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America’s support of Israel is vital — now more than ever

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UPDATE: Many of us have already established our positions on support for Israel. Personally, I stand unequivocally with Israel—full stop. However, this op-ed is not intended for those who share my view or those who are firmly opposed. It is aimed at those who remain undecided, those who seek a nuanced international dialogue in conjunction with their support for Israel. This is not about choosing one side over another; it’s about supporting Israel while engaging in a conversation about the complexities of urban warfare and the role of international input. Urban warfare, as a form of asymmetric conflict, is inherently unconventional and challenging to comprehend. As John Spencer has emphasized, Israel has had to develop new battlefield protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to operate effectively within this unique terrain. When a nation seeks support from the international community, input from other nations becomes crucial.

Since October 7th, Israel has been plunged into a crisis that demands both our attention and action. As a rabbi, I’ve traveled to Israel twice since that tragic day—once to volunteer, and once to witness the devastation firsthand. The scale of loss is staggering. For me, Israel’s top priority must be the rescue and safe return of the hostages. Yet, as we acknowledge that military operations will result in collateral damage, we must ensure that the loss of innocent life remains our second highest priority. In this, America's role is crucial.

The hostages—civilians held by terrorists—are enduring unimaginable trauma, and Israel must do everything in its power to secure their release. This aligns with pikuach nefesh, the Jewish principle that preserving life overrides almost all other considerations. Still, the mission of rescuing the hostages cannot justify widespread destruction. Ensuring the safety of innocent people on all sides of this conflict is essential for Israel, not just strategically but morally.

America’s support for Israel, especially in this moment, must be resolute but also thoughtful. Historically, the U.S. has been Israel’s strongest ally, providing military, financial, and diplomatic backing. That partnership has helped Israel withstand threats, grow as a nation, and secure its future. But in this current conflict, American support should also reflect the shared values of democracy and human rights. While Israel defends itself, it must do so in a way that seeks to minimize harm to civilians. The U.S. can play a role in pushing for that balance.

This is a moment where ethics and military necessity intersect. Israel's security is non- negotiable, especially in the face of terrorist threats. But military action should always be proportional, with careful consideration for the loss of life. Israel is capable of walking this tightrope, but it’s essential that American leadership encourages them to uphold these standards, aligning security with compassion.

The American Jewish community is wrestling with this same tension. For decades, many American Jews have offered unconditional support for Israel, rooted in a deep connection to the land and the need for Jewish survival. But in recent years, there’s been a shift. Many, especially younger generations, are questioning Israel’s policies, particularly in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This doesn’t mean turning away from Israel but engaging in more critical conversations about its actions, while still standing firmly against terrorism.

We cannot ignore the growing divide within the American Jewish community, where progressive voices are demanding Israel adhere to the same human rights values they champion in other contexts. These concerns are real and important. Yet, it’s possible to support Israel’s right to defend itself while also holding it accountable to ethical standards. This dual approach—support coupled with honest critique—strengthens, rather than weakens, the bond between Israel and American Jews.

America’s involvement is more than just providing military aid or diplomatic cover. It’s about ensuring that Israel’s fight for survival doesn’t lead it down a path that betrays its core values. The principle of tohar haneshek—the purity of arms—demands that Israel’s military actions avoid unnecessary harm. It’s a concept deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, calling for restraint even in the heat of conflict. American influence, if used wisely, can help Israel stay true to this principle.

In a broader sense, America’s continued support for Israel must remain strong, but it also needs to reflect the complexities of the situation. This isn’t a black-and-white conflict, and American leadership should encourage Israel to seek not just victory but a path to lasting peace. The rescue of hostages is crucial, but so is preventing a cycle of violence that further destabilizes the region.

At the same time, America must recognize that support for Israel isn’t just about defense. It’s about protecting a democratic ally that shares common values of human rights and justice. While military might is necessary, it must be tempered by the moral responsibility to minimize harm to civilians—Israeli and Palestinian alike.

In the end, America’s support for Israel is essential not just for Israel’s survival, but for upholding the values we hold dear. This is a moment of reckoning, where the stakes are high, and the consequences of every decision are profound. The U.S. must stand by Israel, but also guide it in a way that ensures the preservation of life and the pursuit of peace. The hostages must come home, and this conflict must end with the preservation of the values that have always been at the heart of both nations’ aspirations.