The past two weeks that
have been the most challenging in my life, and I'm certain this
is true for many others as well.
I am heartbroken. I am in pain, shedding tears because of the
events of October 7th. However, I am also saddened because in hindsight, the
stories I was told in my youth were right. During my high school years, we
learned about antisemitism. I used to believe it couldn't be real, thinking
everyone was exaggerating. How could anyone hate me just because I was born to
a Jewish mother? Regrettably, now I am forced to realize that they were indeed
correct.
Even after the most heinous, brutal attack on civilians we've
witnessed in recent decades, there are still many who stand against Israel and
support Hamas – a group of ruthless murderers who have not only taken innocent
lives, including children, young people celebrating love and freedom,
grandmothers, but have also kidnapped so many.
The world's hypocrisy is glaring. No one wants to address the
situation in Gaza. Egypt and Jordan have closed their borders. The world
expects Israel to provide water and electricity to Gaza, but why? Why should we
support them? We evacuated Gaza in 2005, giving them ample time and resources
to develop the area with universities, water facilities, renewable energy
technology, hotels, and more. However, they chose to invest everything in
building up their capacity for terror. Why does the world turn a blind eye to
this? Why do they ignore that they indoctrinate toddlers and elementary school
children to hate and harm Jews when they grow up?
It matters not that the Jewish nation has contributed numerous
remarkable achievements to the world, including Nobel Prize winners. What have
the Palestinians accomplished?
Israel must confront and weaken Hamas; this evil must be
eradicated. Unfortunately, while Hamas invested in terror, it strategically
surrounded itself with civilians. Israel will make every effort to minimize
civilian casualties, but it won't be without its challenges. This is a
heartbreaking realization and it will inevitably result in many lives lost.
This struggle isn't only for Israel, but for every Jew worldwide and, in my
belief, for all humanity.
I witness what's happening in high schools and colleges in the
United States and I'm filled with anger. People are taking sides without
knowing - without caring about - all the facts, and the boards, principals, and
management of these institutions remain silent.
My family and I are safe. I have been drafted, and my family is
actively supporting the effort from morning till night. We face very trying
weeks ahead. Numerous unanswered questions linger: Will the battle in the north
escalate? What will transpire within Israel with the Israeli Arab community?
What will the aftermath be?
I am certain of this: We must rebuild this country, hold our
government accountable, and seize the opportunity to unite the Jewish world in
support of Israel.
To my friends in the United States and supporters at Jewish National Fund-USA: I want you to understand that our friendship and your support
for Israel provide me with the strength to endure this battle. Despite a flawed
government and a fractured society, we have embarked on this sacred mission.
The thought of leaving with my family and flying to the U.S. is
an option, but the understanding that I am fighting not just for my family, but
also for you, your children, and your grandchildren, gives me the resolve to
stand tall and complete the mission, even while holding my M-16 and flying in a
helicopter.
We will emerge victorious, and the world will witness the
unbreakable spirit of the Jewish people.
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Oren Hefetz is a proud Jewish National Fund-USA professional based in Israel. For the past several years, he has worked closely with the communities in the Central Negev to improve quality of life. Since October 7, he has been actively working to support the war efforts.
