I am deeply saddened and concerned about what has been happening in Israel, especially since October 7, 2023. But it did not begin that day. For years, Israel has been shifting steadily to the right, particularly under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu. Ironically, had Arab citizens of Israel voted at the same rate as Jewish citizens, Netanyahu’s coalition would not have secured a majority.

It is often said that Netanyahu clings to power to avoid the consequences of his bribery trial. While there is truth to that, I believe the greater reality is simpler: he wants to stay in power for the sake of power itself. He has become a megalomaniac, much like Donald Trump, convinced that “he alone” can save his country. Meanwhile, the opposition in Israel has grown weaker and less clear in its leadership. Tragically, the same phenomenon can be seen in the United States. As a citizen of both countries, I find myself living under the leadership of two men I deeply despise.

The Failures of October 7

October 7th should never have happened. Yet Netanyahu has taken no responsibility for the fact that communities near Gaza were left unprotected while the army was redirected to guard settlers in the West Bank. This failure does not diminish the horror of what Hamas did that day. Hamas is a monstrous organization, fueled by fanatical religious and nationalist beliefs. They do not care for their own people; they are driven solely by hatred. Gaza has become an open-air prison, run by the worst of the inmates.

Israel’s Flawed Response

Israel’s response after October 7 was driven more by rage than by strategy. Instead of immediately launching a military campaign into Gaza, Israel should have made the release of hostages its top priority. By invading Gaza, it risked war with Hezbollah—an even stronger adversary armed with more than 100,000 guided missiles. Fortunately, Hezbollah stayed out.

Israel could and should have sought international help in negotiating the hostages’ release. Once their safe return was secured, Israel could have determined the best path forward. Instead, we are nearly two years into this war. Gaza has been destroyed, Hamas has been crippled, but the suffering continues. It is time to stop.

While I believe many in Gaza support the destruction of Israel, I cannot accept that their children and infants bear responsibility.

What Should Happen Now

Israel should withdraw its troops immediately and issue Hamas an ultimatum: return the hostages. Gaza must no longer be a threat to Israel, but it is not Israel’s job to rebuild it. Let other nations take on that responsibility. Humanitarian aid—food and medicine—should be allowed in, managed by a trusted international body. Israel will object, as it has little faith in outside powers, but the alternative is endless occupation. And occupation only creates more problems.

The World and the Jews

Today, the world has turned against Israel—or more precisely, against the Israeli government. Many Israelis themselves feel the same. But tragically, the backlash has spilled over into hatred against Jews everywhere. The level of antisemitism we are now witnessing has not been seen since the Holocaust. It is real, it is dangerous, and it is unacceptable.

I cannot say with certainty how responsible Israel is for the hunger in Gaza, or even how widespread it is. What I do know is this: Israel must leave Gaza, and it must leave now. Otherwise, right-wing fanatics will use the opportunity to push for new settlements, repeating the same mistakes made in the West Bank.

A Personal Note

I know this post is raw and not my most polished writing. But I needed to get these thoughts out. They weigh heavily on me. I suspect my words may provoke many—but perhaps that is necessary.