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Israel - Hamas War 2023
At 6:30 a.m. on October 7, during the Simchat Torah Holiday, the terror organization Hamas, launched an unprovoked and vicious surprise attack on over 20 communities in Southern Israel. Using rockets, paragliders, boats, motorcycles and other vehicles. Thousands of terrorists infiltrated the Jewish state and murdered around 1,210 innocent people, injured over 5,400, and took 236 hostages into Gaza.
Photo: IDF
Navigating Moral Dilemmas: The Israel – Hamas-ISIS Agreement
By: Prof. Isaac Ashkenazi
In the realm of complex geopolitical deals, some liken them to a pact with the devil. The recent agreement between Israel and Hamas-ISIS, particularly regarding the release of abductees, prompts us to explore profound moral and legal quandaries.
Making a deal with the devil is inherently perilous. The devil, often depicted as seeking one’s soul, resorts to deceit and manipulation. When faced with such negotiations, does one risk becoming tainted by the same malevolence? Can one preserve their values while engaging in such transactions.
The recent abduction of innocents, tormented in the depths of Hamas tunnels, compels us to grapple with these challenging questions. How can we liberate the abducted without compromising our principles?
In facing the devil, one might need to adopt a similar mindset, occasionally mirroring strategic thinking. But the fundamental question remains: How do we confront evil without succumbing to it? Can we ensure justice without sacrificing our core values?
As we ponder these dilemmas, the path forward demands careful consideration and ethical navigation. Engaging with the devil may be inevitable in certain circumstances, but preserving the essence of our humanity becomes paramount in the process.
(originally posted on LinkedIn)
Photo: IDF
Photo: IDF
A HANDGUN IS NOT AN IPHONE!
By Prof. Isaac Ashkenazi
In light of recent events, I’ve been reflecting on the growing political distribution of weapons in Israel. This surge, catalyzed by the Hamas-ISIS attack on October 7th, raises crucial questions about the role of citizens in self-defense and its broader implications.
Two Key Concerns:
1. The shift of responsibility from the state to citizens, potentially compromising overall security.
2. The global evidence linking increased civilian weapons to higher rates of violence, accidents, and harm to vulnerable groups.
Recent Developments: Following the attack, a political party advocating for relaxed gun licenses gained traction, leading to a significant surge in gun permits. This shift challenges our perceptions of security and the balance between citizen empowerment and potential risks.
Personal Reflection: In my global mentoring, I’ve emphasized citizen roles in emergencies. However, recent events force me to reevaluate the balance between individual empowerment and state responsibility. A recent terror incident in Jerusalem (Yuval Kestelman) highlighted both the potential benefits and risks of armed civilians.
A Call for Caution: While arming citizens may offer short-term security, it raises critical questions about long-term consequences. Is it a genuine solution or a reaction rooted in fear? Drawing from global examples, we must tread carefully to avoid exacerbating existing issues.
What are your thoughts on this delicate balance between citizen empowerment and state responsibility?
(originally posted on LinkedIn)
