Daily Archive

Israel faces a tough reality with enemies on nearly every side who openly call for its destruction, making secure borders an absolute necessity. Countries like Iran and groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas have not only talked about wiping Israel out but have acted on it with rocket attacks, border raids, and coordinated assaults like the one on October 7, 2023, which killed over 1,200 people. Some argue that walls and checkpoints hurt Palestinians by restricting their movement, and that’s a real concern. But these measures have proven effective, cutting down on terrorist attacks since the Second Intifada. Israel has to balance keeping its people safe with minimizing harm to others, and while it’s not perfect, strong borders with high-tech surveillance and intelligence are the best way to protect a nation under constant threat.

Taking out Hamas’s ability to wage war is crucial, not just for Israel’s safety but for any hope of a better future for Palestinians. Hamas has run Gaza since 2007, and its founding documents reject Israel’s existence entirely. They’ve fired thousands of rockets, over 12,000 since 2005, and built tunnels for attacks, often hiding among civilians. Critics say targeting Hamas risks innocent lives and could push more people toward extremism, which is a serious issue. But letting Hamas keep its weapons and control means more violence, less chance for peace, and Gaza staying stuck as a war zone instead of a place where people can build better lives. A focused effort to dismantle their military setup, alongside global help to rebuild Gaza with leaders who prioritize peace, is the tough but necessary path forward.

Keeping a strong security presence in Gaza is vital to stop new terrorist groups from taking root and to protect Israel’s way of life as a free, democratic nation in a region full of authoritarian regimes. Israel stands out with its open elections, independent courts, and free press, unlike many of its neighbors where power is tightly controlled. Some worry that staying involved in Gaza could make Israel look less democratic or anger Palestinians further, and that’s a valid point. But a smart security strategy, focused on gathering intelligence and stopping threats without overstepping, keeps Gaza from becoming a launchpad for attacks again, like it was under Hamas. Pairing this with efforts to support Palestinian self-rule and economic growth shows Israel’s commitment to both its values and stability, even when surrounded by those who want it gone.