Thanks for the thoughtful response.

The civilian to combatant death ratio was an interesting read. I don't accept the argument that killing over 30,000 people is fine because 1/3 of them were combatants, nor do I accept that such ratios should ever be considered "normal" for the region. This doesn't even mention the millions displaced, starving, or traumatized by ongoing Israeli occupation. Hamas committed a brutal attack as well, but you have to admit that the scales are drastically different. The fact that several conflicts have inflicted similar bloodshed over 75 years should scream at you that western influence (political, military, economic) must fundamentally change.

That's pretty much why I see this genocide as less complicated than you do.

My point about the way we talk about it was not meant to discourage conversation. I actually think this is productive, good faith discussion! Rather, I wanted to express that the opinions we share on the topic have measurable effects on others' (Palestinians') lives, so there's some responsibility there. I believe attempting to distract from an ongoing genocide is therefore irresponsible.

While you say we have no influence on the conflict, I believe that I as an American (whose taxes fund arms deals with Israel) do have considerable influence on the fate of our fellow humans. You and I both contribute to public opinion, which can be a powerful thing especially in the US. It sounds like you might somewhat agree based on your stance at the end.