Well it wasn't long before the anti Israel brigade flexed their muscles and went into hysterical overdrive. Last night the Israeli navy intercepted an aid flotilla heading towards the Gaza Strip, killing a number of those on board. Already the deaths are being described as a 'massacre' and a 'disproportionate' response to provocation. The death of 16 people (that figure is disputed) is tragic and tragically unnecessary - but then the pro Hamas activists knew this all along.

The fact is that Israel clearly informed the flotilla's organisers that they could not enter the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing blockade. They were also told that the ships could enter the Israeli port of Ashdod so that the cargoes could be searched and the aid delivered to Gaza. This despite the fact that Israel regularly delivers large consignments of humanitarian aid to Gaza, even though the government in power there is committed to the destruction of the Jewish state. Furthermore, the Palestinian activists knew their ships would be boarded if they refused to head to Ashdod or turn back.

The Israeli commandos only boarded the ships when the flotilla's organisers declared they were heading for 'Gaza'. The Israelis further say that when the commandos came on board, they came under sustained attack from protestors wielding a variety of weapons, including knives, clubs and axes. This was, in other words, a violent confrontation in the making, not just a tiny provocation. Many of the injured have been airlifted to Israeli hospitals where they are now receiving treatment.

These appear to be the most salient facts but just wait for the libels to start flying. Expect Mr Cameron and Hague to use the word 'disproportionate' at least once today. They won't be able to help themselves.