Preparing U.S. Jews for Assault on Gaza -Rabbi Eric YoffieIsrael's response to the rocket fire directed at its cities has been far more restrained than what would be expected from any other civilized, democratic government. Since 2001, more than 7,000 rockets have been fired from Gaza at civilian targets in Israel. A "proportionate" response would involve 7,000 Israeli rockets fired at civilians in Gaza.
Is the "occupation" responsible for the rocket fire? Prime Minister Sharon pulled out of every inch of Gaza in 2005, yet there has not been a single day of quiet following that withdrawal. Indeed, rocket strikes significantly increased after it was completed. The simple fact is that if terror and rocket fire were to come to an end in Gaza, Palestinian suffering there would end as well.
[T]here would soon be no alternative to an Israeli move against Hamas forces in Gaza. This is not a welcome scenario. An Israeli attack on Gaza is certain to unleash a barrage of international criticism.
American support will be essential if Israel's military is to have the time it needs to complete its mission. Our task now is to support Israel in its time of need, to make its case to our fellow citizens, and to do all that we can to rally the Jewish people and good people everywhere to its side.
(New York Jewish Week)
Rabbi Yoffie is president of the Union for Reform Judaism.
2 comments:
Well reasoned and cleanly presented. Hard to argue with this point of view, though you know someone will.
Indeed, though the article came as a bit of a surprise. Rabbi Yoffie is not known for his saber rattling...which makes the piece all the more important and influential.
Many on the far-left will be unhappy with Rabbi Yoffie, but he has my endorcement.
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