A year has passed since the brutal Hamas massacre in Israel, which claimed the lives of 1,200 people and left many more traumatized. The attack was a stark reminder that, despite concessions, terrorist groups like Hamas will continue to perpetrate violence and terrorize innocent civilians. The international community, particularly the United States, must recognize that Hamas and its affiliates are not legitimate entities, but rather perpetrators of atrocities that undermine the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights.
In the aftermath of the attack, it is essential to revisit the history of the Middle East conflict. Contrary to popular narratives, Jews have been present in the region for over 3,000 years, and the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 was a result of a United Nations declaration. The indigenous non-Jewish population was offered civil rights and the opportunity to remain in the territory, while the UN proposed a separate state for Arabs and other groups.
However, the Palestinian leadership rejected this proposal, opting instead for a unified state that would encompass the entire territory, with no room for Jewish presence. This rejection set the tone for the subsequent decades of conflict, with Israel seeking peace and coexistence, while being met with repeated attacks and aggression from Arab and Islamic nations, as well as Palestinian groups.
Today, Israel remains committed to protecting its citizens and upholding democratic values, with non-Jewish citizens enjoying equal rights and representation in the government. In contrast, Hamas-controlled Gaza is a bastion of oppression, where native Palestinians are denied basic rights, and Jews are not welcome.
In the wake of the October 7 attack, Israel has taken measures to eradicate Hamas, while minimizing civilian casualties. Despite this, the group continues to thwart humanitarian aid efforts, using resources to build terrorist infrastructure. The international community, particularly the United States, must recognize Israel’s right to self-defense and provide unwavering support in its fight against terrorism.
Unfortunately, the Biden administration has failed to provide adequate support, instead opting for a policy of restraint that only emboldens terrorist groups. The administration’s criticism of Israel and refusal to enforce sanctions against Iran have only served to enable Hamas and its proxies. It is imperative that the United States recognizes Israel’s value as a strategic ally, one that shares Western values and advances American interests in the region.
Israel’s commitment to peace and coexistence is evident in its history of forging lasting agreements with former adversaries, including Egypt, Jordan, and several Gulf states. In contrast, terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah are driven by a radical ideology that seeks to eradicate Western presence and values from the Middle East.
As the United States navigates this complex landscape, it must prioritize support for Israel, recognizing the shared values of democracy, freedom, and human rights. By doing so, the United States can help to create a more stable and secure region, one that is better equipped to counter the threats posed by terrorist groups.
