fascism while contemporary nationalism rises. There is a call for stronger accountability from governments, alongside a reflection on the dangers of forgetfulness regarding past sacrifices in the fight against tyranny.
It is especially relevant to Gaza, which is in an extremely parlous state, yet the silence on its almost complete annihilation is thunderous.
As Tisdall writes, people feel powerless to change any of it, but I cannot help but observe that governments calling bad actors to account more publicly might have some effect.
The irony in Britain in May 2025 is that the victory over that far-right ideology is being commemorated in a hail of flags and poppies by a population that just a week ago voted convincingly for a nationalist party.
The greatest vice of all is forgetfulness.
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