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Most of us never imagined that the Israelis would still be fighting Hamas in Gaza in October 2025. And the world has come to hate Israel. It doesn’t matter that Hamas are terrorists; it doesn’t matter that Hamas started the war; it doesn’t matter that Hamas committed the atrocities of rape and the burning of bodies; it doesn’t matter that the Hamas supporters vomit lies about the starvation of the Palestinians, attacks on civilians or accusations of genocide. What matters is that the world chooses to support terrorists and condemn Israel.
Frankly, I’m sick of it and sick at heart. Israel has little chance of resurrecting its reputation as one of the finest Western countries in the world. The ICC has blamed Israeli leaders for war crimes. Even though Hamas is “negotiating” for peace, does anyone seriously believe that they want peace? Once again, Hamas will drag out the discussions in Egypt, because it suits their ambition: not peace, but the destruction of Israel.
I wonder, too, if the 20 hostages who have been identified as alive actually are? How many could possibly have survived the abuse, starvation and atrocious conditions? And the hostage families must endure the agony and uncertainty of the status of their loved ones.
Perhaps the most discouraging aspect of this war is how readily people are prepared to favor Hamas and condemn Israel. This stance shows how easily anti-Semitism and hatred of the Jews are resurrected. I see little to reassure myself that the war will end anytime soon; Hamas is unwilling to agree to the presented expectations.
So, here I sit, in my quiet office, with the most inconvenient part of my situation being the humid heat of Florida. That hardly calls for a test of endurance.
I can only hope that G-d is on Israel’s side.
Please pray for them.
Discussion (89)
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This is unquestionably the most disconcerting realization I have had as a Jew for 78 years. It suggests very strongly that without Israel, there isn't a Jew in the entire world who is safe.
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The most shocking aspect of this situation has been the unveiling of the hateful antisemitism that is obviously so prevalent both in our country and globally. I had no idea.
How tragic and evil.
I agree with your expectation that Hamas is simply performing their typical delay, obfuscate and lie playbook. It is inherent in their culture.
I expect Hamas is not going to capitulate, not going to release hostages, not going to disarm.
When that becomes obvious, I hope Israel carries thru with the consequence President Trump promised.
There is no alternative that allows Israel, or the world to live in peace in the future.
Total defeat of all of Hamas is required.
I wish there was an alternate scenario where that would not be required. I wish for a lot of things, but the reality of Hamas' dedicated, multi-decade unyielding terrorist war on Israel proves there is no alternative.
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I am sure that is the case, but that doesn't mean the road is easy.
Absolutely. And pray for peace.
I will say that condemning Israel does not mean supporting Hamas. I think many people condemn the fighting and all those involved. People know the difference between vengeance and justice, when they see it.
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So do I, Nohaaj. But I've lost hope on that point.
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You raise an interesting point, Don. If people condemn Israel in the first place, based on the many lies that are in the media, I think they are supporting Hamas.
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