Views on the News: Har Nof attack
On Tuesday morning, two Palestinian men stormed an Orthodox synagogue in Jerusalem with guns and meat cleavers, killing three rabbis and one scholar, including three Americans and one man from the United Kingdom. The attackers were killed at the scene by police officers, but not before eight other people were injured, one of whom has since died from the injuries. This attack is yet another example of the escalating violence of the past month, with some labeling these attacks as the beginning of a Third Intifada. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to “respond harshly” to the events on Tuesday, including demolishing the attacker’s homes. How do you react to the events in Jerusalem, and what effect do you see foresee from the recent spike in violence?
Chen Arad ’15
My English vocabulary lacks words sufficiently poignant to describe this atrocity. It brings back painful memories from the early 2000s, when Israelis had to think twice before leaving their houses. It is thus easy to identify with Israel’s right-wing leadership’s accusations against Palestinian leaders. However, vengeful and careless statements—often driven by political interests rather than well-thought-out strategy—are the last thing the situation needs. Studies of the 2000 Intifada led experts to a consensus that a more calculated response could have reduced bloodshed on both sides. Israel’s leadership would be better off tuning in to statements by security chiefs, like head of the Shin Bet Yoram Cohen, who oppose collective punishments against Palestinians and reject claims that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has been inciting to terrorism.
Chen Arad ’15 is a cofounder of Brandeis Visions for Israel in an Evolving World.
Tzlil Levy '17
As the only democracy in the Middle East, Israel is the only country in the region that allows freedom of religion and expression. It is intolerable that Jews cannot enjoy these rights due to terrorist attacks. The attacks are part of a cycle of violence, which breeds more hate and more hostility. The more recent stabbings highlight the escalation of violence in Jerusalem and the rising anti-Semitism. These recent atrocities call for immediate action. It is necessary to prevent the murder of more innocent people. These attacks also affect the United States and the relationship America has with Israel. As more Americans are being persecuted abroad, it is essential for America to stand behind these families in a time of grief. As the violence continues, it is Israel’s right to defend its citizens, country and most of all, its principles of democracy and freedom of religion.
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