I recently had the opportunity to share my perspective on Israel’s conflict with Hamas in an interview with Paul Calvert. As an Orthodox Jewish man living in Israel, I have a very personal connection to this war deeply impacting Israeli society.

When the Attacks Began

I first heard about the horrific October 7th attacks on southern Israel while visiting my son for the Sabbath. Hamas coordinated deadly missile strikes and raids, eventually killing over 1,500 Israelis, with many bodies still unidentified weeks later.

As an observant Jew, I did not check the news until after Shabbat ended on Saturday night. Even during Shabbat, military reserves were called up and security measures enacted in response to Hamas aggression.

Impact on My Family

With two sons and a son-in-law who previously served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), this war hits very close to home for me. My family members, now IDF reservists, have been deployed to areas near Gaza and the Lebanese border.

I constantly worry for their safety, having already attended funerals for soldiers killed in recent battles with Hamas. Their service shows how this conflict affects so many Israeli families.

The IDF’s Response

From what I have heard, the IDF has mobilized 300,000 reserve soldiers to counter Hamas attacks. I believe our troops are being properly equipped this time, unlike some past conflicts. Mobilizing reserves requires immense resources and preparation.

More equipment is always useful. You can contribute through Root Source here https://givebutter.com/israel-war-needs.

No Ceasefire Yet

I adamantly oppose any premature ceasefire, as do many supporters of Israel’s right to self-defense. In my assessment, Hamas has genocidal intentions on par with Nazi Germany. This necessitates Israel’s continued offensive until full military defeat and unconditional surrender, as in WWII.

I argue that the civilized world must back Israel’s campaign to decisively stop Hamas. Anything less will only prolong this conflict.

Long-Term Solutions

In my view, Israel made a mistake by withdrawing from Gaza in 2005. I believe fully resettling Gaza is the only path to sustainable peace, since IDF presence in settlements helps secure areas against militants.

I know most Christians worldwide recognize Israel’s defensive actions as justified, despite some calls for pacifism. My main prayer now is for the protection of IDF soldiers and Gazan civilians as we work to defeat Hamas.

I welcome those wanting an Israeli perspective on surviving and resolving this difficult conflict to reach out to me at RootSource.com.

Listen to the full interview here for more details.