One of the characteristics of bullies is that while they are utterly disrespectful of the needs, wishes and feelings of other people, and utterly lacking in empathy, they are at the same time exceptionally thin-skinned and very touchy when faced with any hint of criticism.

One might be forgiven for feeling a strong sense of deja vu as, once again, we are forced to question the rationale for the latest round of hostilities between Israelis and Palestinians in Gaza, with Islamic Jihad this time Israel’s specific opponent.