My blog is both a space for pro-Israel information and a look at the more human side of life for Jews living in Yehuda and the Shomron (Judea and Samaria, referred to as the westbank). So I understand the desire by those of us living here and our friends around the world to show the positive side of Israel and its humanitarian actions, especially during times when Israel is fighting a war.
Videos of Israeli doctors treating very sick Arab babies are posted. Pictures of our humane treatment of prisoners are also shown. Long and beautifully written essays justifying our response to the rocket attacks are put up.
These are all well and good – but one thing really bugs me.
Sometimes the tone is too apologetic.
Not only do I think that we have nothing to apologize for, but I think it is dangerous to do so, both for those of us living in Israel and those in the Diaspora.
For those of us living in Israel, the desire to apologize shows a weakness in your own feeling that this is the Jewish homeland, and that not only do we have a right to live here, but we have a right to kill anyone who tries to kill us. Our enemies have picked up on this weakness, and the terrorism that we have suffered from is a direct result.
For those of you living in the Diaspora, take a look at the anti-Israel demonstrations. They are in most cases full of rabid anti-Semites, who will not care a bit for videos of Jewish doctors caring for Arab babies. A YouTube video is no protection against an angry mob. They have gone past the point of listening to reason, (if they ever did in the first place) and they want blood. In some places, especially in Europe, I fear that their hatred has already crossed a line, and will quickly turn to violence against Jews- in which case the best thing to do is to pack up and move to Israel as fast as you can. See this as your Kristallnacht.
For all of you – take a bit of advice. Stand up straight, and when someone asks why there are so many dead in Gaza and so few Jews dead in Israel, look them in the eye and say the following:
When the terrorists were busy launching rockets at Israel and using their own people as human shields, the Jews have built bomb shelters, warning systems, and state of the art medical facilities in order to protect their own.
We have trained one of the best armies in the world, and when the need arises, we use it.
Been there.
Done that.
When we say “Never Again” – we MEAN it.
No apologies necessary.
West Bank Mama 
Jan 11, 2009 @ 05:20:02
Very good post! Now I want to go back and reread my posts and make certain I was not apologetic!
Thanks.
Jan 11, 2009 @ 07:14:09
Well done.
Jan 11, 2009 @ 08:02:06
כל הכבוד לך
Jan 11, 2009 @ 17:22:06
Thank you – Well said. I only wish the USA (Northeastern)Rabbi’s with their synagogues that have been mostly focused on global warming & yoga (although nothing against yoga) would take their cue from you – and not be apologetic for Israel or Jewish people and NOT beg the world for acceptance – but rather be proud and self-loving! Then, I feel acceptance will come – or not!
I see that you really speak from the heart & it is therefore connected to my heart. Thank You!
Jan 11, 2009 @ 19:31:47
Absolutely!!
Jan 11, 2009 @ 22:35:44
Great post. Until recently, I had no idea that anti-semitism in Europe is as bad as it apparently is. Staggering. Please know that many folks here in the NW area of the U.S. love and support Israel.
Jan 11, 2009 @ 23:09:58
And so it is! Well said. Thank you!
Jan 12, 2009 @ 01:14:39
Right on. Well stated.
Jan 12, 2009 @ 15:08:10
Welcome to the world of ‘politically correct speech’. Thanks for all your information, as you know our news media is somewhat one sided. Keep safe Westbank Mama, I’m praying for your family.