Purim’s Counterintuitive Strategy for Confronting Modern Antisemitism
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I am not religious, I never publicly display my love for Judaism or Israel. But something is awakening inside of me.
I have always been a quiet American Jew. I am not religious. I am not kosher. My children do not go to a Jewish day school, and I do not go to synagogue on most Shabbats. Instead, I quietly celebrate the high holidays, quietly respond “thank you” when a stranger wishes me a Merry Christmas at Hanukah time, quietly pray to God when I am really desperate and quietly thank God for all of the blessings in my life.
I quietly try to instill a love of Judaism in my children, while quietly hoping that they will gain this love without putting in much effort. And certainly, I never publicly declare or display my love of Judaism or Israel, because, after all, I am just a quiet American Jew.
So why is a quiet American Jew so deeply affected by the atrocities in Israel? Why is the pain of a quiet American Jew so deep? Am I even entitled to feel so heartbroken or to express my anger and frustration when I am just a quiet American Jew?
Something has awakened inside of me. A profound love and connection to my people, to my brothers and sisters in Israel.
I don’t know that I can articulate the answers to these questions, as the answers are deeply rooted in the fabric of every Jew. Of course, as a human being, the horrors committed upon the Jewish people should elicit heartbreak and outrage in any decent person. Surely, if a quiet American Jew can recognize this, everyone should, right?
But, more than outrage and heartbreak from one human being to another, there is something else happening to this quiet American Jew, something so much more. Something has awakened inside of me. A profound love and connection to my people, to my brothers and sisters in Israel, and to the generations who came before me. The knowledge that antisemitism lives in the loud actions of our enemies, but also in the quiet silence of some neighbors and friends.
A deep connection to a strong community coming together in unity, both Jews and non-Jews alike, as my feelings of loneliness turn to solidarity. A bravery and resilience of my people that I had only read about and heard stories of, but now have the honor of witnessing firsthand.
And most importantly, I have awakened to the realization that I no longer have the luxury of being a quiet American Jew.
None of us do.
In 1915 my grandfather changed his name in Newark nj from Braunstein to Brown because rocks were being thrown into his store windows.
The winds of antisemitism were blowing and he knew it.
Just as this American Jew feels them and understands what happened in Germany could happen here in America.
This has most likely awakened him
New Yorkers of Jewish ancestry that voted for the antisemitic Mamdani are helping to build the tracks to the next Aushwitz! Are they insane?
Amen!
God bless Jesus and Jewish friends and remember that 9 11 was CIA illuminati agents who planted the explosives in the twin bugaloos ten4 towers ten4 🤪 ✝️ 🐕🦺 ✝️
No one should be quiet in the face of antisemitism. It affects all our families, friends and neighbors and all American should not put up with it.
As a Christian supporter of Israel and it's people - I believe this is G_d at work in your life-calling you "home". It brings tears of joy to my heart, and tears of hurt because I know the cost. I stand by you and with you. May you embrace it and be blessed wherever this journey takes you.
Quiet or ENOUGH!
No one has the right to exterminate Jews.
Jews don't start wars. But we have the right to defend ourselves.
No one has the right to exterminate ANYONE! EVERYONE has a right to defend themselves!
NO ONE has the right to 'defend' themselves at the expense of innocent civilians, CHILDREN.
Hmmmm... I don't see you or your ilk protesting the Iranian children getting killed, or the Sudanese children getting killed. I guess it's only relevant when it's the jews who do the "killing"
Go learn the history of war and come back when you actually get educated
Some argue that the infiltration and safeguarding of high positions in a country is equivalent to starting a different type of war and conquest. I can see where they are coming from, even if Jews are almost always anti-violence.
This is not the worse. Today's American Jew is the Bernie Sanders type, a self hating non-Israel supporting Jew who honeymooned in the Soviet Union. I recently watched the movie "A ship of Fools". Quite appropriate! How else to explain a Mamdani, a Communist who calls to globalize the intifada in a city with the number of Jews second only to Israel.
You will not find many, if any, self-hating Jews amongst the Ultra Orthodox Community in this country.
The "Bernie Sanders type". You do realize that this stereotype is antisemitic! Irony.
I came to the US from another country, and being a Jew in here is daunting because other Jews make it so by asking before they know your name on what section of Judaism are you? On the years I have lived here I have seen many of those quiet Jews like the author of this article, it pains me how separated they are from the Jewish people by joiing d a section of Judaism that changed Halacha almost completely! There are now huge problems in Israel, but those in this section never wake up because Israel has an Orthodox Rabbinate and they can't stand that ! Being a Jew means more than feeling kinship, since we were created to act as Jews: Yes, Kosher, Shabbat, and the rest are part and parcel of identifying as Jews.
.....national Boards, mostly fund raising for our Israeli Universities, Mogen David Adom, The Jewish National Fund...and on and on. Locally my wife and I became officers and Directors of our local Civic Groups; the Rotary club, the Library Board, Hospital Board, several Public Company Boards, etc. Those soliciting us and appointing/electing us knew we were public Jews, and deeply involved with the Jewish Community. I always took the opportunity at meeting to toss in a little Yiddish saying or joke, to teach my Gentile colleagues a few words or sayings. At 85 years old now, I still do! It is a privilege to be Jewish and I can tell Christians why. AND why G-d created Christianity to more widely spread our ethical, moral, and legal thinking to the world.
...that night to join his unit already deployed in the Sinai. Hundreds (maybe more) such Reservists in the US did the same. Israel sent special planes to collect them in several American cities. (We celebrated a fantastic military victory...at least for that moment.)
How do Jews celebrate these victories in modern times?
"We fought them, WE WON!......Let's eat!
I went on to a successful industrial career, taking over the ownership of that company, expanded to 8 plants (from Toronto to Mississippi). Became a sub-contractor to a Kibbutz, to provide industrial tooling for them to make certain parts of the IDF, my eldest daughter spent 4 years at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. My wife and I became active, and sponsors for several local, state and national Boards,...to be con....
I hope that you didn't injure your shoulder while patting yourself on your back. Talk about self-serving m.
.......continues from below.....Preemptive strike destroying Egypt's Air Force, even before the Egyptian pilots woke up for breakfast.
That was my epiphany moment! That's when I was wanting to run down the street, yelling, "those are MY people!" I am one of them too! From there I became a Loud Public Jew! I was the COO of a small manufacturing company in a small, hardly noticeable small town in Eastern Connecticut (Closer to Providence than to Hartford) We joined a nearby Conservative synagogue, contributed to the UJA committee there to... My wife's cousin was touring the US, giving speeches at various Nuclear Technical Conferences...(then in Texas)...He immediately made contact with his IDF Reserve Unit, and flew back to Israel that night,.... to be continued....
Why did this come to you so late? I was 27 years old, just out of the Harvard Business School with my MBA, where I tried to just blend in with guys. (In 1964, there were only 3 women in our Class and perhaps a couple of dozen foreigners, English, Canada, Australia, France, a Filipino, a Tribal leader from Nigeria, and a Jew from Morocco (and Michael Bloomberg). Though a Quiet American Jew, my wife had a first cousin in Israel working on the Dimona Project (Nuclear Reactor) and he was the talk of the family.
So I was following the events in June 1967, Gamal Abdul Nasser blockading the Red Sea Port of Eilat, massing tanks in the Sinai, ,,,,,leading up to the Israeli massive, unsuspected, preemptive airstrike, on June 7th. TO BE CONTINUED....
G-d bless you, Heather. As a Christian supporter of Israel and its people, I am appalled by the rising tide of antisemitism around the world, but especially in the U.S. May Adonai watch over you and keep you and your family from all harm.
Hamas, Hezbollah and other similar groups.
How do you feel now, 19 months later?
Well put
I was De jewed or not acknowledged to be Jewish even though I have ancestors that were murdered by the Third Reich because they were Jews. The problem? My mother's mother's mother was not Jewish though she married a Jew and raised all her children as Jews. The Jews need to change their qualifications as to who is a Jew, they cannot afford to kick people like me out of their religion and expect to be supported by people like me.
Jewish law determines who is a Jew. If you were born from a Jewish woman you are automatically Jewish. If you converted to Judaism via an Orthodox Jewish conversion you are accepted as legitimately Jewish.
For a few thousand years, Jews lived under a clear set of basic laws that set forth who was a Jew. Those rules have not changed. The best way for you to resolve the issues that matter to you is to consult with an Orthodox Rabbi.
We need to change the core of the entire religion, in order to facilitate your personal requirements. Its just not how it goes.
Find a Torah True Rabbi and discuss possible solutions. Changing the law isn't one of them.
During WW2 the Nazis decided who was Jewish. In order to exterminate them. It was horrible and surely continues. Only your Rabbi can offer answers as to how this affects your situation.
Try Reformed Judiasim. I believe they are far more liberal than Torah Judiasim. Might work for you.
Odd. I have known and worked with Jews my entire adult life and quiet with their opinions, particularly on Israel
I am not a Jew, nor is Douglas Murray whose book On Democracies and Death Cults I am currently listening to. Subject, Oct. 7 and all the aftermath....including the inexplicable indifference, and denial people have had in response. Let alone the shit that started on our college campuses. On the analysis of why the Jews have been hated over the years. ..it is a projection of what is wrong with our societies; scape goating. It is a shape shifter of human weakness, envy, prejudice and blame. Tell me what the Jews are guilty of, and I will show you what is going on in your society. God forbid we take an honest look at ourselves.
it seems to me israel and palestine both deserve each other
To what do you base your opinion. Is your being Jewish just an accident of birth?
You have opinions.
This is Jewish Law.
Do whatever you want. Enjoy your life
You are in no position to ask the foolish question
What are you talking about? I know where Israel is, been there a few times. Never visited "Palestine" dont know where it is. I know there are a bunch of Arabs calling themselves Palestinians.
Israelis and Muslims deserve each other? A shandeh!!!
Thanks buddy. If there were just more of you. Have hope. I do.
"People Love Dead Jews" by Dara Horn.
Just came across this today. I'm an atheist reconstructionist Jew who had a bat mitzvah in the late 80s and was in BBYO during high school. I loved growing up Jewish and when people ask what i am now i say I'm an atheist Jew. I have been so far removed from Judaism for much of the past 10 years though i do celebrate some stuff with my family. But after 10/7, seeing all the antisemitism and the virulent Jew hatred in the protest movements, especially those at the universities, I have never felt more Jewish than I did after my Bat Mitzvah when I wanted to attend shabbat forever (that lasted one month of shabbat services, hey, i was 12). Anyway, now more than ever, American Jews need to band together and support our own.
Yes, absolutely!
Jews need to stand up and be counted and not shrink from our identity.
Absolutely right!
Yes, we owe it to ourselves, our families, our forefathers and mothers, the 6 million who perished in World War II, those that were brutally murdered by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, and the worldwide Jewish community.
A pearl of wisdom
This identity is not yours to claim! How could Jews left dark skin & returned light skin. Did they went thru a PHYSICAL EVOLUTION which made them switch from dark to light skin , or they are simply not the real Jews!! Even the state of Israel was created with the declaration of Balfour since 1947/48 for the Rothschild Family. Don't you know that historical event? Look carefully and your will find your real identity & the location of the REAL ANCIENT ISRAEL . TRUST ME, IS NOT FAR. THE NAME WAS CHANGED BY ANOTHER ONE JUST TO HIDE IT.
Inspiration varies throughout life, so while it is strong grow in Torah knowledge and observance by choosing a topic you are interested in and pursuing it. Inspiration is the energy to grow your connection to the Jewish people, by discovering who you are and adopting the ways that connect us all as Jews. If you do not use the energy it dissipates over time. The inspiration is one of the greatest gifts a Jew can have, converting the energy is the key to connect with the Jewish people and our tradition.
Mazel tov on waking up to the reality of anti-Jewish/Israel hatred! To run from this reality is to give victory to bigotry, self-hatred, and turmoil in our time. Who needs that! Am Yisrael Chai v'Kayam! Good to let go of codependency on hostile powers who "love dead Jews". Let 'em love our light unto the nations, not the terrorist states who insanely control the fate of our hostages! Am Yisrael chaiǰ̣
Well said. Soldier on!
Thank you.
Is it time to flee?
Never. Passive Yidden are a major problem.
Elizabeth, we are the New Jews...We dont flee anymore.
A thinking person cannot afford to be quiet. The Jewish community may have a lot to say about the pending Trump mass deportations. The French movie "The Round-up" ("La Rafle") with Jean Reno comes to mind. The Vichy Government and the Paris police cooperated with the Nazis in a shameful massive round-up.
Trump wants to "round up" violent criminals, like the one who killed Laken Riley. So do I. There will be no mass deportations of people who are minding their business.
I don't understand how people don't get this!!! Do you all wish to have the illegal criminals everywhere??!! Thousands of Americans have been tortured and killed by them! Even an illegal who can't read English, but got a license (wonder how that happened....) killed people in a car accident!!
Are you all ok with that?! Laken Riley had her head crushed like it was an egg!! She wasn't your daughter or wife, James, so it's ok??!!
Trump has more to support Jews in both here and in Israel than any other POTUS. The illegal aliens that are here need to be dealt with pursuant to federal law. Biden allowed tens of thousands foreign criminals into the USA. He has offered to pay many illegal immigrants without established criminal records to be flown home with the chance to apply to legally immigrate to the USA in the future.
Sad times!! the world is unaccepting. Anti-sematism is rampant. It is sad that my wife and I
have a daughter in NYC who is concerned about wearing her star of David in Public.
Our current politics is reinforcing this non accepting atmosphere. Sad hopefully this will change
TERRible times - for everyone, of-and-not-of the tribe. Fear attracts danger, not jewelry. We proudly wear our Stars of David, Hamsas etal. Better to know the real world than to imagine it. Still, keep your friends close and your enemies .. well, you know the rest
How to be a Jewish New Yorker? Stand tall, stay smart, keep that third eye open, know where all the restrooms, shuls and nypd are, have a safety plan, stay in your lane, keep a whistle or an alarm and have a good time. We'd gladly walk with her any time, anywhere. Unfortunately, here we are anonymous - but we ARE here !
Chazat v'Ematz B"H !
Well said. In 1962, I graduated high-school and immediately enlisted in the US Army. The best "life", education that I ever had. I learned how to fight to be respected as a Jew. I only mention this because passive Yidden make it too easy for the Jew haters. I kept that attitude when I went to college after I was released from active duty in 1965. I mention all of this because every Yid has to stand up in the own way against the haters. Remember that the only fair fight is the fight that you win.
Carry pepper spray, as well.
Unfortunately, not with Mamdani becoming mayor....she will have to leave NYC, as he, his wife and his parents hate Jews! I spoke with a Jewish women from the UK. They let in so many Arabs, Islamists into that country. I told her our synagogues have police in front for every Shabbat and Holiday service, as well as for the nursery schools during the day. She said the synagogues in the UK were doing that for the past 20 years! This will be our fate, as Obama started bringing them in during his terms, and Kamala continued that in secret, bringing palestinians here to go to college - for free. Of course they won't go back to where they came from. They will settle here, as Obama's muslims got settled in Minnesota and Michigan - states with large populations and a lot of delegates.
It is necessary to kill the members of Hamas and Hezbollah, but also to pray and grieve for their young children as we do for our own. I think that all war crimes must be investigated but that world bodies such as the UN and Amnesty International must be scrupulous in documenting each bit of evidence with the knowledge that it could be either Israeli military or terrorist organizations that are at fault for any given atrocity. The world often calls for the Israeli government to be prosecuted for alleged war crimes. I don't have a problem with that as long as it's understood that terrorists should also be prosecuted. Byt since they don't give themselves up our only option is to kill them - for the sole reason that they will go in killing ANYONE in their path:
Know and understand that the UN hS never treated Israel fairly. Moreover, The International Court in the Hague has no jurisdiction over both Israel and the USA.
We’re not a race, we’re a religion. I wish other Jews would stop referring to or speaking as if we are a race. It’s disingenuous and gaslighting. Also, it’s weak and pathetic when we deny reality. Us Jews do in fact run this mofo world. We’re in most if not all leadership positions in entertainment, journalism, broadcasting (sports broadcasting, radio, news), tech, ownership in the NFL, MLB, NHL, social media et. al. I’m tired of denying the fact that we are great at what we do. Let them point it out; let them speak truth. I embrace it, it’s not antisemitism when it’s fact. I don’t hide our greatness.
We are an ancient People with everything that comes from that. Look at the Dead Sea Scrolls and then look at the DNA. Yes, we have culture and tradition, but we also just are Jewish. You don't stop being Jewish if you aren't religious and it's extremely hard to convert in. Its more like applying to citizenship than anything else.
We are .5% of the population. The idea we run the world is absurd, but yes, Jewish people are smart, educated, hardworking badasses and we have a lot of accomplished people in our ranks.
We do run the world, unfortunate but true.
Not in the way the tropes say, but subtly. We have inordinate amount of influence on the world and its affairs.
People think we run the world due to our contributions to nearly every field. Does G-d see us as we see ourselves? Or much larger?
Right. China runs the world. There are no Jews in China. Case Closed.
Hyperbole.
Arrogance is not a healthy fit for Jews.
.18%.
We are also a RACE. If you are born as a Jew and do a DNA test, it literally pins you to Israel. As others have stated being Jewish is culture, traditions, religion and an ancient DNA links us to the land of Israel. Please do a DNA test. Being Jewish is not like being Christian. If you stop being a Christian, you are no longer a Christian. If you are a Jew and do not practice any traditions or religion you are still a Jew. Please get the facts of our people. Running the world? There are about 13-14 Million Jews in a world of 8 BILLION! Yes, we have success in America and a few other counties. However, the world is a big place and in many counties we cannot even own land, how do we control the world. You have been made to believe the lies.
thank you Tzipporah Starkman for setting the record straight as to what we
it's time we knew more about who and what we are The word 'Ivrei maens
the other side as G-d said to Abraham,we are on one side everyone else on the other just look today
Given that white Christian men still control most power in the private and public sector in the West, i think it's laughable people keep using this tired old trope.
A plus is that in varied areas, the amount of relative influence that Jews have had, exceeds our percentage of population.
We are intersectional with many races due to our dispersions from oppression. There is no Hebrew word for the concept of race.
We're not just a religion. We are civilization. Just like the Nazis, the current terrorist states are afraid of civilization: the 10 Commandments, principles of law, justice, protection of the vulnerable, the blessings of Torah, 3 Abrahamic faiths that we bring to the world. If you love to kill, hate, destroy, you don't want civilization: You fear it, its spiritual power you have no control over. Just like any primitive, the lack of power is your dilemma. Even when you rule like Hitler, it is never enough. All spiritually impoverished governments are doomed to extinction. Why? They make themselves gods. Who are they kidding? Bottom line: Terrorists who are tyrants: You are dust. The Creator of us all is in charge, & you are NOT.
In the United States the Jews have great influance. However we do not run the world. Example, CHINA is certainly one of the countries that run the world. There are no Jews in CHINA, come on get a clue.
We are indeed a race connected by DNA, culture, tradition, and yes, our religion. We live in a country where a president is pursuing a Christian Nationalist agenda and no matter how much conservative Jews want to believe it, we do not have a seat at that table.
More importantly, the belief that Jews aren't white is literally at the root of white supremacy and therefore race is wholly relevant when discussing protection of Jews.
Ah yes, the self hating Liberal-Progressive Yid speaks up. Dumping on the only POTUS in US history who has helped Israel and in real time, US Jews is beyond your self control. The majority of the Democratic party has deserted Yidden.
Well said. Know and understand that it's a fools errand to expect recognition from the rest of the world.
"Am I even entitled to feel so heartbroken or to express my anger and frustration when I am just a quiet American Jew?'
Yes, of course!
When the news was reported; it hurt, it hurt badly. The mind reeling at the comprehension. What happens to one, happens to all.
You obviously know and understand that being the quiet passive Jew is a major problem. Even at a miniscule pace, stand up and be counted. Once you start, you will slowly blossom. Soldier!
Typo: Soldier on!
MathProf66. The last person we need to hear from is a professor. No respect for them. They are brainwashing our children. All Jews should wise up and stop voting Democrat. Stop sitting on the sidelines by being a "Quiet Jew". Only 11% of our community is involved in synagogue life. Sanders, Blumenthal, Schumer, Nadler and that despicable Schiff are all terrible people who hate our community. I wish there were more Lieberman's out there.
Perhaps not having respect for people who don't think like you do is at the root of the problem.
Perhaps not being respected is a good reason to become a "quiet Jew". Perhaps not being respected is a reason not to be involved in a synagogue.
Perhaps casting hate on Jewish public figures who give service to their communities and to their country only makes matters worse for Jews.
I wish there were fewer of you out there.
"Perhaps casting hate on Jewish public figures who give service to their communities and to their country only makes matters worse for Jews."
What Utter bull. People pursue positions in the halls of govt to fulfill their lust for power & perhaps, yes, financial considerations as well. The bull about devoted servants, dedicated to community, blahblahblah may have once had cachet - those days are long gone.
If you like their policies then praise them on that score not on the basis of some pie-in-the-sky tripe about respect for public officials -- a claim that is actually totally disingenuous in most who make it- who have plenty of hate for politicians ***they*** believe are harming the country!
As far as the 2 specific characters mentioned - they are BOTTOM DWELLERS imho
It makes me sad to read this. The attitude is so contrary to what I learned growing up Jewish. Either you never got a Jewish education or you've forgotten everything you learned. What would your parents say to you if they read this?
You are living in a dark place. I hope you grow out of it and make your parents proud.
It makes me very sad to read that as well. Don't get on twitter lol. The Trump supporting Jews on there sound just as crazy as this. They've been demonizing liberal Jews for 2 yrs now. They really can't see the GOP for who it is which I find wild because, hey, I though we were smart and such critical thinkers.
Trump supporting Jews ARE the critical thinkers! Liberal Jews are the sheep.
Nonsense
You are an oasis in this desert of passive negativity. A breath of fresh air. Soldier on!
A good example of being part of the problem.
AGREE100 percent. Just look at the direction that Alan Dershowitz is taking. He knows. Our family knows. Others should study the issues going on now. IYKYK
You are so right but most of the liberal Jews are still voting Democrat. They just don't get it that Biden and Harris are still funding Iran which the money goes to all the terrorists.
Well said. A breath of fresh air.
I agree 100% with David Beyer. I'm very conservative and MAGA. I'm just so tired of Democrat phoney liberals! Trump loves Israel, the Jewish people and he has Jewish grandchildren. Enough lies about him!
Truth. Soldier on!
Another group we've rejected, in large part because of the Chinese Virus, is the "experts." People hear 'expert' now and tune out.
With good reason.
I miss Lieberman. He was the only one who had integrity. He was the best.
Well said.
Outstanding!
Perfectly said!! If you vote democratic, then you don't care about Israel! The democrats are against Israel - just look at how Biden held back weapons from Israel! He did NOTHING about getting any hostages out!! Neither him nor his puppeteers did anything to help. Without Trump....I don't even want to think about what would happen to Israel....you can vote democratic someday - vote Republican to support Israel right now! The democratic party is not the party that it used to be....it's about the democrats having power and money, with their fake agencies that siphoned off billions of our tax dollars into their pockets.
Quiet time is over! Never again. Support Israel anyway you can -- that goes for all who care about a civilized world.
now is the time to strengthen our unity, all Jews, of all walks of life. Why the high court is 'kicking the beehive' is beyond me. now is not a good time for this....
I have always loved Israel and the Jewish people, both in Israel and here in the United States....Since October, I have become even more supportive and almost feel like one of them being discriminated against...When they say anything critical against a Jew, I go into protective mode....We are them and they are us.... Let's not allow unkindness towards them in anyway..
YES!!! I feel the exact same way!! We do not have the luxury to be quiet anymore. Thank you for this beautiful article.
^^^Well, that's another one of the typical, stupid Jew h8ting memes going around lately.
Same ol', same ol'
Ugh!
🤮
Be specific. No innuendo.
Every religion is designed to control. You don't need a structured clown show to have Faith clowns.
Take all your religions and criminal governments and jam them where the sun don't shine.
To believe anything got near that fence unseen let alone cut through it is like saying Joe Biden is awake. By the way any clowns out there the cohanim instructs you to sit down and shut up.
Unbelievable. This is precisely the type of comment that is awakening everyone around. Judaism is more than just a religion. We all have DNA that tells the world we are Jews and this DNA does have direct links to the Levant no matter what our skin color looks like.
DAC, you are ignorant. There were a lot of quiet Jews who suffered in Nazi Germany. Heck, there were Jews whose parents converted to Christianity but they suffered in Nazi Germany, as well.
DAC, you are seriously part of the problem. How in the world did you land on this website so you could write your hateful comment?
Really. I am a Jew . You were there. My Uncle was and my Grandparents were. Wake up. The British hated Germany Winston Churchill in 1933 states the Bankers Rothschild were not getting their 20%. You believe Nonsense. Lies brainwashing. Wake up. The US is a Corporation Owned by the IMF
Ok chomsky-finkelstein worshipper. Getta grip. All those people shouting Hamas are freedom fighters, river to the sea, Zionists are racists, the star of David belongs in the trash (that one's curious, no?)--on college campuses and major cities all over the West--they don't care if you're an observant Jew, a secular Jew, or anything in between. If you identify in any way as 'Jew' (bc 'Jew' can mean you have a connection to one or all of the following: a people, a history, a faith, an ethnicity, or the land) they will get you to cower to their position or else. And if you don't agree to their demand, that Israel has no legitimacy, expect violence.That's the reason Israel needs to exist. Bc Jews of all kinds are done tolerating the m of their landlord countries, to paraphrase Herbert Pagani.
*The moods of their landlord countries ...
Herbert Pagani, 1975, "A plea for my land'"
"We are similar to welfare children. I don’t want to be adopted any more. I don’t want my life to depend on my owners’ moods any more. I don’t want to be a ‘rented citizen’ any longer. I’ve had enough of knocking at "History’s doors and of waiting until I’m told: ‘Come in!"
This is WONDERFUL! To never feel at home is an awful feeling. We have one tiny country and G-d willing, we will keep it.
Well said. This Yid has been fighting Jew haters since I was 17 years old in the US Army right out of high school in 1962. The Jew haters only respect us when we fight back. The only fair fight is the fight that you win.
And you do know Zionism began as a secular movement, right? I'm sure you're aware 50% of Israelis consider themselves secular, right? Do you also know that Israel does not have a "white" majority? 55-60% of Jews descend from parents and grandparents who fled countries all over the middle East and North Africa after 1948. Because they HAD NO WHERE ELSE TO GO. Then there are the 21% of Israeli Arab Muslims, Druze, Bedouin, and Christian citizens living their best life in Israel bc they're free to self-actualize in a democracy unlike the Muslim totalitarian countries they're surrounded by. i.e. Israel is not a theocracy. It provides safe haven and self defense of the Jewish people against persecution. Jews stand up straight in Israel and don't cower. That's its reason for being.
Add to that, the black Ethiopian Jews that Israel rescued from Africa from being prosecuted there.
Nonsense
Maybe your comments are not pleasant, either?
The first part you are flat out wrong. Genetic studies have shown that there are identifiable genetic links among our Jewish populations, particularly among Ashkenazi Jews,
But this is only indicative a shared ancestry which distinguishing from other populations. It's important to note that our Jewish identity is primarily cultural and religious, not solely based on genetics; meaning genetic markers alone cannot definitively determine someone as Jewish. To put it bluntly, being Jewish doesn’t not mean we are a race of people, ethno-religious maybe, no different that Muslims or Christians, we are not not a race. -Sincerely, a Geneticist
Daniel. Muslims or Islam is a faith of over 1 billion people. They are not all from the Middle East. They are NOT a race of people. However, many people of Jewish ancestors whether European, from Middle Eastern countries, Africa, even Asia will carry some common genetic marker that identifies us. If you read the Bible, you will recall that the Northern 10 tribes of Israel were basically destroyed by God for their wickedness. There are probably persons scattered around the Middle East who have Jewish DNA. Most people referred to as Jews are from the tribes of Judah, Benjamin or Levites. It's all in the Bible. Or, probably in Josephus works.
Torah Torah Torah!!! Life is found there💙
1 thing is clear, very much so, from your comment.
You don't belong in this sphere. You have no place here and no home among people who frequent this space.
Non-religious people abound. The venom that you spew however reveals you to be an enemy of this space. You should take yourself elsewhere, go among your own kind & leave us in peace
I believe hate is taught both ways. Maybe you are better off not teaching your children why two groups of people with religious differences can not learn how to have tolerance for one another. This is just an opinion. Until the two said groups come together to share a common ground, then neither of the two will never own that ground. As for religion goes, people should practice what they preach and have compassion for their fellow man. Jews and Palestinians share in the reason this conflict continues. What has been taught in the past and up to this point has done nothing to resolve this issue. So maybe it's time to reevaluate what you teach your children. What you have been teaching has only kept the conflict on going and going and going!
Congratulations for posting the most ignorant comment of the year. But then again, you just might be the run of the mill antisemite...
How you can interpret anything cam said as "antisemitic" is beyond ridiculous. So if a jew punches me and I fight back is that me being antisemitic? So if someone just suggests jews and palestinians working peacefully together is antisemitic? Stop living in fantasy land and grow up
It is you who is living in a fantasy land. Cam's comment is so out of touch with reality as to be either stupid or hateful.
I agree. It is totally and completely out of touch, reflects an absence of knowledge in the subject matter, plus a willingness to believe the legacy media's biased cultural Marxist, pro-terrorist view: a view that is always intentionally cushioned in the feminine language of nurturing and supporting the radically violent, terrorist individuals that the cultural Marxists always seems to call "defenseless, vulnerable victims."
I couldn’t have said this better myself !!
that is the most cogent statement on the subject i have ever heard. you nailed it perfectly.
Looking at this the other way, there are people who seem to be implying that the pro-Jewish position can only be that Jews and Palestinians cannot work peacefully together. So if we accept this as "in touch with reality", then what?
Then stay in your lane when you don't know what you're talking about.
Unless you're capable of a Palestinian mind meld. They've held same intractable position for 140 years. No Jews (who aren't subservient, second class citizens) allowed in any part of the land. We are where we are bc of that position alone. Jews had always been willing to negotiate bc we're outnumbered. Arabs have never been willing to negotiate bc we're outnumbered. Arabs have always thought and continue to think they can just toss us if they wait long enough. Do you really think no ones tried sitting down to speak reasonably before? That if we're just nicer the whole problem can be resolved? Now THAT'S la la land. Israel takes a hard line every single time bc there is no other choice if it is to survive.
Well, which is it: their position of 140 (you mean 1400, I think) years is intractable (I'd say immutable), or you expect them to change their position?
You can't sit down and reason with people whose positions are founded on religious principles, and YOUR religious principles have no persuasive power with them especially in this case where their religion EXPLICITLY rejects your religion as being corrupted.
The la la land is thinking that somehow they will change their religious position and accept a Jewish state in their midst. The decision to establish the State of Israel was made without regard for the intractable opposition of those who lived in the region and we have been witnessing the consequences every day since then.
This is the reality, so now what?
I meant 140 years since the first Zionists started showing up. But, who would've thought the Gulf states would change their position on Israel and Jews. So much so that Saudi Arabia, one of the worst former exporters of antisemitism, is actually changing their textbooks.The UAE as well. And Bahrain. Palestinians aren't destined to be extremists. But the change has to come from other Arabs. After the defeat of the Iranian regime. Tall order, I know. But I hope you're not suggesting that bc Arabs are intractable Jews should just leave the region. That would be rewarding petulance. Aside from that, the one thing Arabs and the rest of the world don't understand is that most Israeli Jews are from Arab and North African countries that ethnically cleansed their Jews after the War of Indep.
In other words. They can't "go back to where they came from."
Pt 2 / However, I agree it's going to be a long wait. Generations maybe. In which case, the whole region depends on who tires out first. But again, the world doesn't understand, even the 1/4 of Israelis who come from European descent don't see the possibility of going anywhere else. Look around the West. Do you think America looks like a safe place for Jews? Britain? Certainly not Russia. Jews see themselves as refugees, not colonizers. They're simply seeking, "safe-ish" haven and believe their chances in Israel, as crappy as they are, are better than being spread out over the diaspora dependent on the goodwill of host countries and their populations. That's why Jews won't leave either. They're united in the physical defense of one another. That happens nowhere else in the world.
Good for you! Btw, there is no word for "compromise" in Arabic.
Please don't randomly invent things it makes up look bad
Not an anti-semite. Just typical soft-brained, politically-corrected thinking characteristic of the 'enlightened' fools of Western liberal education. Everything must be equal, all blame must be equally shared; why? Because it feels good & feelings trump facts every time in the 'educated' set. The history is involved & complex, those who know it understand what an utter fool you are.
There is no such thing as a Palestinian.
Palestinians have been brainwashed by hamas. I've spoken to hostages that were released. While one was living in a palestinian home, the little 3 year old was being taught by her parents to hate this Israeli hostage and all Israeli's. Alan, YOU are living in fantasy land!!! It will NEVER happen!! When the palestinians kick hamas out, and become human beings (which won't happen, either, as hamas hides), they can never be in the mindset of you or me. You don't understand how they live over there. They are into butchery, killing, torture. Israel celebrates life and goodness. Remember, gaza was part of Israel. Israel GAVE it to the palestinians for their own territory, as the other arab countries DON'T WANT THEM!!! Who is the bad guy here??!!
Yes, Cam, you are right about reevaluating what is being taught, but what if "practice what they preach" leads to conflict? Have you looked into what the "religious differences" are?
The tension 100 years ago was already a problem, but during the past 100 years both Jews and Muslims in the region have turned up the volume of their religions. When there is this much dissonance, we need quieter, not louder, voices.
How can two groups who both believe that God favours them over the other and has made promises to them learn tolerance for one another?
How can you learn tolerance for people who declare "Allahu Akbar" while slaughtering innocent people? They did what they did on October 7 because it was what they believed God wanted from them.
We need less religion.
I'm aware of the Jewish claim on the land, but where is there stated anywhere that God favours anyone else. The Jewish people (more accurately all the people of Yisrael) were intended to be remain a "light to the nations" as in something that can guide someone in darkness out of that darkness and into light. Where is there any other "favouring" as you put it being said. Cite sources please. Perhaps people are being taught something that is incorrect or who knows?
I meant to say "intended to be and still remain"
I'm not exactly sure what you are asking me. Both Christianity and Islam make claims about their relationship with God. I think that it is important for Jews to read and understand what these religions are saying.
I think every Jew should read what the Qur'an says about Jews; read at least the second chapter. Start by reading the information about this Surah at https://quran.com/surah/2/info It seems that many Israelis are woefully ignorant of what it is that they are fighting. There are now close to 2 billion Muslims being taught from this book.
It creates an impossible situation when groups stand proudly and arrogantly on contradictory religious claims.
The religious claim is made by Haredi Jews. 50% of Israelis are secular. Most are well aware that the religious claim doesn't fly in the secular world of the West. And Zionism began as a secular movement. The secular claim is this is where we come from -- our historical homeland. And that's proven by all the archeological sites dating back 3000 yrs.
Zionism may have seemed only like a secular movement, yet Our G-d is over all. All those who worked to build the land, secular or not, have blessed all of Israel. The very existence of the Jews in itself, is a Light to the nations.
Blessed is He
Religion is not the problem. The nature of Islam is the problem. They struck out from Mecca after the death of M. and converted or killed all the Jews, Christians, and Pagans living on the Arabian Peninsula. Since then, over the centuries, that has been their modus operendi and they continue to this day. You need an education.
You are incorrect in so many ways. You are the one in need of an education.
The murder of Jews began in Medina and Khaybar before the death of M This is an important distinction. Because M ordered the murder of Jews, murder of Jews is part of Islam, forever. Had the murders begun only after M's death, it could be declared as un-Islamic and there would be a chance to change this murderous ideology.
It is utter ignorance to suppose that killing members of Hamas will change Islam and end the violence against Jews.
ADS is absolutely right by far that we need LESS religion!!!! ... & more plain pure RARE human decency understanding compassion trustworthiness cooperation constructiveness humane humanity ... oh, ... & some plain pure RARE PRECIOUS Human DECENCY!!!!
Without G-d, you expect the impossible, my friend.
When people begin to realize that there is only “One God”…… the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (not Allah……a false god) or any other false deities, then and ONLY then can they truly accept the fact that God chose Israel as HIS own and made a blood
Covenant with the Jewish people and gave the “Land” to them only…..then maybe the fighting will cease….but I personally doubt it.
Look to HASHEM💙
I hear your opinion, to which you are entitled under the first amendment, and kindly advise you to reflect upon it in the church or mosque of your choice.
You are profoundly wrong. The distinction here is clear. One side is for peace, the other for genocide. Judaism is the path to peace- all its edicts and principles are toward peace. All the paths and principles of Islam are for murder, war and death to the "non-believers". This is not merely theoretical. The whole Arab world ,until the Trump initiated Abraham Accords, has vowed to wipe Israel off the map. Though most of the Muslim world for decades taught their children to hate and kill Jews, now hopefully, that has begun to change in those countries now signatories to the Abraham Accords. The "Palestinians" ( I use quotes because they are a fake people- a people invented by Arafat and the Romanian KGB, which did not exist before 1964. You should read the Charter of Hamas and the PA
which clearly and shamelessly state their Hitlerian intentions. There is no such equivalent on the Israel side. Jews are not taught to hate or murder. Israel is acting in self-defense. As Golda Meir said, "if the Arabs put down their arms there will be peace. If Israel puts down its arms, there will be genocide". We certainly have seen much evidence that they mean it.
You speak truth
Wow! Someone who knows the truth. A fake people, fake flag but interestingly, Arafat couldn't come up with a language for his fake followers.
Someone should have let Ben Gurion, Dayan, Sharon, and Netanyahu (to name a few) in on this little secret about peacefulness. It seems they missed the memo. One doesn't order "maximal killing" and hold these principals to be true contemporaneously. And you should read these men's private diaries and public comments, they are illuminating, but not in a "light unto the world" kind of way.
2 groups...you think this is about 2 groups? My friend you have been mis-informed or you haven't been paying attention
So go ahead Lenny please explain more&better what this is about, please go ahead & explain & ThankYou in advance!
GaryLA 🙂 I’ll explain this to you for Lenny….this has always been a “spiritual” battle since the beginning and will continue until the day that the Messiah comes!
Talk to Hamas and the Muslims about why two people who aren't both Muslims can't live together side by side? After statehood has been offered to them umpteen times including before Israel was even a state. Something about wanting a caliphate in the region.
You know absolutely nothing! Best to read, "From Time Immemorial" and when you're finished, you will be able to teach about the history of the Middle East as a college professor.
Not an anti-semite. Just typical soft-brained, politically-corrected thinking characteristic of the 'enlightened' fools of Western liberal education. Everything must be equal, all blame must be equally shared; why? Because it feels good & feelings trump facts every time in the 'educated' set. The history is involved & complex, those who know it understand what an utter fool you are.
You overlooked a fatal difference. Jews are willing to co-exist with others if we must. Conversely, Islam rigidly teaches to eventually either convert or destroy Infidels. A real time example is the Hamas charter that contains the goal of destroying the Jews/Israel.
No, Islam is more nuanced in its teaching than that. There have been Jewish communities embedded in Islamic states since the beginning of Islam. If their destruction was unconditionally mandated, these communities could not have survived for so many centuries. Jewish communities which comply with Islamic law are protected; co-existence is possible.
How many Israelis have taken any time to study Islamic law, something that is so impactful to their situation? Like it or not, those whom we fight believe this law to be God-given and believe that eternal damnation is the consequence of disobedience.
Israel was very happy and peaceful up to October 6th. When hamas and palestinians came in to rape, torture, behead, cook babies in ovens while alive, cut unborn babies from pregnant mothers' stomachs and behead them - ya just can't try to talk that out. You go after them, and I'm so proud of Bibi and the IDF to do what they are doing. How can you find a peaceful way to coexist when barbarians and evil come into your country to do all of that to women and children??!! If hamas (who were created and took over gaza by Iran, in order to provoke and destroy Israel) would ask for a month of talks to try and maybe have a two state solution, WITHOUT CONSTANTLY bombing Israel, that would be a different story. But, hamas and palestinians only know terrorist evil satanic ways.
I feel that I have gone from being a loud Jew to a quiet Jew. I share my Judaism in places that I consider safe - to people who already know me and won't judge, hate, or misrepresent me for being Jewish or Pro-Israel. But in the world of unknown strangers, where I no longer can distinguish anti-semites from supporters, I keep more to myself. I have closeted my Judaism to feel safe.
I have done the opposite. The haters and criminals will not defeat us. In the end, they never have. Buy a gun.
So non-violent. What a peaceful suggestion.
And you are absolutely right sane & justified to safely protect yourself, & so Safe-Travels unto you!!!!
Rebecca, I cry with you, yet we lift our eyes to the mountains from where our help comes. Our help comes from HASHEM, Maker of heaven and earth.....Tehillim 121
Gaza is being circumcised from Israel. as Sarah said "thou are a bloody husband unto me". Apparently, she was the first mohel, though I've never heard a discussion about it. Israel should have whatever it needs. As to anti-Semitism, the worst is always from other Jews.
"anti-Segmitism" hurts more from another jew because you are a nebish .
Sarah? I think you mean Tzipporah (Exodus 4:25), who was several generations after "the first mohel" - Abraham, who circumcised himself, Ismael, and Isaac.
I recently read an article from Academia.edu that women were the first mohels in Judaism. After the Temple was destroyed and Rabbinic Judaism began, women were banned from acting as mohels.
No. The worst is not always from other Jews
the jewish center here (open to all) had pictures up of all the kidnapped people, along with age and country of origin...that lasted 2 days. they were taken down. a few non jewish women i exercise with were FUMING....we were actually told that the pictures scared the kids (2-3-4 year olds) 'come on...then we were told there were "'complaints" and not by non-jewish people --- jewish people! we could not believe it...sometimes it does feel like our own are enemies! the in-fighting in Israel seems to be crucial in this dilemma....i was in israel in 73 right before that war - it was heaven and i wanted to stay there....my mom talked me out of it but at the time it took a year to get used to being back here.
the erev rav, mixed multitude, follows our people along throughout the generations constantly making problems for us. Perhaps first we should clean up our own house a bit and then things will be a better environment in which to be a light to the nations.
The Jew h8ters I battle online are always posting little videos of certain Orthodox Jews decrying the state of Israel, or other videos of Jews saying h8teful things to back up their h8te Israel stance.
Everyone should have their free speech, but the anti-Israel voices that come from Jews is definitely used as a political 'weapon' by the Jew-h8ters.
Plenty of irony going on.
They are used as propaganda but are a very small insignificant group. We are not sure they are even Jews.
Oh yes, they are Jews, but certainly akin to the fallen angel who became the Devil.
American liberal Jews are the true enemies of Israel and all that is Jewish. I became convinced of this during my Birthright trip in 2001, which was the best time of my life. We had a couple of liberal Jewish infiltrators in the group who lied in their interview about never being to Israel, and their sole purpose of going there. Which was not Jewish pride or the love of their people. It was to go to gaza to "help the poor oppressed Pal's" If you heard the genocidal things these monsters said about Israel, Israelis and Jews in general, you would not have believed your own ears. They didn't dare to say any of this to our faces, it was all done after the trip via yahoo groups.
Many of the Jewish students who protest against Israel do so because they never developed a connection with Israel 🇮🇱. Send your children at least to after school Jewish education, they need to learn our connection to the land and our people. Don't be quiet, stand up.
I respectfully disagree - Palestinians have stewed in and been educated in Jew Hatred for 100 years - even an UN agency is in on this.
Surely you have ready recent surveys showing overwhelming support by Palestinians for the Oct 7 atrocities (around 80% I believe). Hamas may treat the Gazans cruelly, but it does not mean Jew hatred is not alive and well in the greater population. When someone who has killed says they want to kill more, they should be believed. The Palestinians are grown ups and should be held responsible for their own actions which has been to reject peace with the Jews for 100 years - there would have been a functioning Palestinian state a long time ago if they actually wanted one.
exactly+
They have rejected 5 opportunities to have a State. What they really want is to murder Jews. They revel in it.
I agree that the evil inflicted on the Jews is unspeakable - I literally don't have words to describe the depths on f my feeling. But where were all the quiet Jews when the Gaza strip was being terrorized by a Jewish authority? We must learn to speak out against injustice no matter who is the perpetrator. Every bomb now hitting Gaza is creating heaven knows how many more terrorists. This is not what we want. We need a humanitarian cease fire. Remember, Hamas is only 2% of the population being attacked. Remember who the enemy is and it's not all Palestinians.
The Gaza Strip has never been terrorized by Jews. Why have the Gazans been suffering? Because their corrupt Hamas government (which they elected) uses all funds for terror, not to provide services to the citizens. It is absurd to think Hamas is only 2% of the Gazan population. Did you not see how they danced in the streets and passed out candy on October 7? And as to creating more terrorists, don't think they wouldn't be fomenting terror if we did not retaliate for this attack--there were terrorists long before there was a State of Israel (Hebron 1929 ring a bell?). A ceasefire would put our IDF soldiers at greater risk--unacceptable. Hamas must be crushed. Period.
We gave Gaza to self rule in 2005. They elected Hamas to power, just as Germans elected Hitler in 1933. Instead of developing Gaza, Hamas, supported by most Gazans chose war against Israel. Only 7% of Germans were members of the Nazi party, but German civilians suffered in a necessary war. No humanitarian ceasefire was promoted to allow Hitler to rearm. A resounding victory has ensured that we are no longer afraid of terrorists from Germany. A similar resounding victory must be obtained against Hamas.
And Americans elected Trump. Is Elon Musk and his ilk the cause? The symptom? I ask that question sincerely.
And what does victory look like, exactly? I'm not being snarky. I'm being sincere.
The people of Gaza elected Hamas. True be that. The people of Israel elected Netanyahu. True be that. Elect extremists and this is what you get. America elected Trump. True be that. Soon after, Nazis marched in Charlottesville shouting the German chant "Jews will not replace us".
This quiet Jew saw our country try for many decades to be brokers for peace in that region. The thanks we got? 9/11. And our civil liberties have been curtailed likely forever. True be that.
And peace be with you? Probably not.
Your first 2 lines just delegitimized any arguments. Hamas and Netenyahu are not to be compared. One is a terrorist org and the other is a politician in a democratic country.
Israel, like the USA is a democracy, true. If we can keep it. Israelis have made a choice and have chosen leaders that are more than willing to systematically destroy the pillars of their democratic institutions. We in America are on the cusp of doing the same thing. When we've lost the moral high ground we are democracies in name only. The Republican Party in the USA, with its election denying titular head, is a terrorist organization. I fear we will never have a peaceful transition of power again. So puleeze, don't throw Hamas at me. I know exactly who and what they are. But Israel and America? I don't recognize us.
Stuart where is your democratic party today? The Harvard elites and other socialist groups who cannot condemn Jewish Genocide and march with pro hamas savagery???
Obviously we have enemies from both extreme but save yourselve from insanity and remember that if Jews don't stand up for Israel no matter what government-"even" netanyau who by the way did give peace a chance thru Bill Clinton's peace negotiations with y"ms Arafat which lead to more terror killings-then no one will!!!!
Am Yisrael Chai!!!
What you write is blatantly untrue. Give us all an example of how Israeli leaders are destroying their democratic institutions. I await your reply.
Maybe you're too young to remember Al Gore trying to prove that he really won the presidential election. And maybe you were just a toddler when Hillary complained incessantly that it was she who won the election of 2016. Poor baby...
have you seen a doctor already?
I strongly dislike Netanyahu. In fact, dislike is too mild a word for what I feel.
But there is simply no comparison between Netanyahu and Hamas.
Expanding the settlements in Judea and Samaria is a bad idea, IMO. While most "settlements" are legal, despite the common rhetoric, that does not make them wise.
But anyone who equates building homes (which can be sold, or torn down, if needed) with gang-raping, torturing, and massacing innocent people (who can never be brought back to life), has a serious lack of moral clarity.
Judea and Samaria are essential parts of Israel and always have been. Parts of those areas are currently Occupied by illegal Arab settlers. You need to educate yourself. You really are a know nothing. I hope you know and understand more about math than you do about the history of the Middle East and Israel in particular including the British Mandate and the Mandate from God in the Torah which is even more important. Within the next year, Iran will have a nuclear weapon which they intend to use against Israel and the US. If our treasonous moron President doen't stop them Israel will, thus being on the front line protecting Western Civilization. Your comment has not done you proud. Get an education. A little learning is a dangerous thing.
Calling Netanyahu an extremist is absurd. Trump said "there are good people on each side" which he clarified by saying there are also evil people on both sides, all of which was true. He condemned the Nazis and extremists on both sides. People like you who don't seem to be interested in facts, are easily fooled by the corrupt leftist media and swallow their lies whole.
You're the problem. Moral equivalence simply excuses hatred and violence
It is disheartening to bear witness to the absurd ignorance and subsequent statements of even well meaning people.
The region and conflict that so many allow themselves to speak of, and yet know so little of, is what inflames an already aggravated situation in a country and on a people-the Jewish people, who have been subject to terror for time immemorial.
When a persons only narrative is the one that lopsided media present, and whose knowledge of the world and its discrepancies are based on memes and Instagram feeds and clips of information that are either out of context or misconstrued context, then I can understand this well meaning but misguided stance.
If there is a true interest in truth and justice, we’d all be living in a very different world…
Yes to what you write.
That is not true, Langdon. Did you see the so-called "innocent" palestinians doing anything when hostages were paraded through Gaza, women raped and being paraded around naked in front of the "innocent" population who spat at them and threw things at them? What about the "innocent" palestinians at shifra hospital in Gaza who watched and cheered as hostages were being smuggled inside? Please also do not forget that hamas was ELECTED to represent the "innocent" people of Gaza. Just out of curiosity, where on earth do you get that hamas only represents 2% of the palestinians in Gaza? Please look at the facts and leave your anti-Israel agenda at the door.
Do u live in Gaza or something? Stop believing the lies. Israel has not ruled Gaza since 2005. While Palestinians has a pay to slay policy against Jews. Israel will respond to any act of terror against it's people. And come after terrorists wherever they are. You need to stop believing the Hamas stories and believe "your people" over murderers.
Very sad you didn't read the other comments especially the one above yours..."up to 80% of Palestinians agreed with the Oct 7th attack" in what reality are you living in????
Wrong. Israel left Gaza totally in 2005. Before that, they kept military control because there were constant attacks against Israeli civilians on a regular basis. 80% of "Palestinians" approve of what Hamas did on Oct 7. The "innocent Poor people of Gaza" danced in the streets with glee as dead and alive ut gang raped woen were exhibited from the back of pick-up trucks. They dismembered babies, roasted a live baby in an oven, tied father and son together and burned them alive, ripped open the belly of a pregnant woman and chopped up the fetus, then shot the mother in the head. You should go live in Gaza for a while. They are occupied by Hamas, not by Israel.
Having a hard time believing someone named "Langdon Hagen- Long" is the moral authority for a foolish ceasefire giving up all the progress, nullifying the deaths of numerous Israeli soldiers, allowing Hamas to survive, and ceding momentum to the enemy. Living in a peaceful world of rainbows, with little concept of political realities and guilt for being powerful, assertive, and proud of oneself as a Jew in a non-Jewish world is what might motivate someone to live in a world where Jewish blood is cheaper than that of all others. I personally think all lives matter, but will not discount my brother's blood before that of the rest of the world. If it comes down to it, Jews will have to come first if my primary identity is that of a Jew, unless, of course, I don't believe in any religion.
Don't sway between two opinions on this. It isn't hard to understand. Weigh it all out and see truth.
Thank you! A rational humane being!
I pray the Jews people will defeat and destroy Hamas and Israel will be peaceful. May God bless Israel.
Thank you for writing exactly how I feel!
Thank you for writing what I am feeling. Fortunately, I have recently moved to an erea that has a strong Jewish community where I can be present to share my solidarity. Blessings to all.
Thank you so much for sharing. If you are/were a "quiet" Jew, I would have to call myself a "loud" Jew, with my obvious head covering, modest dress and husband and son's with their tzitzis and paiyos. BUT I still don't see any differences between us because you are a Jew and I am a Jew. Whether we are loud or quiet, at the end of the day, we are the same; we are ONE!!!
If you're one, then do something about your bad, greedy, warmongering tribal cousins. ...Or live with the resulting anti-semitism.
Gaslighting much?
Heather- I salute you! As the Torah says, we need to be unified- " Like one man, with one heart."
I was born right before WW2 and I have memories of it. I support Israel's right to exist but have not been that knowledgeable about the conditions for those the Israelis have replaced. I want to think that the Jewish people learned compassion from our long experiences with prejudice, but seeing the plight of the Palestinian I think this attack was inevitable. Doesn't mean I support this horrific attack, but from what I'm seeing, videos of the prison Israel has made of Gaza, Turning into our enemies is not a good look. There has to be a better way for Israel to respond than to bomb those not involved. Israel needs leaders who will set a better example for the world, not the usual respond evil with evil. We're the smartest people on the planet. We can and should so better than this.
Dear Dubby, I live in Israel. Our people have NOT made the life of the Palestinians awful. Hamas and the PA have. If you could see the enormous mansion that Abbas lives in while he scoops up the money from the US, EU and UN, you would be shocked. Hamas has used all the millions to build tunnels and terror infrastructure instead of creating a flourishing Gaza. Before the withdrawal, it was a beautiful place. Do not succumb to the antisemitic reporting of the US mainstream media. I live in the WB and there is a community of PA Arabs near me that live in palatial homes. Not us! The poverty and suffering are and continue to, be created by Abbas, Hamas and Hezbollah. The Israeli government has given so much, has been so patient and for what? To kill, rape, torture and kidnap.
This is known to people with eyes wide open and share the truth.
Hamas is evil. This we know. Don't let Israel be evil, too. An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.
Would you have advised the Jews to behave with restraint in the face of the Nazis? That is, in effect, what you are doing. No country on earth is expected to defend itself with restraint.....except Israel. What does that tell you? It tells me that antisemitism is alive and well. Catchy sayings; "an eye for an eye" etc. mean nothing in the face of barbarism and defending against barbarism is not evil. It is required of all decent and moral people. Be glad that you live in a country where you will never have to know war and injustice as do Israelis. If you want to help, encourage Palestinians to throw out their true oppressors and get their own act together.Encourage them to embrace education and investment and justice for all, as do Israelis. They are responsible for their lot.
Gaza is not going to throw out Hamas. Palestinians believe in their hearts and minds that Jews colonized the land of Israel, stole Palestinian land, and should be evicted so Palestinians can reclaim the land. They have passed on their hatred from generation to generation. Everything to them is about revenge. The United Nations created the State of Israel, but Jews have lived in Israel for thousands of years. The war that Israel is waging is not about revenge - it is truly about self-defense. There are 300 miles of tunnels beneath Gaza. Those tunnels must be blocked or destroyed before there can be peace. That is what Israel is trying to do - Israel is not using this war to intentionally kill Palestinians.
I agree with everything you say, Kathryn, but...
Once the tunnels have been destroyed, then what? Shouldn't we have known the answer before such a campaign was carried out?
Not only will the hatred remain; it will be further inflamed. Hamas will not be destroyed, just the tunnels, and much of the housing and schools and hospitals and the infrastructure to live in Gaza. Israel will not be secure. Even the total destruction of Gaza would not make Israel secure.
Israel needs leadership that can see beyond reacting to an immediate crisis.
I can assure you the leadership of Israel understands much more than you do about what needs to be done. As is obvious to anyone with half a brain, the first step is the complete annihilation of Hamas. After that, a reversal of the brainwashing they get from the moment they are born. Israel has great leadership. You don't live in that neighborhood- they do. Arrogant of you to think you know better.
The U.N. did not create Israel-God did. The Jews who miraculously defeated 7 Arab armies in 1948 received no help from anyone except for Czechoslovakia which sold them antiquated rifles, fought desperately and shed their blood to re-establish the land to its rightful owners.
This is not a retaliation, It is protecting and preserving Israeli citizens. Israel goes out of their way to avoid harming Palestinian citizens-although at least 75% of those "innocent" Palestinians support the slaughter that took place on October 7th, celebrating the deaths of the Israelis in the streets-loudly and without remorse. Thousands of Palestinian men and male teens came over with Hamas and engaged in the slaughter. Some of them were Palestinians that had work visas and worked along side of residents of kibbutzim - they knew their victims. Israel has always supplied Gaza with their water and electricity - with Abbas refusing to 'pay the utility bills'. Palestinians that are treated in hospitals in Israel also are not forced to reimburse for their treatment. Do your research.
"Those who are merciful to the cruel will be cruel to the merciful" Midrash on Samuel
Are you not aware of the Jewish law to kill a would be murderer!!!????
Again a stupid response. Self-defense is not evil. In fact it is a good deed to protect people from attacks by vicious criminals and beasts. This is not an eye for an eye. This is defeating evil.
You sympathise with those who want to kill us?
Shame on you!
I could t agree more. Of course I'm outraged by this atrocity. But Israel can't be surprised and certainly shouldn't be surprised. There must be a better, more responsible way to respond. With every bomb falling, every child killed, Israel is creating more terrorists . It looks like Israel is trying to solve the " Palestinian problem", by exterminating all Palestinians. That didn't work for Germany and it won't work for Israel. Please, please be better than this!
Did anyone suggest during WWII to allow Nazi Germany a peaceful resolution ???? The only resolution is when Hamas surrenders unconditionally and releases all hostages which obviously they will not...wake up to reality!!!
If you have a better solution, let us know. Complete victory worked in WW2. Nothing that we have tried since then has worked well
Thank you for your heartfelt comment.
A heart has no purpose without a brain... Obviously you have some deep seated problem that keeps you, like Dubby, from processing October 7th. Jews have always done everything possible for peace. To create a welcoming home in Israel for Jews, but also the hundreds of sects of Jews, Christians and Muslims. You are either unwilling or unable to see what is being literally shoved down your throat; Hamas, Islamic Jihad, PFLP and dozens of other Muslim terrorist organizations solely exist to kill every Jew everywhere. And they won't stop until they are either dead or have exterminated the last Jew. EVERY person walking Gaza has been taught this since birth, and as they are being treated in Israeli hospitals, when they walk out they will raise every child to kill Jews.
Dear Dubby, if you know your people you would know that Jews want peace and love for everyone. It is in the essence of who we are. But if someone comes to your baby and slaughters your baby you should be prepared for the wrath of God. If you know your people you would know your people and not believe the lies.
Israel gave Gaza to the Arab Palestinians, as a test case, to see what they would do with autonomy. Israel removed every single soldier and every single Jewish civilian and handed the land over, including many greenhouses and other structures and infrastructure to help Gaza start its economy.
The Gazans turned around and elected Hamas, a terrorist organization with the stated goal of committing genocide against the Jewish people. They destroyed the infrastructure that was bequeathed to them.
Israel sends potable water to Gaza because the Gazans, under Hamas, tore up the sewer pipes to make rocket launchers, and then the sewage seeped into the fresh water aquifer that should have supplied them with water of their own! And they've done the same with the replacement pipes.
And when Israel withdrew in 2005, there was no blockade, and no restrictions on crossig the border; many Gazans worked in Israel.
But the terror campaign that killed hundreds and maimed thousands, and cost millions of dollars in damage, made the border fence and the blockade necessary.
And despite the fact that Gaza has been in a constant state of war with Israel since it got its independence, Israel sends food, water, and medicine into Gaza, and provides it with fuel and electricitiy, because once again Hamas and PIJ and other terrorists scavenged parts they could use for weapons or tunnels from their power plant, leaving it to fall apart.
What other nation provides such humanitarian aid to the people who are trying to destroy them?
Israel has not turned Gaza into a prison. Their behavior has. Egypt shoots dead any Gazans trying to sneak into their territory. No Arab country will allow them entrance. They are poison wherever they go- a group of murderers who bring chaos with them. Why blame Israel for fighting to protect its citizens from constant attack for decades? Israel allowed 20,000 "Palestinians" into Israel every day for work and a good income. As a way of giving thanks for that great opportunity, they mapped Israeli Kibbutzim and cities for Hamas to make it easier for them to attack. When Israel pulled out of Gaza in 2005 they left an industry in tact for the "Palestinians" to use to make a living- a prosperous living. Instead, on the first day, they destroyed the greenhouses and turned it into a terro
terrorist base from which rockets were launched into civilian Israeli neighborhoods making life impossible for residents. Wake up and find out what is really happening instead of mouthing Muslim and leftist propaganda.
I thought you had read my mind and wrote my story. Perfectly articulated!