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Over the past three weeks I’ve read more nonsense about Israel and the Palestinians than ever before.

The recent fighting has conjured toe-curling credulity from many on the pro-Israel ‘side’, groundless hatred from much of the ‘other side’ and oblivious condescension among too many in the ‘middle’.

But I’ve also read some wonderful writing, including this post from Marc Goldberg. I can’t remember the last time I so enjoyed reading a piece about Israel.

I don’t agree with every syllable of Marc’s article but I love it because it’s written from the heart. I also enjoy it because its so low on defensiveness, that ugly quality that pollutes so much discussion of Israel and the Palestinians, mine included all too often.

But I noticed long ago that, broadly speaking, Israelis discuss Israel’s good and bad points much more openly and honestly than Israel supporters around the world. Marc’s writing is often emblematic of this.

As for me, I’ve spent a lovely few days showing my favourite friend from Israel around some of English towns. We had a fun day and night out in Windsor, then spent a day in beautiful Bath yesterday.

She brought me some presents from Israel, one of which was particularly meaningful. I’ll write about it later this week.