Kesher Talk

In this topsy-turvy, irrational scenario, we might be tempted to lose faith in our cause. After all, can we be right and the whole world be wrong? And, even if we are convinced we are waging a just and justified battle, can we successfully take on virtually the entire international community?

The answer, on both counts, is a resounding yes. First, we have a long tradition of standing our ground on moral and ethical issues, even if we stand alone. Indeed, Abraham, the father of our nation, was known as a Hebrew, from the word Ivri, which means, "he who comes from the other side." Abraham stood on his side of the spiritual divide, smashing the idols of polygamy and converting a reluctant world to the truth of one God.

Later in our history, we rejected the pantheistic hegemony of the Greek empire, and rebelled against mighty Rome when it sought to crush our independence. And in this century alone, we heroically withstood the "War Against the Jews" fought by Hitler and his many accomplices, and established the State of Israel in the face of staggering odds. So we are no strangers to struggles.

Second, this is a war that we can, and shall, win. Deep down, the world - including the Arab world - understands the existential threat that Palestinian terror poses to the entire planet. It knows there is no honor among thieves - or terrorists - and that Israel will not be the sole or final victim of their barbaric crimes. Even France, whose national policy of capitulation and appeasement inspires the cowardly posture of the European Union, will not forever be spared an honored place on terror's "hit list" when it suits the terrorists' purpose.

Like most destructive forces, the plague of terrorism is not easily contained nor restricted to any one specific target, a fact that should not be lost on the entire civilized world. As America discovered in Afghanistan, opposition to the forces of good suddenly evaporates when it becomes apparent they are serious in confronting the forces of evil and preventing a world-wide cataclysm.

In the final analysis, we must demolish the terrorist infrastructure, despite the odds and despite the opposition, for it is the right thing to do - for us and for the world at large. Perhaps, in truly messianic times, the Jewish people will be seen as a light unto the nations, a beacon of hope and justice that will be universally acknowledged by the diverse peoples of the world. But until that glorious day arrives, we will just have to battle on, even if we battle alone.

posted by Howard @ 4/07/2002 05:36:36 PM